Washington County 4-H Newsletter
March 7, 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 2023-2024 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 4-H family newsletter.
Upcoming county events/activities
Dakota/Washington 4-H Camp Registration Now Open - Don’t delay!
Don’t miss out on our popular overnight 4-H Resident Camp, held at Baker Outdoor Learning Center from June 10-12, 2024. Campers will enjoy: Cabin camping, campfires, challenges, outdoor adventures, crafts, nature experiences, making new friends, and much more! Camp is open to both Washington and Dakota County 4-Her’s. Cost is $150/camper and includes all meals and lodging, activities, t-shirt, and bus transportation from the Dakota County Northern Service Center to camp. Campers must have completed grades 3-8 during the 2023-2024 school year. This camp fills up QUICKLY and registration is on a first come, first serve basis. Registration will close when camp is full or May 15, whichever comes first. Register today!
- Registration is first-come, first serve basis. Payment must be received within 7 days of registration to secure campers spot. Send payment to: Dakota County 4-H, Attn: Dakota/Washington Overnight Camp, 4100 220th St. West, #101, Farmington, MN 55024.
Contact Megan at slate187@umn.edu with any questions!
Textile Arts Day - April 20
Join us for a day of learning about sewing, embroidery, weaving, felting, and more! A knowledgeable crew of 4-H volunteers and alumni will lead hands-on activities with youth to create projects they can take home and show at the fair this summer! Lunch will be provided.
Saturday, April 20th
10am - 3pm
Hooley Hall
$15
Grades 3+
Register and learn more at: z.umn.edu/TextileArtsWorkshop
Cloverbud Workshop - April 27
Cost is $10 if sent in by the deadline of April 19. After April 19, cost is $20 and must be prepaid for supplies and pizza. Registration now open!
Please contact the office to get non-4-Hers enrolled for "event only" membership at mnext-washington@umn.edu
New Family Night - May 2
Attention new 4-H families! Please join us for an info session about the county fair and other summer events. We will meet at the Washington County fairgrounds to talk about registration, deadlines, and dates to mark on your calendar, then take a tour of the fairgrounds.
Register at z.umn.edu/WashCoNewFamilyNight
Thurs. May 2
6pm-7:30pm
Hooley Hall
Contact Ashton with questions, ashton@umn.edu
STEM
March STEM: Outer Space! - March 28
Join Washington County 4-H to learn how to make an edible eclipse, a galaxy in a jar, and more! Go home with free eclipse viewing glasses for the whole family!
Thursday, March 28
6pm -7pm
Park Grove Library (Cottage Grove, MN)
Grades 3-6
$ Free!
If you’re interested in volunteering with STEM programming, please contact Ashton at ashton@umn.edu
April STEM: Seed Bombs for Spring!
Welcome spring with 4-H! We will be making seed bombs at two library locations in April. Seed bombs are small spheres created with clay, soil, and wildflower seeds that can be dispersed anywhere you'd like to encourage pollinators to be plentiful! This is a fun, easy activity for youth of all abilities.
Drop in during hours listed. No registration required.
Wed. April 10
4:30pm - 6:30pm
Hardwood Creek Library
Forest Lake, MN
Thurs. April 18
2pm - 4pm
Oakdale Library
Oakdale, MN
Recycling & Energy Center Tour - May 9
Curious about where your trash and recycling goes? Love big machines? Interested in keeping our cities and natural spaces clean and healthy?
Join 4-H for a tour of the Recycling & Energy Center of Washington & Ramsey Counties! All trash generated by individuals and businesses in Ramsey and Washington counties is delivered to the R&E Center, where waste is processed to recover recyclables and make fuel for electricity production. Tours highlight how the facility works and how waste is managed in the East Metro as well as how to better reduce, reuse and recycle.
Thursday, May 9 - 6:30pm (tour lasts approx. one hour)
100 Red Rock Rd, Newport, MN 55055
Grades K+ (adults encouraged to attend!)
Free!
