Washington County 4-H Newsletter
February 8, 2024
Welcome to our County Newsletter! The most up-to-date information about events and activities going on in Washington County 4-H. Please pass along to friends and family that might be interested in attending a 4-H event. You will also receive the monthly Clover Update at the beginning of each month highlighting regional and state events.
4-H Family Tips
Things to do to get off to a good start
Enroll/Re-enroll youth for the 2022-2023 4-H year through 4honline. (4-H year runs from Oct. 1 - Sept. 30) To participate fully in county fair and state events you must be enrolled by May 15.
- Enroll/Re-enroll as an adult volunteer. Complete the process now so you are ready to step in when you want to or are needed. Volunteer application.
- Pay County membership fee $25/youth or $100 max/family (youth only). Scholarships available.
- Once your enrollment is complete you can start registering for events and activities. Save time and complete the enrollment process now. 4honline
- All links and information about enrollment/fees can be found at the end of this newsletter.
Still looking for a club to join?? Contact the club to confirm their meeting place and time. Feel free to attend multiple club meetings to find the right fit for your family. Once you have decided what club to join, please contact the club to make sure you are on their email list.
Feel like you missed something? All Family Newsletters are posted on our county website under resources.
Upcoming county events/activities
Ambassador Social - Feb. 8 - LAST DAY TO REGISTER
Have you ever asked yourself, “What are Ambassadors? What do they do? Why should I join?”
If you are in 7th grade or above, join us at Stillwater Bowl for a chance to learn more about what Ambassadors do and try your luck at a strike! We will meet from 5-7 PM at the Stillwater Bowl on Friday, February 9th. Dinner and bowling will be included! Deadline to register is February 8.
The Ambassador program is for all 7th-12th graders who wish to be a leader in Washington County 4-H!
Creative Arts Night - March 1 (Reg. due Feb. 20)
Join us for Creative Arts Night on Friday, March 1 at Hooley Hall starting at 5 pm sharp! We plan to finish up by 8:00 pm. We could use a few parent volunteers, please indicate on the registration form if you can help. Please fill out the form below, ranking the classes according to your interest. Your favorite class should be #1 and your least favorite # 6. You will be taking three of the classes during the evening, we will try to get you into the ones you like.
Registration Deadline is Tuesday, February 20
Calling all aspiring Graphic Designers! - March 1
The County Fair Food Stand Committee would like to have advertising graphics done by you! The following posters are on the wish list.
Ice Pops (Otter Pops)
Breakfast at Hooley Hall
Daily Breakfast Special*
Daily Lunch/Dinner Special*
Soft Pretzels
*Specials will be the Foodie Challenge participants and include:
Peppered Maple Bacon Egg Sammie
Blueberry Belgian Banger, Grilled Chicken Salad with Miso dressing
Cheeseburger Salad Bowl
Pierogis with Brats & Kraut
Or you can leave a 4 x 6 space for a food photo.
Please have your final graphics completed on 8.5 x 11 paper and bring it to Creative Arts Night Friday, March 1 beginning at 5:00 pm to be judged by your 4-H peers! The artwork will be then scanned for reproduction during the County Fair. Think about legibility, ease of read from a distance and walking by, catching people’s eyes, promoting food sales and 4-H. Please have a spot for hours to be applied for Breakfast and Daily Specials
Cloverbud Workshop - April 27
Save the date for our next Cloverbud Workshop, scheduled for April 27th from 9 AM - Noon at TBD. Join the Washington County 4-H Ambassadors for a fun-filled day this spring!
STEM
Hike with Wild Rivers Conservancy - Feb. 19
Ice Fishing CANCELLED, but join us for a hike and learn about how road salt affects our waterways! Warm temps may have melted the ice, but we can still get outdoors and have fun learning about the beautiful St. Croix Valley! Please join us on Monday, February 19th from 10:30 - Noon at Valley View Park near Bayport. We will go on a naturalist hike with Wild Rivers Conservancy and do a science experiment to learn about how road salt affects our water and the creatures that rely on clean fresh water (including us!) Open to grades K+
Free (donations to Wild Rivers Conservancy accepted onsite)
Register here and contact Ashton at kules010@umn.edu with any questions.
