Friday Forecast - 6/3/22
Dakota County 4-H Weekly Newsletter- June 3, 2022
Welcome to the Dakota County 4-H Friday Forecast
Welcome to our two new interim staff in Dakota County
Welcome Brad Rugg and Taylor Jerde to Dakota County! Together, they are splitting time to support an open 4-H Extension educator (Anja Johnson's) position focusing on animal science and agriculture related programming.
Brad retired from University of Minnesota Extension a few years back after 33 years of service. Since 1992 he had coordinated animal science programs for Minnesota 4-H and served as Superintendent of 4-H programming at the Minnesota State Fair. After retirement, Brad served as an interim educator in Waseca County and worked as a program manager with the 4-H Regional Bowls.
Taylor recently graduated from South Dakota State University with a major in Dairy Production. Taylor grew up on her family’s fifth generation dairy farm near Northfield and was very involved in the Dakota County 4-H program; she brings extensive experience with various livestock species and exhibiting on the local, state, and national level. When not working for Dakota County 4-H, you can find her working in the barn or helping at her uncle's dairy farm in Hastings, Minnesota.
Brad can be reached at ruggx002@umn.edu and Taylor can be reached at tjerde@umn.edu.
Enroll in Dakota County 4-H before participating in 4-H activities
Before participating in any 4-H event/acticity, youth are required to re-enroll in 4-H Online 2.0. For liability purposes, 4-H’ers need to have a completed enrollment on file to participate in club, county and regional/state events. Enrollment support can be found here.
Families should submit the Family Member Dues Payment Form 2021-2022 prior to participating in 4-H events. Contact Cherie at frand004@umn.edu if you have questions. Dues payments can be mailed to the Extension Office or placed in the drop box between the front doors of the Extension Office. Scholarships are available to cover dues if needed and can be requested by completing the dues payment form.
4-H county membership dues of $25/member are paid every year. Please submit dues prior to participating in any 4-H events.Family Member Dues Payment Form 2021-2022
Contact Cherie at frand004@umn.edu if you have questions. Dues payments can be mailed to the Extension Office or placed in the drop box between the front doors of the Extension Office. Scholarships are available to cover dues if needed and can be requested by completing the dues payment form.
Plan ahead for visiting the Extension office
As we move into the summer months, staff will be out in the community delivering programs. We ask that you call or email to set up an appointment to assure that you get the assistance needed. If you have questions, contact 4-H staff. Staff contact information below.
How to register in 4-H Online for 4-H events/workshops
Registration for 4-H workshops and events will take place in 4-H Online. The 4-H Online event registration guide has step-by-step instructions to walk you through how to register. To register for an event in 4-H Online, the participant must be an active member in 4-H Online. 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. Please contact Cherie if you have questions.
Join the General Livestock Judging Team
Have you ever wondered what judges are looking for in evaluating your animals during a show? Do you know how to pick out your animals for a show? Have you ever wondered what criteria a judge has to judge the show?
Effectively evaluating breeding and market animals is highly important in the animal industry. Judging is an art developed through patient study and long practice. 4-H'ers interested in dairy, general livestock (beef, meat goat, sheep and swine), horses and rabbits can become good judges by knowing
- The parts of the animal and their locations
- Which parts are most important for meat and breeding stock production
- Making keen observations
- Comparing the animal to the ideal
- Weighing the good and bad points of each animal
We are currently working to put together a 4-H livestock judging team that teaches you those things. If you answered yes to any of the questions and are intrigued to learn more, make sure to fill out the interest survey and we will keep you updated as information becomes available.
This program is geared toward youth sixth grade and above however youth in grades 3-5 are welcome to participate!
Minnesota 4-H Livestock Judging Camp - June 13-15; register by June 3
Do you need help with structuring, completing and presenting a set of oral reasons? 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 any of these questions, then the Minnesota 4-H Livestock Judging Camp is for you! Camp will be held June 13-15 and is open to youth in grades 6-12. Cost is $130 and covers meals, lodging, activities, supplies and a camp t-shirt. Registration is due June 3.
