Jackson Journal
April 2024
County Updates
April is going to be amazing!
April showers bring sunshine right? At least that is what it seemed like this week!
We are THREE months away from one of the biggest events 4-H co-hosts and participates in - the Jackson County Fair!
Committees have been meeting and plans are being put into place to make sure we have a fair that is enjoyable for all youth, their exhibits, and the community members who attend this showcase of 4-H project exhibits.
Speaking of 4-H projects and exhibits, we are curious if you know the difference? Answer the polling questions below to see if you can determine the difference between a project and and exhibit! Answers will be revealed in the May Jackson Journal!
April is the perfect time to start thinking about what project areas you would like to exhibit it. Some helpful tips are
- Identify what you have already learned and created for school or for an extracurricular activity.
- Use a project talk/demonstration that you gave in your club meeting as an exhibit for the fair.
- Play an instrument or sing or dance? You can showcase your skills during Presentation Day Judging.
4-H Project Record books (z.umn.edu/JacksonCo4HRecords) can help you plan out and keep track of your project learning! Start a 4-H record now to help keep track of your plans, expenses, and experiences within your project area of choice. You can use your records as a reflection piece for your exhibits during judging. Better to start them know than wait until after the fair! For more information about 4-H project areas visit the MN 4-H Project page: z.umn.edu/projectsin4H
Feel free to contact the office if you have question or need help determining what project area your exhibit fits in. The Jackson County 4-H Premium Book will be coming out by the end of April so be on the watch for that resource!
Just a heads up - The Jackson County Extension Office will be CLOSED Wednesday, April 17, for a Regional Staff Development Day.
Caitlyn and Jazlyn
What a 4-H'er creates or shows to showcase their learning.
What a 4-H'er enrolls, studies, and keeps records in.
Join the Jackson County 4-H Remind Groups!
Want text reminders about upcoming events, deadlines, or project area specific info?
Join all or some of the following Remind Groups:
- Jackson 4-H Families - generic county and state 4-H info that all 4-H families need to know.
- Text: @4hinjackco to the number 81010
- Jackson 4-H Animal Science - info related to 4-H Animal Science
- Text: @j4hansci to the number 81010
- Jackson 4-H General Projects - info related to 4-H General Projects
- Text: @j4hgeneral to the number 81010
- Jackson 4-H Ambassadors - youth (gr. 6+) and their parents/guardians
- Text: @jacksonamb to the number 81010
- Jackson Co. 4-H SWIM Team (Jackson Location) - all info related to the Seeing Wellness in Motion Program
- Text: @jswim4h to the number 81010
Club and 4-H Member Information
Welcome New 4-H Members and Volunteers!
Are you new to 4-H or just want to fresh your knowledge on what 4-H has to offer? Check out the New Member Resources Folder, (z.umn.edu/JacksonNewMemberResources) where you can find a great outline of the program, requirements, important dates, and much more!
Interested in finding a community 4-H Club? Here are all 7 of the Jackson Co. 4-H clubs and the contact info: z.umn.edu/Jackson4-Hclubs - "Shop" around, visit clubs at their next meeting and find the club that best fits you and your families needs!
LAST CHANCE TO ORDER 2024 County Fair REA T-Shirts!
Let us know what sizes you need HERE: https://z.umn.edu/OrderREATshirt - DON'T DELAY - DEADLINE to ORDER is April 26, 2024!!!
If you didn't know, Federated Rural Electric provides all our 4-Hers and Volunteers a free REA 4-H T-Shirt to be worn during the county fair, and more specifically during the Ribbon Auction and General Project reveal. Youth who partake in one of those events will also be given $10 cash for wearing their shirt!
If you're not sure if you have ordered or not already, send us an email and we can let you know!
Jackson County 4-H Programs and Events
UPDATE!! - One remaining 4-H SWIM (Seeing Wellness in Motion) Meeting in Jackson County!!
Calling all youth grades K-13! It is MN 4-H’s goal to get our youth moving and learning all summer long - are you interested in reaching that goal?