Solar Eclipse Tips - March 7
Join Washington County 4-H to learn about the upcoming solar eclipse, what we'll see in Minnesota, and how to safely view it!
Thursday, March 7
5:30pm -7pm
Hooley Hall
Grades 3+
$ Free!
Register: z.umn.edu/4-Heclipsetips
If you’re interested in volunteering with STEM programming, please contact Ashton!
Animal Science
Interested in Pigeon Racing? - Feb. 11
The introductory meeting to Pigeon Racing will be this Sunday, Feb. 11, at 3:00 pm. This meeting will be held at Augustine’s, their address is; 2490 Manning Ave. N., Lake Elmo. This meeting will be approximately an hour long. If you know of others interested in participating, please invite them! All are welcome!
Market Beef and Dairy Steer ID - Due Feb. 15
Market Beef and Dairy Steers need to be tagged (4-H tag) and Identified in 4honline by February 15th. Information was emailed out to those enrolled in the beef project in January, the county letter can be found here.
Dog Workshop - March 16 (Reg. due Mar. 8)
Join us on Saturday, March 16 from 1-3 PM at The Greater Dog for a workshop on nosework, tricks, and engagement games! Come learn about the dog project from our fabulous team of dog trainers and youth leaders, and step away with the skills needed to start bonding and training your four-legged friend. All youth in grades 3+ are welcome to attend; there is no cost for participants. Deadline to register is Friday, March 8.
Llama - Alpaca project meetings starting - March 12
4-H members have an opportunity to learn and work with Llama’s, thanks to the generosity of Dan Whittaker. Project meetings will be held on Tuesday, March 12 and Tuesday, March 26 at Hooley Hall on the fairgrounds beginning at 7:00 pm. Dan will introduce the llama/alpaca project along with basic terminology and care of the animals prior to working with the live animals on his farm later in the spring. If you are interested, please contact Dan directly at; llamadan@aol.com or Ann Church at; churc109@umn.edu If any of these meetings are canceled due to weather, a message will be left at; 651-430-6809.
Performing Arts
Arts-In Director Application - Due February 23
We are now accepting applications for the Arts-In Director position for our 2024 show season! This is a paid position that works with the Performing Arts Development Committee and student directors to write the script, select music, and put together all aspects of the Arts-In encampment. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and previous Arts-In experience is preferred. Applications are due to the Extension office no later than February 23, 2024. Contact Megan at slate187@umn.edu with any questions. Application can be found here!
Student Director Applications - Due March 15
Calling all Arts-In members - Do you want to play a vital role in the development of this year’s show? Are you interested in planning the encampment and taking on a leadership role? Then the Student Director position is for you! Interested members should have prior Arts-In experience, and have completed 9th grade. Deadline to apply is Friday, March 15. Reach out to Megan at slate187@umn.edu with any questions!
Performing Arts Night - April 19
The annual Performing Arts Night will be held on Friday, April 19th at Oak-Land Middle School Auditorium from 6-9 PM. The night will consist of Share the Fun, One Act Play, and Talent Acts. We know there is a lot of talent here in Washington County - showcase your skills individually or as a group at the Performing Arts Night!
REMINDER - All Performing Arts projects will be judged on April 19th, there will be no Performing Arts judging on General Project Entry Day. Don’t miss your chance to qualify for the State Fair!
Share the Fun Guidelines & Registration
One Act Play Guidelines & Registration
Talent Guidelines & Registration
Contact Megan Slater at slate187@umn.edu with any questions!
Youth Leadership Opportunities
February Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador update
State Ambassador Ebrahim shares about the winter service challenge. He also reflects on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and talks about Black History Month. Learn more.
Become a 4-H Ag Ed Leader in the Classroom!
Are you a teen with a passion for agriculture and a desire to make a difference in your community? If so, we invite you to join our 4-H Ag Ed Leader in the Classroom program and become a youth teacher, sharing your enthusiasm for agriculture with elementary age youth.
What is an 4-H Ag Ed Leader in the Classroom?
Explore ag education and gain valuable skills as a youth teacher.