Presented by the University of Minnesota Livestock Judging Team and Coach Kyle Rozeboom, you will learn the basic fundamentals of livestock judging and evaluation, receive instruction with oral reasons, and become more confident with livestock judging!
LQA&E Training - June 28
LQA&E training is scheduled for Tuesday, June 28 from 12:30-3:30 pm at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul Campus Beef Barn. Registration begins at 12:15 p.m.
Bussing provided from the Dakota County Extension office in Farmington. Email Cherie to reserve a spot on the bus.
Cost is $5 and will be collected at the door for supplies and snacks.
Registration required by Friday, June 24.
Livestock Quality Assurance (LQA&E) training helps youth provide excellent care for their food animals and ensure a high level of food safety to consumers.
All youth participating as a State Fair 4-H livestock exhibitor (must have completed 6th grade or higher) in beef, dairy, sheep, swine, poultry, rabbits, meat goat, dairy goat, and llama-alpaca must have completed a livestock quality assurance training by July 25.
If June 28 does not work for your schedule, additional trainings hosted by other counties and the YQCA training link can be found the MN 4-H Livestock Quality Assurance Training website.
Horseless Horse bi-weekly sessions
We are now partnering with Lucky U Stables (located at 11050 Manning Ave S, Hastings). Please complete their online waiver before attending a session at Lucky U.
Who: Dakota County 4-H members grades 3 through 1 year past high school
When: (updated 5/20/22): 7-8 p.m.– June 9 (Dakota County Fairgrounds), June 30 (Lucky U Stables, new date!), July 7 (Dakota County Fairgrounds), July 21 (Lucky U Stables), August 18 (Lucky U Stables, new date!)—Please note the June 23 session has been cancelled.
Where: Lucky U Stables (11050 Manning Ave S, Hastings) & Dakota County Fairgrounds Horse Arena (4008 220th St W, Farmington--see P on the fair map for arena location)
Cost: $60/participant; must be enrolled in 4-H Online prior to participating: download the payment form HERE.
A quick breakdown of the steps to participate in HLH:
Enroll in 4-H at 4-H Online; be sure to choose the Horseless Horse project option.
Submit your HLH dues using this form.
Complete the Lucky U Stables online waiver.
Contact Amber (shanahan@umn.edu) with questions.
Horse Clinics and Fun Show
Horse clinics are topic specific events that allow youth to dive deeper into pleasure, showmanship, games, and trail with a professional clinician. There may be a charge for the clinics depending on the content. Horseless Horse youth are invited to participate in all horse related clinics and events, though riding a horse is not permitted at these offerings for HLH youth. Please use this form to sign-up to participate. Sign-ups must be complete within one-week of the session; clinics will be cancelled if minimum participant numbers are not met within that one-week period. Clinics run from 6-8 p.m. For clinics that require payment, please send your check to the Dakota County 4-H office prior to the event (there will be no charge for Horseless Horse participants to attend). All events are tentatively scheduled to take place at the Dakota County Fairgrounds pending the arena construction schedule. Location changes will be communicated within one week of the event, if necessary.
Clinics & Fun Show Schedule:
- June 14—Showmanship ($10); register by June 7
- June 21—Pleasure (Western & English) ($10); register by June 14
- June 28—Games ($10); register by June 21
- July 12—Trail/Obstacles ($10); register by July 5
- July 19—Fun Show ($5)—Gates open at 5pm, check-in at 5:30pm, show begins at 6 p.m.; register by July 12
Dakota County 4-H Horse & Horseless Horse Camp - June 20; register by June 3
4-H Horse & Horseless Horse (HLH) camp will be held Monday, June 20 at the Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Horse and HLH Camp is a great way to expand your horse knowledge and skills. Camp activities include: clinicians teaching pleasure techniques and drills for game patterns; fun clinics Including horse treat making, educational talk on grooming, horse nutrition, and more about Western Heritage. Normal 4-H safety rules apply including use of an approved helmet, wearing boots and long pants while riding, no riding double, etc. Registration deadline is May 31.