Jackson County 4-H is excited join other 4-H members in the MN 4-H Southwest region to offer a SWIM – Seeing Wellness in Motion 4-H program. Youth will learn the fundamentals of swimming, track and field events, and educational opportunities around health, wellness and staying in motion. Each SWIM practice will include a healthy living learning opportunity.
The last date for a potential Jackson 4-H SWIM Program Kick-Off Meeting is:
- April 16, 2024 at 6 p.m at the Heron Lake - Okabena Pool
- Please RSVP here: z.umn.edu/HL-OSWIMkickoff
- A meal will be provided
There will be an informational meeting for parents as well as fun intro to SWIM activities for youth.
- Cost is FREE to attend the meeting.
- If you decided to participate in SWIM there will be a registration fee to help cover program and pool costs.
Who can participate?
This program is open to youth grades K - 13. Youth will become members of 4-H as part of the registration process. This 4-H enrollment is free of charge and does not obligate the youth or families to participate in 4-H outside of SWIM 4-H unless further participation in 4-H is desired by the youth or family.
All youth must be able to swim a minimum of 25 yards to participate for their safety.
NOTE - this program is not intended to replace swimming lessons and we encourage youth to continue to complete their swimming lesson programs.
More info found here:
SAVE THESES DATES - 4-H Project Area Workshops
Mark your calendars for the following workshops - details and registration links coming soon or keep an eye out for the links on 4-H Online.
- Saturday, May 11 (NEW DATE!) - Performance Day Project Workshop from 9 A.M to 12 P.M. - (topics include: Fashion Revue, Food Revue, Sewing, and/or Demonstrations/Performing Arts)
- Saturday, June 8 - 4-H General Project Day from 9 A.M. to 12 P.M - (topics include: Metal Work, Cake/Cookie Decorating, Fine Arts, and/or Entomology)
Mark your Calendars for Animal Science themed 4-H Summer Day Camps for Youth K-5!
Youth K-5 Summer Day Camp Planning is in the works! If you are in grades 6+ you are welcome to join as helpers!
Youth K-5 are invited to participate in 1 of the 3 locations as this day camp will be the same at each of the following locations. More details and registration will be on 4-HOnline. Spread the word now!
Wednesday, June 12, 9am-12 pm - Lakefield
Wednesday, June 26, 9am-12 pm - Heron Lake - Okabena
Monday, July 1, 9am-12 pm - Jackson
Start Planning your 4-H Projects for Presentation Judging Day!
Hey 4-H'ers!
- Have you or do you plan to give a club presentation or demonstration?
- Do you play a musical instrument or sing or dance - maybe acting is more your style?
- Love writing stories, poems, or research papers and sharing them with others?
- What about sewing and clothing? - Do you like showing off the clothes you buy or make to friends and family? Maybe you have some great sewing skills and are proud of the pillowcase you made?
- Ever pretend to run a restaurant or have you even planned a fancy dinner?
If you said YES! to any of these, you are the perfect participant for Performance Arts Judging Day! Judging for the following 4-H project areas takes place on July 9, 2024 from 1 P.M. - 5 P.M. at the Jackson County High School Auditorium. In order to register your projects you will need to enter them on FairEntry (portal opens May 25). Youth and their projects must be in the building by 4pm to be judged.
- Clothing and Textiles
- Purchased or Sewn Clothing
- $20 challenge
- Upcycled Clothing
- Sewn Non-Garment (pillowcase, stuffed animals, bags, etc...)
- Fashion Revue
- Public Presentations
- Demonstrations
- Presentations
- Speeches
- Food Revue
- Performing Arts (performance based and non-performance based)
- Singing
- Dancing
- Acting, Miming, Puppetry, Stand Up Comedy
- Play an instrument
- Scrapbook/Journaling/Poster/Display about any aspect of music, drama, dance or performing
- Make a script for a play, experiment with sound effects, choreograph dances others perform, stage makeup, props etc.
- Creative Writing
NEW Cloverbud Policy Update!