Participate in online training sessions and receive supplies to teach elementary age groups about the journey from feed to food, focusing on cheese production from the farm to our tables.
Who is Eligible?
Youth in grades 6 and up
What Will You Gain?
Skills to share and teach your passion with youth.
Learn about effective teaching methods, hands-on learning, classroom management, leadership, and communication skills.
Whether you're interested in a career as an educator or just passionate about agriculture, this experience is for you!
What is the Commitment?
Attend 4 one-hour virtual training sessions in March.
Teach in 3 classrooms or at summer camps (to be determined).
Additional Opportunities:
Attend the Change Lives, Teach Ag conference in March (optional).
Participate in the annual 4-H Ag Ed Leaders retreat in November on the University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus.
Explore ag education and advocacy as a potential career path.
Participant Timeline for 2024:
March 7, 14, 21 and 28, 7-8 p.m.: Online virtual training sessions (required to view, recordings available)
March 8: Change Lives, Teach Ag Conference at Ridgewater College in Willmar (optional)
April 15 - May 15: 4-H Youth Leaders teach in at least 3 classrooms or present at summer 4-H events
May 20: Online Wrap Up/Celebration
November 1-2: 4-H Ag Ed Leaders Retreat, St. Paul
Don't miss this chance to make a positive impact, enhance your leadership skills, and share your love for agriculture with the next generation! Let's cultivate a love for agriculture together! If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Ann at; churc109@umn.edu We need to commit no later than Feb. 15th, so a quick turnaround!
Multiple 2024 Minnesota 4-H scholarships are available
Extension development and Minnesota 4-H offer several scholarships for college-bound 4-H youth, as well as a workforce training scholarship for an adult 4-H alumni or volunteer. Over $20,000 is awarded annually through a competitive application process. Minnesota 4-H scholarship online applications are now available. Applications require two letters of recommendation, with one being from an Extension educator. Please ask your Extension educator well before the deadline, last minute requests are frowned upon.
Visit the 4-H scholarship web page for detailed information about the various scholarships available and online applications. Direct questions to Fun Fun Cheng at, chen0169@umn.edu, 612-624-8132.
Submission deadline: April 1.
Washington County submission deadline: June 1.
Washington County Scholarships also available on our website.
Ambassador Registration
Don’t forget to register to be a 2023-2024 Washington County 4-H Ambassador! County Ambassadors are youth enrolled in grades 7-13 who want to take their leadership skills to the next level. Some opportunities include:
Planning and leading cloverbud workshops, service projects, and social events
Serving as a counselor at workshops and day camps
Running the Ambassador Booth at the County Fair
Serving as a spokesperson for the Washington County 4-H Program
Other outreach opportunities as assigned
Meeting new friends throughout the county and state!
If these opportunities interest you, fill out the Ambassador Application here! If you have questions, contact Megan Slater at slate187@umn.edu or Abbey Rademacher at abbeyrademacher25@gmail.com for more information.
Creative Arts Night
- March 1 - County wide Creative Arts Night @ Hooley Hall (Registration in this newsletter!)
- March 1 - Graphic Designs for 4-H Food Stand due
Dog Project
- March 16 - Dog Project Workshop - 1-3 PM @ The Greater Dog, 1815 Greeley St. S #3, Stillwater, MN 55082. Please pre-register by March 8.
- April 2 - 4-H Dog Orientation, learn about how dog training will work in Washington County. Turn in your Dog ID paperwork and training fees.
- April 9 - Dog Demo Night. Learn about the different classes offered through live demonstrations.
- April 16 - Dog Training starts
- April 21 - Tentative start date for Dog Agility.
- July 27-28 - County 4-H Dog Show
Horse
- March 11 - Horse Project Development Committee Mtg. - 6:30 PM Stillwater Government Center
- June 9 - 12 - Washington County Horse Camp (Registration emailed to horse members early April)
Livestock
- February 15 - Market Beef/Dairy Steer ID deadline
- March 12 & 26 - Llama Project Mtg. - 7:00 PM @ Washington County Fairgrounds
- May 15 - Animal ID deadline (Dog, Horse, Llama, Rabbit, Dairy, Breeding Beef, Sheep, Swine, Goat (market & dairy) and leased poultry).