Horse camp is open to 4-H members in grade 3 and older. Camp participants are required to have a parent/guardian present at all times during camp.
Camp schedule:
8 to 9 a.m. - camp registration
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Horse and Horseless Horse clinics and fun activities
4 to 5 p.m. - OPTIONAL desensitizing clinic.
Cost is $65 for horse participants; $40 for Horseless Horse participants
Registration open in 4-H Online. To register, log in, or if new to 4-H enroll, at 4-H Online. Refer to the 4-H Online event registration guide for step-by-step instructions.
Rabbit Agility practices starting June 9
What is Rabbit Agility? Rabbit Agility is like dog agility where animals maneuver through a course of equipment: over, under, around and through in a timed event/race. Rabbit Agility is fun and exciting for the animals, handlers and spectators and is a great way for 4-H’ers to spend a little extra time with their rabbits and learn some fun training tools. Rabbit agility is for 4-H members in grade 2 and older. This is not a state qualifying event. Rabbit Agility Registration Form
Practices will be held June 9, 23, 30, July 7 & 21 from 6-7 p.m. at the Rabbit Barn on the Dakota County Fairgrounds. June 23 and July 21 will include a rabbit agility workshop in addition to practice.
Clothing and textiles workshop - June 20
Dakota and Washington County 4-H members are invited to learn all about the Clothing and Textiles project with the amazing staff at Basic Needs Thrift Store in Cottage Grove. This workshop will include activities on constructed, upcycled, and purchased clothing. Youth will have assistance in creating outfits from professionals that would be a great start to a fashion revue or clothing project. The thrift store, normally closed on Mondays, will be open for 4-H'ers and their families from the start of the workshop until 9 p.m. This workshop has no cost, but if you want to make a donation to Basic Needs you are welcome to do so.
Who: Washington and Dakota County 4-H Members, grades K-13th
Where: Basic Needs Thrift Store: 6990 80th St S, Cottage Grove, MN 55016
When: Monday, June 20 from 6:15 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (the store will be open until 9 p.m. for any purchases). Parents must be present at 8 p.m. to pick up their child.
Please register by Monday, June 13.
If you have questions, contact Caitlin Rademacher at crademac@umn.edu4-H Sheep and Meat Goat workshop - June 29
Dakota County 4-H is hosting a sheep and meat goat workshop on Wednesday, June 29 beginning at 5 p.m. at the Dakota County Fairgrounds, in the Children’s Barnyard. The workshop is for meat goat and sheep 4-H members in grade 3 and older. Youth grades 3-5 must have a parent or guardian present. Topics include showmanship, fitting, lamb lead, skill-a-thon and livestock judging. Pizza will be provided.
Members should bring one lamb or goat, fitting stand, clippers, soap, hose, and a blower.
The workshop is free but participants must register in 4-H Online by June 24. The 4-H Online event registration guide has step-by-step instructions to walk you through how to register. To register for an event in 4-H Online, the participant must be an active member in 4-H Online.
Dog Training every Monday night; registration required
Dog Training Class are underway!
It's not too late to sign-up to participate in In-person dog training classes on Monday nights at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center, 4100 220th St. West in Farmington. See the Dog Training schedule for specific times and dates for each discipline. Registration deadline is May 16.
Complete the Dog Training Registration form and submit with payment before attending training class; but no later than May 16. Registration required before attending training.
Before attending any dog training classes, all dog vaccinations must be up-to-date.
Summer day camp counselor opportunities - apply by June 10
Dakota County 4-H staff are looking for enthusiastic, positive youth leaders to volunteer as day camp counselors for two different day camps this summer. Any youth who has completed 7th grade and up is welcome to apply.
- Wednesday, June 29- K-3rd Grade (7:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m.); Training: June 22 (6-7:30 p.m.)