The Minnesota 4-H Youth Development Cloverbud policy creates a uniform set of rules for participation to maintain developmental appropriateness and safety for our youngest 4-H members. A rule related to Cloverbuds and animals has been updated.
When Cloverbuds and animals are together at a 4-H program, families may now choose one of two acceptable ways to guide and monitor involvement in non-mounted activities:
1. The responsible person is in control of the animal with the Cloverbud at their side.
2. The Cloverbud is in control of the animal with the responsible person at their side to assist or take control of the animal when needed or as directed by staff, volunteers or show managers.
In the horse project, the second option does not apply to mounted activities. When a Cloverbud is mounted on a horse, the horse must always have a lead line and be under the control of the responsible person.
Cloverbud families may choose either option. The safety of all young people is maintained as a responsible person will be next to the Cloverbud and animal. The new option acknowledges the growth of the Cloverbud with their project animal and recognizes that many families are engaged in learning at open shows where the Cloverbud-aged youth are in control of the animal. Cloverbud exhibitions will continue to be non-competitive.
For more information regarding Cloverbud policies, visit: z.umn.edu/CloverbudPolicy
Winner's Circle at the Jackson County Fair
Jackson County 4-H wants to invite you all to join us at the 2024 Winner's Circle during the Jackson County Fair this year!
But first...
What is the Winner's Circle and why do we do it?
The Winners Circle is held the day after general entry day at the Jackson County Fair. This event is for the public and 4-H Families to come together to celebrate the successes of our 4-H members and Cloverbuds in the General Project areas. Not only do we recognize the Champions in each category, we also take a moment to celebrate our outgoing seniors, award senior scholarships, present the 2024 Jackson County Farm Family Award, and shed light on our incredible Cloverbud program.
We hope that you all can join us or stop in during this evening of recognition to kick off the 2024 Jackson County Fair!
Winner's Circle will be held on Tuesday, July 23rd at 5:30 pm in the Olson Pavilion
Immediately following, there will be a picture session where media and other interested parties
will be able to take pictures of the winners and their exhibits in the Blue Building.
Federated Rural Electric will have REA T-Shirts for pick up and will be handing out $10 to non-auction participants.
Animal Science Updates
IMPORTANT - Animal ID and Ear Tag Information
If you are new or returning Animal Science Project member please pay attention to the important info regarding Animal ID and Ear Tags. Please check your mail for more information about Animal ID information.
- Learn more about what Animal ID is here: z.umn.edu/Whatis4Hanimalid
- Animal Science Updates are found here: https://z.umn.edu/2024AnSci4HUpdates
How to Animal ID in 4-H Online: z.umn.edu/Animalid4Honline-guide
ENTER your Animal IDs on 4-H Online: https://4honline.com/#/user/sign-in
- **Reminder, (This DOES NOT register your livestock or general projects INTO the county fair - it only identifies which animals youth are thinking about bringing to the county fair.)
Ear tags are available for pick up in the Extension Office for the following animals: Beef, Dairy, Goat, Sheep, Swine. We also have tattooers and ear tagger for families to check out and use.
- Ear tag info is found here: https://z.umn.edu/4-Heartaginfo
ID these animals in 4-H Online by May 15, 2024.
- Beef -
- registered and commercial breeding heifers and cow/calf pairs, prospect market calves - see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/beefIDs
- Dairy - see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/dairyID
- Dog - see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/dogIDs. Remember to also update your dog's vaccination paperwork: https://z.umn.edu/dogvacform
- Goats -
- Meat Goats, see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/meatgoatID
- Dairy Goats, see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/dairygoatID
- Horse - see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/horseID. Remember to start getting your horse's Coggins testing scheduled.
- Llama, Alpaca - see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/llama-alpacaID
- Poultry - see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/poultryID. Make sure you have your poultry's health papers. You will get leg band at the county fair.