- June 21 - In person Livestock Quality Assurance Training - Dee's in Northfield, MN (More details coming)
Performing Arts
- April 19 - Performing Arts Night - Performing Arts Night will be held on Friday, April 19 at Oak-Land Middle School Auditorium from 6-9 PM. Now is the time to start brainstorming your One Act Plays and Share the Fun skits with your clubs! All Performing Arts performance and non-performance acts will once again be judged on this night. Reach out to Megan Slater at slate187@umn.edu or Avis Peters at avisapeters@hotmail.com with any questions.
Save the Dates - Arts-In
Arts-In is a 30-minute original musical performed daily at the Washington County Fair and twice at the Minnesota State Fair. The show is put together over the 4-day encampment held at the Washington County Fairgrounds in July. The cast consists of performers, band members, and the technical crew. The 2024 dates include: July 7 - auditions, July 14-17 - encampment and July 31-Aug. 4 - performances at the county fair. Additional performances and dates will be listed on the registration form. Student director applications are due March 15.
STEM
- Feb. 19 - Hike with Wild River Conservancy (Registration in this newsletter)
- Mar. 7 - Solar Eclipse Tips (Registration in this newsletter)
-
April TBD - Seed Bomb Project at multiple locations
May 9 -Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy Center Tour
June 25 - Pond Mucking with Wild Rivers Conservancy
July 17 - Field Trip to the Bell Museum
Summer Camps
- June 10-12 - Our popular 4-H Summer Resident Camp will take place at Baker Outdoor Learning Center. Grades 3-8. Registration and Camp Counselor Applications coming soon! Reach out to Megan Slater at slate187@umn.edu with any questions!
- July 8-11 - 4-H Summer Day Camps will be held at the Washington County Fairgrounds, Day Camps are open to grades K-6. Registration available late May/early June.
Washington County Fair
- July 1 - County fair registration deadline. Final selection of projects and animals need to be entered in FairEntry by this date.
- July 27 - 4-H General project judging (Saturday)
- July 27-28 - County 4-H Dog Show
- July 31- Aug. 4 - Washington County Fair
Youth enrollment and animal ID deadline
- May 15, 2024
- Participation is limited after May 15 (Not eligible for champions, auction, premiums or state trips) Blue, red and white ribbons only.
Adult Volunteer Opportunities
Shooting Sports Certified Leaders Needed!
We are in need of additional Certified Trainers for the 2024 Season! We have a great group of Trainers, but with our growing program, we can use some additional help! Minnesota 4-H requires that all volunteers become ‘screened’ which is a 3 step process: How to become a screened 4-H Volunteer!
You will find information on how to become a Certified Trainer here: How to become a Certified Trainer Trainings are held throughout the state. Redwood Falls has a training coming up on Feb. 10th. We are hopeful that there will be more opportunities to attend training closer to Washington County in the coming months.
Certified Trainer classes are offered in the disciplines of archery, rifle/pistol, shotgun, muzzleloading, and wildlife. Currently, our county could use extra help in the disciplines of archery, and shotgun. We also need a Certified Wildlife Coordinator. Our 4-H program will cover the cost of the class. If this is something you would consider, please contact Ann @ churc109@umn.edu
Minnesota 4-H 'Deep Dive' volunteer development webinar series
Minnesota 4-H is committed to creating inclusive learning environments for all youth. Attend one or both of the two remaining deep dive volunteer webinars to explore a focused topic and continue to build your comfort level in working with people with disabilities. Remaining webinars will take place Feb. 27 and March 21. Learn more and register.
Statewide Events
In-Person Opportunities
2024 Engineering Design Challenge
It's time for the 2024 Engineering Design Challenge! Gather a team and put your thinking cap on. Learn more at https://extension.umn.edu/.../4-h-engineering-design...
If interested in coaching a team, please reach out to Ashton Kulesa at kules010@umn.edu
Date set for 2024 4-H/FFA crop scouting contest, begin forming your teams today!