Register: z.umn.edu/R-E
Contact Ashton with questions at ashton@umn.edu
Animal Science
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.
Horse PDC Meeting - March 11
The Horse Project Development Committee will meet on Monday, March 11 beginning at 6:30 pm at the Stillwater Gov’t Center. The Horse PDC oversees County Fair shows, Education, Camps, etc. If you are interested in being a part of this committee, contact Ann at; churc109@umn.edu
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
Dakota County 4-H Chicken and Pigeon workshop - March 26; register by March 25
Want to learn more about the 4-H poultry project? Not sure where to get birds? Did you know that you can show pigeons for 4-H? Get your questions answered and learn more at the FREE hands-on poultry and pigeon workshop on Tuesday, March 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center in Farmington. Workshop is open to youth in grade 3 and up and parent/guardians. Participants do not need to be enrolled in the 4-H Poultry project to attend. This is a good opportunity to learn more about the project before fully committing to the project.
Guest presenters, Mike Kutzke and Amy Nicolai will lead the chicken and pigeon workshop where youth will learn about:
Fair classes
Selecting breeds and securing birds
General care
Showmanship
Questions
Registration due Monday, March 25 in 4-H Online. The 4-H Online event registration guide will walk you through how to register. If you are new to 4-H, please select the “Virtual 4-H” or “In Person Camp/Event” club for your county. In the projects field, choose the project your primary focus is on and any other project areas you have an interest in. Contact Cherie if you have questions.
Rabbit 101 Workshop! - April 21
Rabbit Project members are invited to attend a Rabbit Workshop on Sunday, April 21st, from 2pm to 4pm at Hooley Hall. The following topics will be covered; Rabbit care, what it's like to own a Rabbit, what to expect at the county fair, and how to lease rabbits, along with any other questions you bring to the workshop! No cost to attend! Any questions, please contact Kara at; karamt30@gmail.com
Central Region Poultry Workshop - April 27
All central region 4-H poultry project members are invited to attend a workshop with poultry and pigeon instructors, Mike Kutzke and Dennis Kuhn. With a mix of lecture and audience participation, attendees will learn showmanship tips and what to expect during the judging process. This workshop will cover pigeons/doves, chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys. Birds will be provided. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Mayer Community Center 1413 Bluejay Ave N, Mayer MN, Free, K-13, register through 4honline.
4-H Rabbit Fun Show in Douglas County - April 28
Are you looking for a rabbit judging experience before the 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 the Douglas County 4-H Rabbit Fun Show annual event. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. and judging begins at 11:30 a.m. Cost is $ 3 per rabbit entered.
Rabbits for sale
Rabbit tattooing available
Ribbons and medallions awarded
Food stand on site
Door prizes and silent auction offered
Register day of show at the door.
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.
Learn about Pigeons
Interested in learning more about Pigeons?
Pigeons are included under the Poultry Project. A group recently met to learn more about Pigeon Racing. We have a volunteer willing to work with 4-H youth in everything related to pigeons; selecting/accessing birds for the fair, racing, training, and showing. Below are the categories for Pigeons being entered at the county fair;
PIGEONS
Pigeons - Utility, 1 Breeding Pair
Pigeons - Utility, 1 Young bird Male or Female, 1 young bird, this year band
Pigeons - Fancy, 1 Breeding Pair
Pigeons - Fancy, Young bird Male or Female, 1 young bird, this year band
Pigeons - Flying, 1 Breeding Pair
Pigeons - Flying, Young bird Male or Female, 1 young bird, this year band
If you would like to learn more, please contact Mark Augustine directly at; 651-210-2396 or MarkRay476@aol.com Mark has contacts that are eager to help 4-H youth get involved with the Pigeon Project!