- Rabbits - see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/rabbitID
- Sheep - see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/sheepID
- Swine - see this document for ID Requirements: https://z.umn.edu/swineID
Broiler Derby is STILL ON! - LAST CHANCE
Jackson Co. 4-H is excited to provide a Broiler Derby Program for 4-H Youth in grades K-13.
In the Broiler Derby Program, 4-H'ers complete a record of their experience of raising broiler chickens. Participants are judged on both their records and an interview as well as how they show their poultry.
The goals of this Broiler Derby program are to:
- Increase membership and involvement in the 4-H Poultry project area,
- Provide youth with a new opportunity to learn about poultry.
- Increase knowledge of the poultry industry.
- Develop a network of knowledge and experience to support 4-H members in the Poultry Project.
Complete this form by APRIL 12 if you want to learn more or are interested in participating in the Broiler Derby! We need at least 8 youth to express interest in order to offer this program.
Livestock Quality Assurance and Ethics (LQA&E) Training
Livestock Quality Assurance and Ethics training helps youth provide excellent care for their food animals and ensure a high level of food safety to consumers. This in-person, 3-hour training is REQUIRED to exhibit with 4-H at the Minnesota State Fair, and certifies you for three fair seasons.
The level of training required is determined by the grade of the youth at the time the training takes place.
Level 1 training: 4-H’ers grades 6-8 and first-year exhibitors in higher grades.
Level 2 training: 4-H’ers grades 9-13 or 6-8 that previously completed Level 1.
Not sure if you need training? Your 4-H Online profile lists your previous LQA&E attendance in the “Trainings'' tab.
When: Tuesday, June 4 from 5 P.M. - 8:30 P.M.
Where: Worthington Intermediate School (671 N Crailsheim Rd Worthington, MN 56187)
Supper will be provided, or feel free to pack your own.
What to bring;
a water bottle
a notebook
a pen or pencil
any 4-H Animal Science project records that you keep
This event is open to any youth in grades 6-13 who are interested in 4-H Animal Science Projects or are planning on attending the MN State Fair with their livestock project.
Registration is open until May 21 via 4-HOnline. To register, log in, or if new to 4-H, enroll, at https://SW-LQAEinWorthington.4honline.com. For assistance, refer to the event registration guide at z.umn.edu/4hEvent or contact your local Extension Educator if you have additional questions or concerns.
Anna Rose, Nobles County Extension Educator, (507)-295-5314.
Caitlyn Krueger, Jackson County Extension Educator, (507) 662-5293.
Review the full Minnesota 4-H LQA Policy here (z.umn.edu/MnLQAEPolicy).
**Training should be completed before the Jackson County Deadline: July 10 by 4:30 P.M.**
Failure to complete the training and submit your certificate by July 10 may result in ineligibility for a 4-H livestock trip to the MN State Fair.
Not planning to attend the In Person Event?
Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA) online training is available. The online training is one hour long and must be taken using a desktop computer or laptop – it is not available with ipads or on other mobile devices. Instructions are found via this document (z.umn.edu/MnYQCAinfo). It can be accessed through members’ 4Honline account. There is a cost of $12 that must be paid by credit card.
RETURN - all unused animal ear tags provided by 4-H!
This may be new information for Animal Science project members.
In order to be in compliance with MN Board of Animal Health and USDA official tag tracking. All unused 4-H ear tags need to be returned to the 4-H Extension Office as soon as possible.
- 4-H Ear tags from this year that are unused must be returned to the Extension Office within 2 weeks of the Animal ID deadline
- If you have older 4-H tags that have been unused, please return them immediately to the 4-H office.
Poultry Workshops - Registration Opening Soon!
New to the poultry project or don't know where to start? Maybe you want to improve the skills you already have? Well, save these following dates and spread the word to Jackson 4-H'ers and others in the surrounding counties!
- Saturday, June 1 from 9 A.M. - 12 P.M. (choosing your show birds and care)
- Saturday, July 13 from 9 A.M. - 12 P.M. (showmanship skills)
Registration will soon be open on 4-H Online.
Showman's Best Camp
MAY 29, 2024 · Clay County Fairgrounds, Vermillion, SD
One day. Three presenters. Unlimited learning.