- Thursday, July 13- 4-5th Grade (7:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m.); Training: July 6 (6-7:30 p.m.)
Camps will be in-person, day-long experiences at the Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington. Responsibilities of camp counselors include: leading small groups through activities where youth will learn about butterflies, caterpillars, bugs, and bees (no live bees), playing games, activities, and crafts. Counselors must attend the mandatory training sessions prior to camp to review activities. Counselors receive a free camp t-shirt as well as snacks and beverages.
Applications are due June 10 via 4-H Online 2.0. Application can be found under Events - Dakota County Day Camp Counselors needed. If you have any questions contact Kirsten Pederson or Rachel Rezac.
4-H Day Camp registration is open!
Registration is now open for the 2022 4-H day camps being held at the Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington! Campers will learn about the world of butterflies, caterpillars, bugs, and bees (NO LIVE BEES). This entomology-inspired camp will feature live animals, games, activities, and crafts. All participants receive a camp t-shirt if registered by camp deadline. Campers must have completed Kindergarten to attend. University of Minnesota staff and trained counselors will ensure your camper has a blast! Camp is open to youth in grades K-5, so invite your non-4-H friends to join you for a day of fun! Camp will run from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $35/camper.
- Camp for grades K-3: Wednesday, June 29; register by June 4
- Camp for grades 4-5: Wednesday, July 13; register by June 19
DAY CAMP REGISTRATION:
Registration for 4-H camp will take place in 4-H Online. The 4-H Online event registration guide has step-by-step instructions to walk you through how to register. To register for an event in 4-H Online, the participant must be an active member in 4-H Online. 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. Under Events, select the Dakota County 4-H Day Camp that fits your grade level. Please contact Cherie if you have questions.
Note: Current health and safety protocol issued from the University of Minnesota, in regards to Covid, will be followed at the time of camp. Staff strive to hold as many activities outdoors as is possible, weather permitting.
Shooting Sports & Wildlife range practice are going! We welcome you to join!
Are you new to the Shooting Sports & Wildlife (SS&W) program? Have you signed up for the SS&W project area in prior years but haven’t attended any SS&W activities? If so, now is the time to learn more and get involved.
RANGE START DATES:
The SS&W program has activities ranging from hikes and picnics (even in the winter) to learning how to safely handle archery, air rifles and pistols, shotguns, .22 rifles and muzzleloading firearms. The SS&W program is for youth grade 3 and older. Participants must be enrolled in 4-H Online before participating in any range activities.
RANGE UPDATE:
Like last year, we will practice trap on Saturdays until mid-June, then switch to Wednesday evenings. We expect to start our practices for the other disciplines at Dakota County Gun Club on Thursday, May 19. Watch your email for more details in the next couple weeks.
For more information on SS&W contact Peter Vogel at vogel4h@gmail.com or Abby Wagner at torg0016@umn.edu.
4-H Archery Camp and Nature Exploration - June 22-24
Join 4-H for a three-day camp experience filled with fun, hands-on activities including archery, outdoor exploration, arts & crafts, nature play and more. Youth will spend time learning the ins and outs of archery, including lots of target practice with the support of certified instructors. We’ll journey through Keller Regional Park to discover the wonders of the natural world around us. Our 4-H leadership team is composed of 4-H staff, certified archery instructors and trained camp counselors who will lead program activities throughout the week, creating a friendly and welcoming environment for all. Central region youth in grades 3-9. This is intended for both youth who are new to archery and youth who have some experience.
4-H Archery Camp and Nature Exploration Camp is June 22-24 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Keller Regional Park & Archery Range, 2166 Maplewood Drive, Maplewood. Cost $40; scholarships available. Register for camp in 4-H Online.
New this year, grades 3-5 will be added to the older kid's show! Registration materials coming soon; registration is due July 1.
Please complete this interest form to receive more details. Watch future editions of Friday Forecast for more information.