General Livestock Judging Team Kick-off
Washington and Dakota Counties will combine efforts for General Livestock Judging Teams again this year. General Livestock judging includes placing groups of 4 of the following species; beef, sheep, swine, and meat goats. Youth learn how to select and give oral reasons on their placings. This opportunity is open to all 4-H members (3rd grade and up). Youth do not need to be enrolled in these livestock projects to participate. If interested in learning more or joining these teams, please contact Ann at; churc109@umn.edu A tentative date for the kick-off meeting is April 18th. Once we have a list of interested youth, we will connect with you directly!
LQA&E Training - June 21
Mark your calendars for the 2024 Livestock Quality Assurance and Ethics training (LQA&E). Training will be held on Friday, June 21 from 8:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Dee Brothers LLC in Farmington, MN. More information to come.
LQA&E training is required for any youth 6th grade and above that would take a state fair trip. It is required for youth exhibiting dairy, beef, sheep, swine, goats, llama, rabbit and poultry to complete this course every three years.
If you are unable to attend the in-person training on June 21 you have the option of completing the YQCA online training, good for one year, or attending a training hosted by another county.
All LQA&E training needs to be completed before Washington County Fair to be eligible to accept a MN 4-H state fair livestock trip, if given the opportunity.
IMPORTANT CLOVERBUD RULE CHANGE
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. Either way, Cloverbud exhibitions will continue to be non-competitive. Complete Cloverbud rules are found in the Cloverbud information sheet.
Performing Arts
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 - Due April 1
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!
County Arts-In Registration - Early Bird Registration Due April 1
It’s time to start thinking about summer, which means Arts-In will be here before we know it! County Arts-In is a performing arts and leadership experience for youth that have completed grades 7-13. Participants will work together with a team of talented Directors and Student Directors to put together a 30-minute musical that will be performed at the Washington County Fair and Minnesota State Fair. Participants will choose which major they would like to participate in: performing, band, or technical. Auditions will take place on July 7, with the encampment starting the following week, July 14-17. See registration form for specific dates and times of auditions, encampment, and performances.
*Early Bird Registration*
Cost is $75 if you register and pay by APRIL 1. After April 1, price increases to $90. Deadline to register is July 1. Late fees of an additional $25.00 ($115 total) will apply after July 1!
*Participants will also need to purchase gate passes for the County Fair and State Fair general encampment.
Volunteer Requirement: 2+ hours of adult volunteer time is required for each child participating in Arts-In. A separate $100.00 check per family must be included with registration. This deposit will be shredded if volunteer commitment is completed.
You will need to complete all three forms:
Questions can be directed to Avis Peters at avisapeters@hotmail.com or 651-430-8163. Or
Washington County 4-H Office at 651-430-6800 or mnext-washington@umn.edu
Shooting Sports
Washington County 2024 Shooting Sports Registration Information
You must be enrolled in 4-H and in the Shooting Sports & Wildlife project area in 4honline. Log into your family account and make sure you are enrolled in the project area and that a consent has been signed. The consent form will automatically pop up when adding the project.
4-H’ers registering for 22 Rifle, Trap, and/or Black Powder must have completed a Fire Arms Safety course prior to participating in these 4-H disciplines. A copy of the certificate showing that youth have completed Fire Arms Safety will be required on the first night of training.
Summer sessions for Archery, BB and Pellet will take place on Monday nights at the Washington County Fairgrounds for grades 3 and up. Training will take place on the following Mondays:
June 3, 10, 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22, Aug 5, 12, 19, 26
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Summer sessions for 22 Rifle, Trap, and/or Black Powder will take place Tuesday nights at the Oakdale Gun Club for 4-Hers who have their DNR gun safety certificate and have completed 7th grade. Training will take place on the following Tuesday’s:
June 4, 11, 18, 25, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 August 6, 13, 20, 27, September 3
Training: 6 pm – 8:00 pm
State Shoot
In 2024, the State Shoot will take place September 6– 8. Youth must have logged 15 hours/
discipline with certified trainers and must attend 8 hours of wildlife training to be eligible for the State Shoot. More information will be shared over the summer months.
Cost
There is a $40.00/participant or $80.00 max per family to help cover expenses of the program. Payment must be received before attending training. Checks should be made out to Washington County 4-H sent to the following address.