Sydell Sheep & Goat Equipment and Clay County 4-H have teamed up to offer this incredible one-day camp as an affordable educational opportunity for youth sheep and goat exhibitors in the upper Midwest. Open to exhibitors of all ages and experience levels, this camp will provide takeaways and hands-on learning guaranteed to help level up your success this show season! No need to bring livestock, we'll have stock on site for hands-on experience for all attendees. Price of attendance includes lunch, snacks, drinks, and t-shirt. Counts for 4-H YQCA training.
Learn more and register at: https://showmansbestcamp.com/
South Dakota Swine Summit
June 13, 2024 | 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. | Brookings, SD
Youth ages 12-21 who are interested in learning more about the swine industry are invited to attend the 2024 South Dakota Swine Summit! Youth will have the opportunity to join SDSU Extension Experts for tours of the SDSU Swine Education and Research Facility, the SDSU Off-site Research Facility, and attend educational sessions.
Register for free by June 8, 2024 by visiting: extension.sdstate.edu/event/ south-dakota-swine-summit
Minnesota 4-H Livestock Judging Camp
Do you want to enhance your livestock evaluation and selection skills? Do you want to become better with oral reasons? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then the Minnesota 4-H Livestock Judging Camp is for you!
Presented by the University of Minnesota Livestock Judging Team and Coach Kyle Rozeboom, this camp will teach you the fundamentals of livestock judging and evaluation, provide instruction with oral reasons, and help you become more confident in livestock judging.
Camp will be held June 17-19, 2024, at the University of Minnesota St. Paul Campus.
Additional information, including daily schedule, housing, meals and driving directions, will be emailed to registered participants.
Register Here: z.umn.edu/livestockjudgingcamp
Jackson County Volunteer and Committee Updates
Jackson County Committee Meeting Dates
Thank you to those who have attended the committee meetings this winter.
- Auction Committee - May 20, 2024 at 7 P.M. at Jackson Co. Extension Office
- General Project Committee - April 18, 2024 at 6 P.M. at JCC Middle School in Lakefield
- Food Stand Committee - May 8, 2024 from 4:30-7:30 at Fairgrounds (inventory of Food Stand)
- Livestock Superintendents Committee - we still need a GOAT superintendent - please ask your club's families if they have any interest.
- Optional Meeting April 11, 2024 - 6:30-8:30 P.M. JCC Middle School in Lakefield
- Meeting - May 7, 2024 from 7-8 P.M. - JCC Middle School in Lakefield
National Volunteer Week, April 21-27
Mark your calendars for National Volunteer Week, April 21-27, and make a plan to celebrate Minnesota 4-H volunteers!
During National Volunteer Week we honor the many contributions of Minnesota 4-H volunteers. Volunteers play a vital role in 4-H’s ability to promote positive youth development. They create learning opportunities that help youth gain leadership skills, improve their decision-making and build career readiness. As a result, Minnesota communities are more connected, healthier, and civically engaged.
To honor our Jackson County 4-H Volunteers, throughout the month you can find "Proud Volunteer" signs in the yards of our incredible Jackson County Volunteers. These signs started in our club leaders and advisory board members yards, and will slowly be moved around to honor other 4-H volunteers throughout the county. Don't forget to take time this month to say "Thank You!" to the volunteers around you, whether it be in 4-H or in other areas of your life!
Apply for Scholarships, Grants, and Awards!!
Jackson County 4-H Bring it Back Scholarship
Looking for funding to assist with registration or participation costs for 4-H camps, workshops, education events, or other 4-H sponsored events? Submit a Bring it Back Form to request assistance!
Learn more and apply here: z.umn.edu/JacksonBringitBackgoogleform
A paper form is available on the Jackson County 4-H Website
How does it work?
The Jackson County 4-H Federation has allocated funds in our yearly budget to help offset some if not all costs for 4–H events, workshops, camps, etc.
