Weld County 4-H and FFA Dairy Heifer Replacement Project

The purpose of the program is to provide 4-H and FFA members an opportunity to:

  1. Learn how to select a dairy heifer that has the potential to be a good producing cow.
  2. Learn how to raise a good quality animal, demonstrating approved management principles.
  3. Offer for sale a top quality dairy replacement animal at the conclusion of the program.
  4. Give non-farm members the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the dairy industry.

The Weld County 4-H Dairy Advisory Council will oversee and assist in managing this project.

Eligibility

  1. Any duly enrolled Weld County 4-H or FFA member is eligible for this program.
  2. The member must enroll, or be enrolled, in a 4-H or FFA dairy cattle project.
  3. The member must specifically enroll and complete the Dairy Heifer Replacement Project (DHRP) Form for their project heifer by March 15th of the project year.

Requirements

  1. Members may enroll up to three (3) heifers each year. All nominated heifers may be shown, but you are limited to showing one (1) heifer in the DHRP class and to selling that same one (1) heifer. Members must designate their DHRP heifer on their Fair entry.
  2. Member must be the sole owner of the animal. A copy of the brand certificate must be submitted with enrollment. Two photos of the heifer, one of each side, must be included with the enrollment.
  3. The animal must be:
    • Born September 1-November, 2024 (21-23 months old at the Fair time).
    • From a registered sire (AI or natural breeding).
    • From a dam that is either registered or grade. Production records must accompany enrollment.
    • Positively identified by a 4-H Leader, FFA Advisor, Extension Agent, or member of the Council.
    • A minimum of 40 days pregnant as of March 1st. A certificate of pregnancy from a licensed veterinarian or other qualified individual must be turned in with enrollment. Heifers MUST be due to calve no earlier than September 1st and no later than November 30th.
  4. Any breed of dairy is acceptable. Heifers must be bred to a registered service sire (AI or natural).
  5. Heifers must be exhibited at the Weld County Fair. All heifers enrolled in this project will show in a separate “Dairy Replacement Heifer” class.
  6. Members are strongly encouraged to participate with their project heifer at the Colorado Dairy Youth Extravaganza, May 29-31, 2026 at Island Grove Park in Greeley.

Sale

  1. Heifers will be sold at the Weld County Fair.
  2. Heifers will be inspected and pregnancy checked at the Weld County Fair prior to the sale. Heifers will not be allowed to sell if:
    • They are not at least six (6) months pregnant,
    • They are not healthy or in good condition according to breed standards. Heifers are expected to meet the following height and weight measurements (measurements listed are for Holstein heifers; for other breeds contact the Weld County Extension Office):
      • 21 month old heifer – 1086-1372 lbs; 52-56” at withers
      • 22 month old heifer – 1148-1420 lbs; 52-57” at withers
      • 23 month old heifer – 1148-1420 lbs; 53-57” at withers
  3. Members will receive all proceeds from the sale less a five percent (5%) commission, if they have turned in a completed record book after the Fair.
  4. Members are encouraged to contact potential buyers for their animals. Buy back opportunities will be available for businesses that purchase animals.
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