Take on this challenge and form a 4-H/FFA crop scouting team! Teams can be made up of youth in grades 6+ from one or multiple counties. We’ll offer another division to give youth in grades 3-5 an opportunity to participate. Contact your local Extension office if you want help finding a team. If you don't have a team but still want to participate, we have coaches ready to coach youth across Minnesota who don't have anyone else participating in their county (this includes both the plant science project bowl and crop scouting). If you're not sure what crop scouting is, or if you want to gather a team, we encourage you to participate in virtual 4-H plant science trivia nights, and the 4-H plant science project bowl on April 6. 4-H/FFA crop scouting registration opens on May 1 and the state event will take place Friday, July 26 at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul Campus. Learn more about 4-H plant science virtual teams. Learn more and sign up for crop scouting.
Virtual Learning Opportunities
4-H Explorers in Ag Around the World
Youth in grades 6-8 are invited to join us as we explore agriculture around the world. You aren't going to want to miss this agriculture exploration as we travel virtually to three countries in this self-guided program with opportunities to connect with people in other countries. A kick-off event will be held via Zoom on Monday, Feb. 19 at 8 p.m. From there, you’ll be given access to a Google site to explore a country each week. A guide will be provided to help you explore a farming practice within each country. 4-H Ag Ambassadors will check in weekly to discuss what you’re learning along the way. This year guest speakers will share more about agriculture in the countries participants are exploring. More info will be sent out upon registration. All guest speakers will be recorded for later viewing. Registration deadline: Feb. 12. Learn more and register.
Super Sitters
We are excited to bring you our Super Sitters Virtual Series this winter! Our goal is for you to walk away with the knowledge to be a Super Sitter Hero! Dates: February 20, 21, 22, 26, and 29 from 5:45 pm- 7pm for youth in grades 5th and up. Registration deadline is February 15. This is a FREE workshop! https://z.umn.edu/Supersittersclinic
Tasty Tuesdays
Come toss around some flour with us as we create a variety of breads that you can enjoy on their own or partner up with pastas, chilis, and soups, including Minnesota's famous wild rice soup! You might find a dessert bread to add as a treat! We'll learn about the mysterious chemical reactions that are part of making these bountiful breads. This series will bring lots of hands-on learning, and you won't be able to keep your hands off the dough!
Sessions will be held virtually from 5:45 - 6:45 p.m. on the following Tuesdays: Feb. 13, 27; March 5, 12, 19; April 2, 16.
For youth in grades K-13. There are no deadlines for this series.
Wildlife Wednesdays
Have you ever looked out your window and wondered about the animals that share the same environment as you do? How do they stay warm in the winter? Why do some of our winged friends fly south when the weather changes and some hang around? Discover the wonderful world of wildlife around you with Wildlife Wednesdays! Join us, virtually, as we explore and uncover the fascinating lives of the wildlife.
Sessions are held virtually on Wednesdays from 7 pm - 8pm on the following dates: January 31; February 7, 21, 28 ; March 6, 13, 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17 and 24.
For more information: https://z.umn.edu/WildlifeWednesdaysWinter2024
Register for statewide video workshop: 4-H next level video creation
This 3-week online program for youth in grades 8+ will make your movies better. Learn to use a variety of shots and angles, editing theory, and how to create mood with sound and music. Then, create a video with your new skills! When: March 19, March 26, and April 2 from 5 - 6 p.m. on Zoom. Cost is $15, scholarships available from the state video committee. Registration deadline: March 13. Learn more and register.
Winter wonders: Explore plant growth and roots with 4-H Science Sprouts!
Discover how gravity influences plant growth and observe roots in action! Join us for an exciting winter series of 4-H Science Sprouts. This opportunity is open to youth in grades 3+ who are interested in plants and science. Online sessions will take place Feb. 26 and March 25 from 5 to 5:30 p.m. We'll explore how gravity affects plant life and delve into the fascinating world of root growth. We'll cover agronomy and horticulture topics tailored to the season using STEM. While there's no cost for the program, we'll share a list of optional supplies for those who want to try hands-on experiments at home. We'll send the list out a week before each gathering. Let's explore the wonders of science together in this engaging winter series! Learn more and register.
Virtual plant science trivia nights are back!
