4-H Youth Events

Columbia County 4-H Horse Classic - This event is an opportunity for youth enrolled in the Horse Project to demonstrate their knowledge of equine related subject matter through participation in Horse Judging, Hippology, Horse Bowl, Horse Public Speaking and Individual and Team Horse Presentation. These contests are the county selection process for those who wish to be considered for participation in the same events at the State Spring Horse Classic.

Teen Retreat - This is for 8-12 graders and usually happens in March. The Summer Camp Committee, along with the 4-H Extension agent, provides programs and events that will enhance leadership skills, and gives some insight into 4-H Summer Camp and its opportunities as counselors. They also plan an evening of fun and exciting activities. There is a fee and it includes food, lodging, and program supplies. For those who are considering serving as 4-H Summer Camp Counselors, this is a great opportunity to learn skills that will assist them at camp. Teen retreat will allow them to begin building bonds with others who may also be at camp and will give the Camp Committee opportunity to see them in action. Plan to attend this retreat and get a jump on a Leadership development program. Registration Form: Teen Retreat 2008

4-H Youth Fair - This event is held in May and is an excellent opportunity for members to gain experience and instruction in their animal project area before County Fair. Many, who are new to a project area, never compete with their project until the day at Fair. Many times this is not the best experience for the youth or parents. Youth Fair on the other hand is a place where a “safe and educational” environment is created and members learn and grow. They have opportunity to show their animals. This allows the member to practice what they have just learned. What does all this mean to the 4-H’er?  It means that they should attend, come with a spirit to learn new information, a desire to make their project better for County Fair, to have fun and to meet other 4-H’ers from Columbia County. Details on classes, show schedules, class fees and the registration form will be found in the Columbia Columns 4-H newsletter.

OSU Summer Conference - Every summer in June, Oregon State University is host to the State 4-H Summer Youth Conference. This conference, designed for youth in grades 7-12, is really several programs in one. The 4-H Summer Conference is a wonderful opportunity for youth of all ages and interests to explore and grow. And along with the learning, there is plenty of time for fun and interaction. For more information on the State 4-H Summer Conference, please visit the State 4-H web site.

Summer Camp - This is an overnight (four day, three night) camp usually held in June. There is a fee and it includes food, lodging, crafts, T-shirt, and insurance. This popular event offers the camper an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while learning about themselves and others. Children in 4-7 grades are eligible to attend. Members in grades 9-12 may apply to be a camp counselor. The program is planned and conducted almost entirely by the dedicated Camp Committee and many volunteers. The program typically consists of crafts, archery, nature hikes, wildlife programs, group games and campfires. The camp has a nurse on duty at all times and trained adults to help supervise activities. To become a 4-H Camp Counselor see "Leadership Opportunities."

Tractor Safety Course - Mike Greisen teaches the tractor safety course for Columbia County. The State of Oregon requires that all youth that are operating tractor/farm equipment, other than on their own home, have a Tractor Safety Certificate. This can only be obtained through a certified program. This course occurs in the spring, (every other year) based on the number of youth interested. If you are interested in attending the course, you need to contact the OSU Extension office for registration information. The course fee includes material and program supplies.

County Fair and Spring Contest Day -

• Spring Contest Day - This is the “fair contest” for Junior presentations and for all the Foods Contests. There usually is a record book clinic, as well as, an Adventure’s Workshop. As with county fair, the members will choose a time for their presentation, and food contest. This is held in April. The presentations and food contests are eligible for premiums.
• County Fair - County Fair is held each year in July. It is a time when 4-H members have an opportunity to show the results of their learning and efforts. It is also a chance for 4-H'ers to meet other members from across the county and share experiences and ideas with them. Participation at the Fair is not required, but members are missing an excellent opportunity for additional fun, enrichment, and learning. All 4-H'ers should be encouraged to participate in Fair if possible. To participate in the Fair, the child must be enrolled in 4-H by April 1 with the Extension office. Fair entry forms are due at the end of June. For more information concerning the Fair, consult the 4-H Fair premium book.

4-H State Fair - For those 4-H members who did exceptionally well at the County Fair level, there is a counterpart activity in the State Fair. 4-H'ers who are designated as State Fair eligible at the County Fair, will find details of entering their exhibits at the Extension office. Generally speaking, eligible 4-H members of static exhibits may be entered by 4-12 grade 4-H'ers and exhibits of those contests and activities requiring members presence at State Fair must be in the 7-12 grade. The State Fair is usually held during the last week of August through Labor Day.

Member and Leader Recognition Night - All Columbia County 4-H Leaders, Members and their families are invited each year to a fun-filled evening as they celebrate the past 4-H year, and as we honor and recognize 4-H leaders and members for their accomplishments. Leaders receive recognition pins and members will receive 1st, 2nd, and 3rd year membership pins, Record Book County Medals and the announcement of next year's Ambassadors is made. (RSVP Form: Please send into us by November 3rd.)