Washington County 4-H
14949 62nd Street North
Stillwater, MN 55082
To register: If you are interested in participating in the upcoming 2024 Shooting Sports Training, please register here!
Certified Instructor Training
We welcome adults who would be willing to become Certified Trainers in Washington County! Washington County has offered a robust Shooting Sports program. To offer our youth this opportunity we are in need of Trainers. All 4-H Trainers need to be screened 4-H volunteers and be certified through the State 4-H program. Washington County 4-H will reimburse Trainers registration fee. More info can be found at;
https://extension.umn.edu/4-h-events/4-h-shooting-sports-and-wildlife-leader-certification
Questions can be directed to Ann Church churc109@umn.edu
Pheasants Forever tickets
To help defray the cost of equipment and supplies for the Shooting Sports Program, all families are encouraged to participate in selling/purchasing Pheasants Forever raffle tickets! The cost is $10/ticket and all proceeds come back to Washington County 4-H.
Washington County Shooting Sports is looking for support in selling and purchasing Pheasants Forever raffle tickets. This was a great fundraiser for the program last year raising $2000.00! All proceeds come back to our Shooting Sports Program! If you are interested in purchasing or selling tickets please let us know and we can either mail you tickets or have them available for pick up. Email; mnext-washington@umn.edu or stop by the office. If paying by check, please make it out to Washington County Pheasants Forever.
1st Prize: $1000 Scheel's gift card
2nd Prize: CZ-USA 712 G3 Shotgun
3rd Prize: $500 Scheel's Gift Card
4th Prize: Milwaukee M18 Cordless 4 tool set
5th Prize: $250 Scheel's Gift Card
6th Prize: 6ig Frig Badlands 45 QT Cooler
7th Prize: Husqvarna Chainsaw model 120 16 inch
Drawing on 4/25/24 6:30 pm. Tinucci's 396 21st St. Newport MN
Need not be present to win!
Permit # X-03701-24-028
Must be 18 or older to purchase or win.
Winner responsible for all applicable fees or taxes
Tickets need to be returned to our office no later than Thursday, April 18th!
Thank you for your help!
Wildlife Coordinator needed for Shooting Sports Program!
Washington County 4-H is in need of an adult volunteer to serve as the Wildlife Coordinator for youth participating in our Shooting Sports Program. The job of the Wildlife Coordinator is to help youth find opportunities to complete 8 hours of required training prior to the State Shoot.
Wildlife Instructors are required to be certified in Wildlife Training. The next session will be held in Mora, Minnesota on April 27th.
SS&W leader training in Mora on April 27. Register by April 17.
Our county will pay for the training. Please contact Ann if this is something you can help with at; churc109@umn.edu
Youth Leadership Opportunities
Camp Counselor Application - Due April 5
Join us at our 4-H Summer Resident Camp at Baker Outdoor Learning Center from June 10-12, 2024! Join Washington and Dakota County campers, counselors, and staff for an overnight camp experience, complete with canoeing, archery, crafts, smores, songs, the beach, and so much more! Any youth who have completed 9th grade through one year past high school are invited to apply to become a 4-H Camp Counselor. Sign up here!
Contact Megan at slate187@umn.edu with any questions.
Sign up to be an Ambassador!
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.
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.
Cloverbuds
- April 27 - Cloverbud Spring Workshop. Registration now open!
- Cloverbuds Rule Change - Cloverbuds will be able to exhibit at the Washington County Fair. General rules can be found in the Cloverbud Information sheet.
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. Time to schedule those vet visits! Turn in your Dog ID paperwork and training fees. 2024 Dog ID Form
- April 9 - Dog Demo Night. Learn about the different classes offered through live demonstrations.