Arts-In is a performing arts summer program for youth grade 3 and above. All participants are cast in the show and learn a 30-minute original musical during the encampment. Arts-In shows are filled with singing, acting, choreography, and a whole lot of creative energy and fun! The shows are performed at the Dakota County Fair.
Your commitment will require you to be available for the following scheduled events:
- Arts-In Auditions: July 17 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Dakota County Extension Office
- Arts-In Encampment: July 24-27 (depending on your part in the show, times and dates will vary) held at the Dakota County Extension Office
- Fair Rehearsal Dates: To be Determined
- Arts-In County Fair Performances: August 12, 13, 14
If you have any questions please contact Abby at torg0016@umn.edu
Tasty Tuesdays: Delicious Dairy Days Edition begin June 14
Celebrate June Dairy Month with us! Let’s make some ice cream, visit with Princess Kay of the Milky Way and dip some fresh fruit into some homemade whipped cream! What better way to start the summer! Tasty Tuesdays: Delicious Dairy Edition is open to youth in Kindergarten through one year past high school.
Tasty Tuesdays sessions will be held online on Tuesdays from 2 to-3 p.m. Online sessions are free, but pre-registration required to receive link.
Weekly topics include:
June 14 - Rockin and Rollin with Ice Cream
June 21 - Shake it up with Princess Kay of the Milky Way
June 28 - Whip it up with Fruit!
Registration is required in 4-H Online. For registration assistance, please refer to the event registration guide or contact Jeannie Ward at wardx064@umn.edu or Suzanne Souza at souza004@umn.edu If you are new to 4-H, please select the “Virtual 4-H” club for your county. In the projects field, choose Foods & Nutrition and any other project areas of interest.
Minnesota State Fair Scholarship due Aug. 1
Engineering Design Challenge - teams forming now
In the 4-H Engineering Design Challenge, youth develop critical thinking, creativity, innovation and problem solving skills, and have fun at the same time! Each year, teams of youth in grades 3 and up and family teams solve a theme-based engineering challenge. The 2022 challenge is to design and build a machine to save energy by turning a light on and off.
While working with caring adults, teams apply engineering principles to plan and build a machine that completes a task. Minnesota 4-H supports volunteer coaches every step of the way with curriculum, project ideas and learning activities. No expertise is required.
If you are interested in being on a team email Abby at torg0016@umn.edu. We are looking for coaches too!
Hoof Trimming Clinic with Dave Capatske-July 16
Everyone is invited to a hoof trimming clinic at the Goodhue County Fairgrounds on July 16th. Dave Capatske will come and discuss/demonstrate hoof health and maintenance for beef and dairy cattle. There will also be a vet on hand to discuss common cattle issues such as warts and ringworm. Light lunch to provided to registered participants. Pre-registration required.
When: July 16 from 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Goodhue County Fairgrounds
Who: 4-H members in grade 3 and older
Ag Academy: Passion to Career
Join us, as well as our partners at FFA, for Ag Academy: Passion to Career– a unique opportunity for youth in grades 5 - 8. This three-day, two-night camp runs from June 28 - 30, and is located at Southwest Minnesota State University in Marshall, Minn. At this camp, youth will have the chance to explore different careers in agriculture 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.
4-H and JOANN
Purchases made with the JOANN 4-H Rewards card help support the opportunity for all kids to experience hands on learning. Custom 4-H fabric is now available at JOANN stores or online. See the fabric designs. Share your creations on social media with #JOANNLOVES4H.
Sign up to become a Dakota County 4-H Ambassador!
Sign-up here to participate in the 2021-22 Ambassador program.
The Dakota County 4-H Ambassador program allows youth to take part in activities to help them become leaders and good citizens. A 4-H Ambassador is a self-motivated, enthusiastic leader who promotes the organization using the skills, knowledge, and leadership abilities acquired in 4-H. They serve to strengthen the 4-H program through public relations and serve as a positive role model for younger members. Some past activities include: participating in community service projects, planning and leading Cloverbud activities, and promoting 4-H throughout Dakota County. Contact Rachel for information on the Ambassador program.
