4-H Participation Strong as County Program Looks Ahead

by Trinity Gruenberg

trinity@inhnews.com

The Wadena County Commissioners held their regular meeting on Tuesday. September 1. Board Chair Ron Noon was absent.

4-H Update

Extension Educator Jeanette Watland gave an update on 4-H summer activities and shared that this year’s county fair involved significant changes, as 4-H moved its main projects and activities to Building 2. Many volunteers helped with set-up and tear-down, and participation was strong on judging days. Cloverbud members (grades K–2) showcased 148 projects, while older youth submitted 423. In livestock, 111 youth completed interviews, and there were 232 horse entries, qualifying eight youth for the state horse show in September.

Watland noted solid participation in categories like beef, dairy cattle, goats, sheep, rabbits, poultry, and swine, with many animals shown in multiple classes. Showmanship participation, where youth are judged on handling skills, was particularly encouraging. Other fair highlights included a cake-decorating contest and Barnyard Olympics with plans to adjust next year’s schedule for younger participants.

The 4-H dog show took place at the Maslowski Wellness and Research Center, attracting 15 youth. No locals advanced to the state dog show, but at the Minnesota State Fair, 17 Wadena County youth competed, earning several awards including first place ribbons and a championship banner in sheep.

Looking ahead, 23 youth are registered for the state shooting sports event, eight for the state horse show, and six for the Northeast Livestock Show. Watland also announced that Ashley Kovar is Wadena County’s first state 4-H ambassador in 30 years. This fall, a monthly Cloverbud program will start, and the county ambassador program will be restructured as leadership changes occur. Watland praised the volunteers and dedicated parents, highlighting the strong commitment of Wadena County’s youth to their projects and learning...

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