- April 16 - Dog Training starts (Dog ID must be completed before attending)
- April 21 - Tentative start date for Dog Agility. (Dog ID must be completed before attending)
- July 27-28 - County 4-H Dog Show
- Sept. 21-22 - State Dog Show
Horse
- March 11 - Horse Project Development Committee Mtg. - 6:30 PM Stillwater Government Center
- June 9 - 12 - Washington County Horse Camp (Registration opens April 1)
- July TBD - Practice Horse Show
- July 31 - County 4-H Horse Show
- Sept. 13-16 - State Horse Show
Livestock
- February 15 - Market Beef/Dairy Steer ID deadline
- March 12 & 26 - Llama Project Mtg. - 7:00 PM @ Washington County Fairgrounds
- March 26 - Poultry Workshop in Dakota County - Registration in 4honline.
- April 21 - Rabbit 101 Workshop - Hooley Hall - 2:00-4:00PM Register here!
- April 27 - Poultry Workshop in Carver County - Registration in 4honline.
- May 15 - Animal ID deadline (Dog, Horse, Llama, Rabbit, Dairy, Breeding Beef, Sheep, Swine, Goat (market & dairy) and leased poultry). Start entering your animals now.
- June 21 - In person Livestock Quality Assurance Training - Dee Brothers LLC in Northfield, MN - 8:45AM-12:00PM (Registration through 4honline)
New Family
- May 2 - New Family Night - Learn about the County Fair experience. Register at z.umn.edu/WashCoNewFamilyNight
Performing Arts
- March 15 - County Arts-In Student Directors applications due!
April 1 - County Arts-In early registration due, rates go up after this date.
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.
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.
Project Workshops
- April 20 - Textile Arts Day. Register and learn more at: z.umn.edu/TextileArtsWorkshop
Shooting Sports
- April 18 - Pheasants Forever Fundraiser - Return tickets and cash to office.
- June 1 - Pre-registration for Shooting Sports deadline. If you are interested in participating in the upcoming 2024 Shooting Sports Training, please register here!
STEM
- March 28 - Park Grove Library - 6:00-7:00PM - Grades 3-6 - Outer space Register here!
- April 10 - Hardwood Creek Library - 4:30-6:30PM - Drop in Seed Bomb Project
- April 18 - Oakdale Library - 2:00-4:00PM - Drop in Seed Bomb Project
May 9 -Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy Center Tour - Register: z.umn.edu/R-E
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 for Camp and Camp Counselors are in this newsletter. 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 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
Volunteer with us!
Please pass on your knowledge and skills by becoming a 4-H volunteer! Join an upcoming event or pitch us your idea. Sign up here: z.umn.edu/washington4-Hvolunteers
Looking for 4-H Alumni!
Are you a 4-H alum who went into a career related to a project or passion you found in 4-H? If so, we are looking for a few alumni who would be willing to be on a panel to discuss how 4-H influenced their career. If you are in a career related to Animal Science/Agriculture, Performing Arts/Theater, STEM, Clothing, Shop, Photography, etc. we would love to have you come share your journey with current 4-H youth. The panel will be held during the April 22 Federation Meeting beginning at 6:30 pm at the Stillwater Gov’t Center. Please contact Ann at; churc109@umn.edu if you are available!
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. The remaining webinar will take place March 21. Learn more and register.
Statewide Events
In-Person Opportunities
Central Region 4-H Pumpkin Challenge
Learn how to grow pumpkins with the Central Region 4-H Pumpkin Challenge. Choose from 3 registration types: virtual (we will mail seeds to you), in-person kickoff option one, May 21st in Isanti, MN, or in-person kickoff option two, June 4th in St. Michael, MN. In-person kickoff participants receive 2 started pumpkin seedlings (1 normal pumpkin and 1 giant pumpkin), a greenhouse tour, and education on caring for their pumpkins by master gardeners and volunteers. Virtual participants meet May 6th at 6:30pm. Some participants (virtual and in-person) will be randomly selected to receive giant pumpkin seeds from the 2020 world record-winning pumpkin "Tiger King" grown by Travis Gienger. Audience: K-13. Cost: $5 for virtual and $10 for kickoff 1 and kickoff 2. z.umn.edu/PumpkinChallenge24
YELLO to be held at University of Minnesota - Morris campus June 12-15.