Do you love plants and want to have some fun? Join us for virtual plant science trivia nights! Our next session is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 7:30 to 8 p.m. Test your plant knowledge and learn new facts while playing interactive games. No experience is necessary, just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm! Learn more and register.
Congratulations
Food Revue Results
Food Revue was held on Saturday, Feb. 5! Congratulations to all the 4-H’ers who participated in Food Revue! It was great to see so many budding chefs!
Sr. Grand Champion - Olivia Majeski
Sr. Reserve Champion - Aubrey Delaney
Honorable Mention - Calissa Newton
Jr. Grand Champion - Nevia Sleiman
Jr. Reserve Champion - Hazel Dahl
Honorable Mention - Mackenzie Delaney
Many thanks to Kim and Nik Bjerke for hosting the Egg Workshop during Food Revue!
Foodie Challenge Results
Last weekend, Washington County 4-H held our second annual Fair Foodie Challenge! This event inspires 4-H'ers to use their creativity and kitchen skills to craft a daily special that can be served during county fair. Categories included breakfast and lunch/supper. Contestants plated, served, and presented their creations at Hooley Hall in a style similar to culinary contests you may have seen on TV.
Judges included members of the food stand committee, Megan Newcomb, Bob Hervig, and Dan Lewis. We also had a special guest judge from Pioneer Press, Mary Divine! Winners will work with the food stand committee in the coming months to learn about food safety, product sourcing, service, and more.
Please join us in congratulating our four winners and be sure to try their new and exciting dish at the Washington County Fair this summer!
Roxy Vassar - Peppered Maple Bacon Egg Sammie
Aemilia Wollak - Blueberry Belgian Banger, Grilled Chicken and Miso Salad
Aubrey Delaney - Cheeseburger Salad Bowl
Tyler Egler - Pierogis with Brats & Kraut
The Foodie Challenge was also in the Pioneer Press a few weeks ago. Here's a link
https://www.twincities.com/2024/01/21/washington-county-fair-foodie-challenge/
Congratulations to Wyatt Herman and Colton Herman for being selected to serve on the Minnesota 4-H Animal Science Youth Leadership Team!
Minnesota 4-H is excited to announce the development of the animal science youth leadership team. This is a new initiative to bring youth voice to 4-H animal science programming.
Youth team members in grades 8 and up will have the opportunity to plan, implement and evaluate a variety of animal science programs while exploring their passions and practicing leadership skills. They will also serve as positive role models for Minnesota 4-H and the animal science program. This experience will offer an opportunity to network with peers, mentors and industry professionals.
Wyatt and Colton have been selected to share their experience and voice on the founding leadership team!
The 2024 team is made up of members from across the state in all five regions:
Ernest J. Big Stone County, Abby H. Chisago, Laura L. Crow wing County, Mikayla S. Isanti, Allison V. Kandiyohi, Ellianna S. Mille Lacs, Maddie H. Morrison, Reuben D. Mower County, Anna R. Olmsted, Maggie M. Olmsted, Natalie B. Ottertail- West, Amelia T. Renville, Molly A. Rice, Tavis B. Rice, Grant K. Rice, Wyatt H. Washington, Colton H. Washington
The team had their first meeting in January and identified areas of focus which included education, recruitment, and expanded opportunities for 4-H youth.
The animal science youth leadership team is one of several 4-H opportunities available to Minnesota youth interested in animal science programs.
Thank you's
Thank you to Lisa Kalka for coordinating Horse Project Learning Day! We had a great turnout of youth who came to hear about all the opportunities in the Horse Project.
Club Corners
Happy Hornets 4-H Club
The Happy Hornets met tonight for a short business meeting, followed by an arts and crafts night. The kids did alcohol ink tiles, weaving, wood burning, and a painting project. Keep your eyes peeled for some of these at the county fair!
Calling all club reporters or secretaries!
Please send a short report about your club's activities. Email Kathy at eber0002@umn.edu after you have had your monthly meeting or an event! Include 1-3 photos if you can. Thank you!
4-H Event cancellations based on weather
Staff will evaluate weather conditions and make a decision as to whether events will be canceled. Decisions to cancel an event will be based on;
• Forecasted low temperature and wind chill
• Total predicted snowfall
• The ability to safely operate vehicles (ice, snow, visibility)
• If area schools are canceled
To communicate a last minute cancellation, the staff leading the event will update their phone message to reflect the change of plans.
