WINNSBORO — It’s time to sign up for the 2013 4-H Pullet Project and an opportunity to join in the fun of raising chickens, either for the first time or as a veteran chicken grower.

To participate in this project, youth need to complete an application form, available through the local Clemson Extension Office, and pay a deposit of $35 for each 12 or $60 for each 25 chicks ordered. All applications are due by March 6, 2013.

Raising baby chicks from day one to egg laying age can be a rewarding experience for 4-H youth. This particular animal project is offered to youth ages of 5 to 19. Fairfield County is partnering with Newberry, Chester, Lancaster, York, Union, and Kershaw counties to increase the opportunities youth have to show. The project will be administered through the local Clemson Extension Office.

This is one of 4-H’s most popular projects and one that does not require too much time, or expense, other than feed and shelter. This year youth can either order multiples of 12 or 25 chicks to grow out over the summer. Chicks will be placed with the youth around the end of April. The three breeds of chicks are Golden Comets, Buff Orpingtons and Rhode Island Reds. All of these breeds are hearty, easy to raise and lay large brown eggs.

The deposit will be returned to the youth in the fall after they satisfactorily complete the project and return five pullets (for those choosing 25) or three pullets (for those raising 12) for the Fall Auction. Proceeds from the auction will help finance next year’s pullet project. All remaining pullets are the 4-H members to keep. Youth will also have the opportunity to show their birds at area showmanship shows.

Youth who are not already members of 4-H will be required to pay an additional membership fee of $10. With the membership, youth will receive a T-shirt and have the opportunity to participate in other 4-H projects offered for the year including clubs, projects, and numerous summer camps.