Join Madison County 4-H for a fun opportunity to learn about chick care, handling, showmanship and more!

In this 6 month program, youth will participate in workshops where they will learn how to raise, care for, handle and show their animals. The project will conclude with youth showing their chicken in the Madison County Fair!

The Madison County 4-H Pullet Project is open to youth ages 5-18. Youth must enroll as 4-H members. Registration is open until February 27th.

Getting started:

• Register at go.ncsu.edu/pullet (participants must also be enrolled as 4-H members for 2026 at v2.4honline.com) 
• Registration fee: $40 due via cash or check to Madison County 4-H. Note: Youth who are returning to this program with last year's birds, or additional siblings who wish to share birds, may register for $15. Details in the rules and registration.
• Participation Contract: Participants & Parent/Guardian must agree to the 2026 Madison County 4-H Pullet Project Rules in the registration form.
• Participants will receive 3-4 chicks (pullets) each, of mixed laying breed varieties. 
• Youth are expected to attend ALL educational programs (see schedule below). Please mark your calendar!
• Youth must participate in Showmanship at the Madison County Fair!

Schedule:

• February 27, 2026 - Final date for program registration and fee due
• March 23, 2026 (5:30-7:00 pm) - Animal Care Workshop (Brooding, Housing, Feeding, and Best Management Practices) 
• Week of April 20, 2026 - Chick Pick-up 
• July, 2026 (Date & Time TBD) - Poultry Showmanship Clinic & Service Project
• By September 15th, 2026 - Attend at least 10 hours of Madison County 4-H Programs in addition to 4-H Pullet Project events.
• September 24th, 2026 (4:00-6:00pm) - Check in birds for show at Madison County Fair with NCDA Blood Testing (required for both the Madison County Fair and the 4-H Pullet Show)
• September 25, 2026 (5:30 pm-7:30pm) – 2026 Madison County 4-H Pullet Show

4-H Agent: Misty Varnell, misty_varnell@ncsu.edu, 828-649-2411