University of Minnesota Extension
Families and youth
University of Minnesota Extension works across the lifespan. We create and support positive non-formal learning opportunities for youth. We foster resilient, healthy and secure futures for families and seniors. Extension works with Minnesotans to make informed decisions leading to better health and well-being. Learn more at: https://extension.umn.edu/families-and-youth
Food, health and nutrition
University of Minnesota Extension improves food literacy, physical activity, food safety and healthy food access for Minnesotans and the food service industry. Learn more at: https://extension.umn.edu/food-health-and-nutrition
Yard and garden
The best plants and gardening practices for Minnesota gardeners, homeowners and hobbyists to grow healthy lawns, landscapes and gardens. Learn more at: https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden
Re-enroll now!
Families are encouraged to enroll/re-enroll early to get the most out of 4-H in the coming year. The most important part of re-enrolling is updating your information. Maybe you have a new email, new projects to add, changing to a different club, updating the grade you are in or any health updates. All of this and more can be done though your family account in 4honline. https://v2.4honline.com/
Remember you must re-enroll yearly to participate in 4-H! If you have any problems with registrations or need more information on enrollment please contact our office by email at mnext-washington@umn.edu or phone at 651-430-6800. While the 4-H year is a year-round organization, you must be enrolled BEFORE May 15th to avoid any penalties. This is also the deadline that all animals must be identified in your family account.
Enrollment fee
As you will notice, shortly (perhaps a day or two) after you enroll online you are approved. Monthly email reminders are sent to families to pay their membership fee. Membership fees help keep our programs affordable for all, please pay your membership fee or fill out a scholarship form below. We accept checks/cash at any time. Sorry no credit cards.
Washington County has a yearly enrollment fee of $25.00 per member (youth only) or $100 max per family for 4 or more children. We ask that you please send payment to our office or use the drop box at the main entrance of the Stillwater Government Center in a clearly marked envelope.
Checks should be made out to Washington County 4-H and sent to the following address:
Washington County 4-H
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
**For those using online banking, please be sure to include Washington County 4-H as checks made out to just Washington County go directly to the property tax office**
We don't want anyone to miss out so if you need help, please just let us know by completing a scholarship form.
Order your Washington County 4-H T-shirt today!
Show your 4-H pride with our new 2023-2024 t-shirt! This year’s design is printed on heather gray.
Youth who have paid their yearly enrollment fee can order a shirt for $10. Adults shirts are $20.
Use this link to order shirts for you and your family: z.umn.edu/Washington4-Hshirts
Code of Conduct update
Consent to the code of conduct is part of enrollment. The code of conduct for youth, parents and volunteers has been updated to prohibit the possession or use of marijuana.
Roles of Local Youth Educators
Ann Church - Livestock (Beef, Dairy, Llama, Sheep, Swine, Poultry, Rabbit), Horse, Shooting Sports, Federation, Community Clubs, Fair, Charters and Finance, Grant writing, Foods & Creative Arts projects.
Megan Slater - Youth Teaching Youth, Ambassadors, Performing Arts, Resident/Day Camps, Dog, Goat, Cloverbud.
Ashton Kulesa - STEM, Project Workshops, New Families, Food Stand, Outreach and Libraries.
Contact information is listed below.
Ann Church
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
(651) 430-6809
churc109@umn.edu
Megan Slater
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
(651) 430-6805
slate187@umn.edu
Ashton Kulesa
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
(651) 430-6807
Kathy Erf
Principal Office & Administrative Specialist
(651) 430-6800 or (651) 430-6803
eber0002@umn.edu
Washington County 4-H
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
(We are located in the Stillwater Government Center)
Office hours - Please call ahead as staff hours do vary.
8:00am-4:30pm (Monday-Thursday)
Friday by appointment
651-430-6800 or mnext-washington@umn.edu
© 2024, Regents of the University of Minnesota. University of Minnesota Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this publication/material is available in alternative formats upon request. Direct requests to 612-624-2116.