The funds awarded will be up to 75% of the amount requested or as determined by the Jackson County 4-H Federation Budget overseen by the Jackson County Extension Educator, Youth Treasurer, and Adult Treasurer.
Those receiving funds are expected to give a short presentation to the 4-H Federation at the next available date or the January 4-H Federation Meeting, whatever comes sooner.. If members can’t attend, a written report shall be submitted.
Funds will be paid after the member attends the event and reports back their experience to the Jackson County 4-H Federation.
The Jackson County Extension Office will notify those applying if funds are available and their request is approved.
If funds are not available in the Federation Budget, the Extension Educator will propose to the Federation a change in budget allocations. The Jackson County 4-H Federation will then determine where the funds will be taken out to fulfill the request or deny the request.
Jackson County Senior Scholarship 2024
Jackson County 4-H is excited to offer current graduating seniors an opportunity to receive scholarship funds to use to further their education. The 2024 application is available as a Google Form and in PDF format. Be sure to check it out!
z.umn.edu/SeniorScholarshipPDF
z.umn.edu/JacksonSeniorScholarshipEform
Applications are due April 15th, 2024.
No late applications will be accepted.
Dan Patch and Youth Leadership Applications
The Dan Patch and Youth Leadership applications are due on April 8th! Be sure to print the latest application information. **NOTE: there is an additional requirement this year to have an adult write a Letter of Nomination.
This is an opportunity to showcase your learning, leadership and service as it relates to the Horse Project in MN 4-H. A 2-page resume and an 8-page portfolio are required, along with an application, signature page, and letter of nomination. For the Youth Leadership 6-9th graders, this is it!
For Dan Patch 10-13th graders, the top 20 scores advance to Phase 2 where they compete in interviews, presentations, and team problems on June 22nd. The top 10 from both age groups can stall in the Center Aisle at the MN 4-H Horse Show in September and enter in classes they earned a blue ribbon at county fair.
If you have questions about any part of the process, please reach out to the volunteer chairperson, Cindy.
Youth Leadership https://z.umn.edu/youthleadershipapplication
Dan Patch https://z.umn.edu/danpatchapplication
2024 4-H Sponsorship Program by New Vision Co-op
New Vision Co-op is proud to offer a 4-H sponsorship program. 4-H has proven to be a great way to teach kids about agriculture and they learn responsibility and are exposed to a wide variety of new experiences teaching them about growing, building, and being a leader. It is for these reasons the New Vision Co-op Board of Directors continues to offer financial support to the youth participating in the various 4-H projects.
Learn more and apply here: https://newvision.coop/4-h/
Application Deadline
Friday, June 7, 2024
ONLINE APPLICATIONS ONLY
Late applications will not be eligible.
Save These Dates
Upcoming Extension Office Hours
The Jackson County Extension Office will be closed on the following dates. If you need to pick up or drop off anything please plan to do so outside of these dates, or utilize the drop box behind the office.
- April 17 - Staff Professional Development Day
- May 27 - Memorial Day
- June 19 - Juneteenth
- July 4 - 4th of July
Jackson Co. 4-H Ambassador Meeting for Youth Grades 6+
Our Ambassador Meeting on April 29 at 6pm - is CANCELLED due to youth's scheduling conflicts.
It has been rescheduled to:
When: May 13 at 5:30 P.M.
Location: Jackson County Fairgrounds
Bring: Shovels, buckets, gloves, rake, pruners, etc. gardening equipment.
Please RSVP by emailing mnext-jackson@umn.edu or calling the office at 507-662-5293. Will need at least 5 youth to offer the meeting.
NEW LOCATION! - Advisory Board and Federation Meeting - April, 15 2024
Stay up to date about 4-H in Jackson County by reading the past agenda and the minutes from the January Federation Meeting we had on January 22, 2024.
Please encourage one adult and one youth to represent your club at the next Federation meeting happening April 15 at 7:30pm at the JCC Middle School in Lakefield.
Agenda can be found in the event date on the Jackson County 4-H Google calendar (z.umn.edu/JacksonCo4HGoogleCal) when ready.