The Minnesota 4-H State Ambassadors are excited to announce that the Minnesota 4-H state leadership conference, Youth Exploring Leadership and Learning Opportunities (YELLO), is scheduled for June 12-15 at the University of Minnesota - Morris. Registration open April 1-May 10.
YELLO invites youth in grades 7-13 to explore college and career areas, engage in leadership learning, participate in community activities, and build new connections with peers and adults from throughout the state! The multi-day experience involves keynote speakers, interactive workshops, community service projects, social experiences, and youth-led engagement activities.
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
Green Superhero of Science
Calling youth in grades K-3!! Join the Green Superhero of Science and engage in fun weekly experiments that spark curiosity and discovery. Create moon dough (a bio-plastic), explore green chemistry and make a foaming fizzy, engineer materials to build a super soaker, solve a plastic litter mystery and create an art sculpture, and more!
Each youth will receive a kit of materials in the mail before class. Each experiment includes a lesson plan and “How To” recorded video to guide youth in doing the “at home” experiment before a weekly interactive “LIVE” Superheroes gathering. Youth will “show and tell” what they explored, tested, and discovered! Our 4-H Teen Superheros will lead these sharing sessions.
Online sessions will take place on Tuesdays, April 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 6:30 - 7:00 p.m. Visit MN 4-H for detailed information: https://z.umn.edu/MN4HGSOSSpring2024
Grow a Monster-Melon Challenge
Coming Soon, mark your calendar so you don't miss out!!! Join the Grow a Monster-Melon Challenge for an Epic Backyard Adventure!
Ready to turn your backyard into a vibrant oasis? Look no further! Our challenge is here to transform your summer with giant melon excitement!
Open to Kindergarten and up!
Register by March 20th for a free seed package and planting guide!
Get exclusive tips, content, and videos all summer long!
Share your progress for a chance to grow your melon in a mold!
Showcase your masterpiece at your local fair or fall contest!
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity! Join the Grow a Monster-Melon Mystery Challenge, registration begins March 1. Space is limited! Register through 4hOnline.
Quilt Quest 2024
Get Ready for Quilt Quest 2024! Youth 4th grade and up are invited to join Jodi and MaryAnn for a fun-filled quilting adventure! This FREE event will be held virtually Sundays starting February 25.
Learn more at https://extension.umn.edu/event/quilt-quest-2024
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.
Thank you
Many thanks to Cynthia Hammel and Andrea Wollak for coordinating Creative Arts Night! 4-H’ers were able to choose from a variety of projects to work on, which included; felting, drawing, block printing, string art, polymer clay and quilling. Special thanks to all of the instructors who taught the various sessions including 4-H youth Noelle Anderson!
Club Corners
Woodbury 4-H Club
Woodbury 4-H Club had a fun movie outing in February. The club rented a theater at the Woodbury 10 and watched Encanto, which won the most votes by members.
Riverside Routers 4-H Club
The Riverside Routers had voted to go snow tubing in February, but with the warmer weather we switched to bowling instead. We had a fun night at Pinz In Oakdale for a club outing!
Grant Gorgus (reporter)
Riverside Routers
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!
Need ideas for upcoming Spring Breaks? The solution - start working on County Fair Projects!
Most 4-H youth would say that the highlight of their 4-H experience is the county and/or state fair. The county fair provides youth an opportunity to showcase their projects and what they have learned over the past year. Most project areas (except for Photography and Creative Arts) do not have a limit on how many exhibits can be entered. Spring break season will soon be here, what better time than to start forming some ideas and getting a start on those fair projects! Need ideas on what to bring to the county fair? Check out the resource guide: County Fair Project Ideas
Remember to keep General/Static Project Judging Day open! - Saturday, July 27
County Fair week is; Wednesday, July 31 - August 4! Don’t miss the fun!
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.