Farmfest invites 4-H clubs to create hay bale sculptures
Farmfest is inviting 4-H clubs and FFA chapters to design and build hay bale sculptures to be displayed and auctioned at Farmfest 2022, Aug. 2 - 4, in Redwood County. Proceeds from the sale of each sculpture go directly to the youth group. Reach out to rachelg@fb.org with questions. Entries are due June 30. Check out details, rules, and the entry form.
4-H Plastic Art Sculpture Challenge is back for 2022
Youth, clubs and families are invited to make an amazing piece of art by repurposing (upcycling) single-use or "found" plastics! So much fun is in store! Watch for details, tips, and news of the 4-H BIG Build in the coming weeks!
This great challenge combines art, engineering design, science, environmental sustainability, service, and creativity! The challenge is open to all ages as individuals, teams, clubs, and family groups!
How to become a 4-H judge for fairs and 4-H events
Judging makes 4-H competitions possible! To be a judge, you don't need to be 4-H alum or an expert. You do need to know how to evaluate the learning that a 4-H'er has done. We will train you to do that.
Once you are signed up as a judge and have done your basic training, your name will be in our judges database, which 4-H staff use to locate judges for events. Some projects require specialist judging training. Find out how to become a judge.
Seeking 4-H project workshop instructors and ideas
Do you have a special interest or skill to share? Have an idea for a workshop or a connection for a workshop that you feel the 4-H’ers would enjoy? Let us know!!! 4-H staff are looking for volunteers to help lead new workshops this winter. If you have an interest in leading a workshop or have a suggestion of a great new idea please contact Abby.
Some specific classes looking for instructors include;
- Valentines Candy/ Cookie Decorating
- Fishing Sports- fishing lure making
- Graphic Design
- Cultural Cooking
- Shop/ Wood Science
- Photography
- Drama/ Theatre/ Performing Arts
- Career Exploration
- Demonstrations
Hosts needed for Free Little Pantries
The leading a 4-H club web page has launched
Resources for club leaders and volunteers leading a 4-H club have been reorganized. Explore these categories: Beginning the 4-H year, leading a 4-H club meeting (organized around a sample agenda), managing 4-H club operations, and ways to support club members. Suggest improvements to the site by using the gray “feedback” button on the right side of the screen.
Club project kits available
- Crop art
- Geology
- Water Color
- MN Birds
- STEM
- Wood Burning
- Snowshoes
- Cooking Kits
Summer State and Regional Offerings:
June 14-17, YELLO
September 9-11, State Shooting Sports Invitational
September 16-19, MN 4-H State Horse Show
September 24 & 25, MN 4-H State Dog Show
Summer Camps:
June 13-15 - Resident Camp - Grades 3-8- Baker Outdoor Learning Center in Maple Plain
June 29 - Day camp - grade K-3 - Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington
July 13 - Day camp - grade 4-5 - Dakota County Fairgrounds in Farmington
Judging Dates/Fair Dates:
- July 11 - Fair Entry registrations due in FairEntry.com
- July 20 - Photography, Computer, and Video judging
- July 21 - Demonstration and Illustrated Presentation judging
- July 31- Dog Show Judging
- August 3 - Clothing and Fashion Revue judging
- August 5 - Oversized exhibit drop off
- August 6 - Static/Indoor project judging
- August 8-14 - Dakota County Fair
Dakota County 4-H Contacts
Abby Wagner: torg0016@umn.edu, 651-480-7752
Rachel Rezac: reza0027@umn.edu, 651-480-7754
Kirsten Pederson: kapeders@umn.edu, 651-480-7722
Cherie Frandrup: frand004@umn.edu, 651-480-7702
Website: https://extension.umn.edu/local/dakota
Location: 4100 220th Street West, Suite 101, Farmington, MN, USA
Phone: 651-480-7700
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dakota.county4h