Maryland 4-H Horse Program

		Horse Project Record Books What is a 4-H project? A 4-H project is a subject or a topic that each 4-Her learns more about by attending 4-H club meetings and educational workshop, and by working with adult leaders and other 4-H members. Selecting the horse as a project allows a 4-H'er to learn more about how horses are properly cared for and ridden. Why do I need to complete a project record book? A record book is a useful tool to help a 4-H'er learn more about the horse. Project records allow an individual to organize and maintain vital information about their horses including veterinary and farrier records, feeding, deworming, and immunization programs, related expenses, training history, and showing achievements. The record book also helps 4-Her's recognize just how much they've accomplished with their horse project over the last year. Completion of the 4-H horse project record books is often a requirement prior to participation in some county, state, and national events. How do I prepare a record book? Your annual 4-H record book has three main components: a summary record, a 4-H story, and your project record. The summary forms are universal to all 4-H clubs in Maryland, and track your project accomplishments, awards, offices, community service activities, and other club participation over the years you are an active member in Maryland 4-H. The story introduces your personal life and is a way for you to express your goals and growth over the course of the year, from your own point of view. Finally, the project record is specific to animal/activity--in this case, horses. This record contains a detailed description of your animal(s), a pre-year plan, financial, training, and health management records, and a progress summary at the end of the year. This project reflects good standard business management practices and recordkeeping skills for any horse-related organization. Record book guidelines and other publications, from Maryland 4-H. Project listings and resources, from Maryland 4-H. More Information: To find out more information about 4-H record books, contact your county 4-H Extension Educator.