Advisory Board meeting will take place at 6:30pm prior to the Federation meeting.
Jackson County Important Dates and Deadlines
To stay up to date about deadlines, events and reminders please subscribe to the Jackson County 4-H google calendar: https://z.umn.edu/JacksonCo4HGoogleCal
- April 26, 2024 - REA shirt order form due! - 4-H youth who showcase a general project or an animal science project and wear their shirt receive $10 from REA!
May 8, 2024 - Supers get list of families who have sent in Animal IDs.
May 15, 2024 - Animal ID Deadline in 4-H Online -this does not enter your exhibit into the county fair, you must do so with FairEntry.
May 16, 2024 - Superintendents help 4-H office verify IDs and contact families if necessary
- Extra date for verification is May 2024
- May 25, 2024 - FairEntry registration OPENS! - use this site to sign up for county fair exhibits.
NEW DATE - June 25, 2024 - FairEntry Deadline for 4-H’ers - this signs you up to exhibit at the fair!
July 9, 2024 - Pre-Fair Judging Day/Presentation Day (project areas judged include: clothing, food revue, creative writing, performing arts, demonstrations, presentations, etc)
NEW DEADLINE - July 10, 2024 - Registration Papers, and LQA&E / YQCA certification due to office. Superintendent Meeting and Livestock Quotas finalized.
July 16, 2024 - Pre-Fair Clean-Up
July 23-28, 2024 - Fair Dates
July 28, 2024 - Post Fair Clean-Up
July 29, 2024 - Livestock Judging Contest in Jackson
August 22 - Sept. 2, 2024 - Minnesota State Fair
September 2024 - Fair Recap meeting with Superintendents and Committees
Get Involved throughout the State!
Ag Academy: Passion to Career
Consider attending this year’s Ag Academy: Passion to Career in Mankato. Join us, as well as our partners at FFA, for Ag Academy: Passion to Career– a unique opportunity for youth in grades 7-11. This 3-day, 2-night camp runs from June 20-22, and is held at Minnesota State University (MSU) and South Central College (SCC), Mankato, Minn.
At this camp, youth will have the chance to explore different careers in agriculture, food and natural resources while experiencing a college campus. In addition, college professors and industry leaders will provide hands-on learning experiences on topics like animals, communications and more.
Learn More and Register here: z.umn.edu/2024AgAcademy
Registration deadline: May 31.
'Hit Me with Your Best Shot' Photo Contest!
Minnesota 4-H photography is excited to offer a multi-state photo contest to youth in grades K-13.
In the 'Hit Me with Your Best Shot' 4-H photo contest, youth are encouraged to select their best photo from the current 4-H year and tell the committee why it’s special to them. Submit one image (with no or minimal editing) with up to three sentences on why it’s important to you by 11:59 p.m. (CST) on May 1.
Summer Camp at Lake Shetek - REGISTRATION is NOW OPEN!
Sign up by May 10 at z.umn.edu/4HCampLakeShetek
Jackson County will take $50 OFF (you only pay $100! per camper)
Late registrations accepted until May 30 - $175 - no discount will be available if registering late.
Sensational Soybeans! 4-H Project Kit
Ready to dive into the world of plants? Join us for an exciting soybean growing experience with our 4-H sensational soybean kits!
These kits are perfect for youth in grades 3+ who are eager to get their hands dirty and learn about agriculture. When you sign up, you'll receive a self-guided soybean kit containing everything you need (except the bucket and soil) to grow soybeans.
As part of this experience, you can:
- Grow anywhere: No matter where you live, you can join in. Our user-friendly kit makes soybean growing accessible to all.
- Discover Minnesota's soybeans: Explore how soybeans thrive in Minnesota's rich agricultural landscape. Throughout the summer, learn from local farmers about cultivation techniques and farming practices.
- Explore soybean uses: Soybeans are incredibly versatile, from food to biofuels. Discover the variety of ways they impact our daily lives.
- Experiment with soil: Test different soil types and watch soybeans grow before your eyes. This hands-on experience deepens your understanding of plant growth and soil dynamics.
Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity!
Registration deadline: May 1.
Learn more and register here: z.umn.edu/sensationalsoybeans
Shooting Sports & Wildlife Program
Martin County 4-H SS&W Team would like to invite Jackson County 4-Hers to join them for practices! Youth can participate in a range of disciplines such as archery, shotgun, rifle/pistol, and wildlife, with the hope of adding muzzleloading soon!
The SS&W Team typically meets on rotating Monday's in Fairmont or Truman, starting in May, typically beginning at 6:30 or 7 PM.
Interested in joining? Email Reilley Rode, rrode@umn.edu
Word Wizards: Edit Your Writing
Take youth writing to the next level with Word wizards: Edit your writing. Youth will bring a piece of writing that is ready to edit and work in partners and small groups to edit while learning from guest speakers. Speakers will help you learn how to offer better feedback, what to look for in your writing, character viewpoints, how to present your writing, and more!
Youth must have a piece of writing ready for editing and be prepared to share it with others. All writing shared must meet 4-H Code of Conduct standards.
Who: 6th Grade and up
When: Thursdays in April
6:30 - 7:45 p.m.
Where: Online through Zoom
Cost: Free!
Learn more at z.umn.edu/WordWizards
Join the 4-H Green Superheroes of Science!
The Zoom meeting dates are Tuesdays, April 9, 16, 23, from 6:30 - 7:00 p.m and April 30 from, 6:30-7:15 pm. The Zoom information will be emailed separately.
Cost $20.00.
4-H Rabbit Fun Show in Brandon
Are you looking for a rabbit judging experience before your county fair? Do you need to purchase a rabbit for showing before the May 15 deadline? Need your rabbit tattooed or are you in the market for rabbit supplies?
Mark your calendars for Sunday, April 28 and attend this annual event. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. and judging begins at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $ 3 per rabbit entered.
- Ribbons and medallions awarded
- Food stand on site
- Door prizes and silent auction offered
This show has lots to offer! For more information or questions, contact the Douglas County Extension office at 320-762-3890 or mnext-douglas@umn.edu.
2024 Kandiyohi County 4-H Horse Clinic
Kandiyohi County 4-H Invites you to register for their day long clinic!
When: Saturday, May 11, 2024
Where: Kandiyohi County Fairgrounds, Willmar, MN
Tentative sessions may include:
Small group: Showmanship, Western, English, Balance, Anatomy, Team Building
Clinicians will provide hands-on learning during the event
Enjoy a pizza party in the evening!
Learn more and register here: z.umn.edu/KandiyohiHorseClinic2024
Minnesota Farmers Union Leadership Camp
Farmers Union Youth Leadership Camps are all about helping young people become good citizens by planting the seeds of responsibility, leadership and cooperation in an environment where those qualities can grow and flourish.
Join the Minnesota Farmers Union for one of their 2024 Summer Camp sessions!
- Northern Camp (Ages 9-12) in Erskine, MN
- 6/17-6/21
- Southern Elementary Camp (Ages 8-11) in New London, MN
- 7/14-7/17
- Southern Junior Camp (Ages 11-14) in New London, MN
- 7/21-7/25
- Senior High Camp (Ages 14-18) in New London, MN
- 7/28-8/02
For more details and registration, please visit https://mfu.org/camp/
4-H Opportunities in the Southwest and Statewide
Stay Connected with 4-H!
Contact and Follow Jackson County 4-H
Jackson County 4-H
607 State Highway 86, Lakefield, MN
Email: mnext-jackson@umn.edu
Phone: 507-662-5293
Website: extension.umn.edu/jackson
Follow us on Facebook
Jackson County 4-H Google Calendar: z.umn.edu/JacksonCo4HGoogleCal
PLEASE DOWNLOAD THE 4-H APP!
Apple App Store - https://apps.apple.com/al/app/minnesota-4-h/id1478965229
Google Play Store - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.minnesota4h.umn
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