RICKREALL, Ore. — Tawnya Reitz traveled halfway across the state in February so her children could attend Critter Campus, a long-running Oregon State University Extension Service event for 4-H’ers interested in small animals.
“This event makes a huge impact, especially for younger or more nervous kids who want a safe place to learn and begin developing the life skills that 4-H teaches."
Their vehicle was a critter-free zone.
“We didn’t bring any animals,” said Reitz, who lives in John Day, about 5½ hours away. “It seems stressful to bring an animal this far.”
Critter Campus is a small animal education day that has been hosted in Polk County for more than 30 years. The hands-on event highlights rabbits, cavies, poultry, pigeons and doves, and cats. Participants are encouraged — but not required — to bring their project animals.
Reitz’s oldest daughter is a 4-H junior, meaning she’s at the age when youths begin deeper project-based learning and can participate in competitive events such as animal showing, public speaking and leadership activities.
“She wants to bring her hamster to the Grant County Fair this year,” Reitz said. “There aren’t any hamsters here, but cavies are close. She wants to explore the world of small animals.”
For Reitz, the trip also brought back memories of her own 4-H experience.
“I have fond memories of coming over to the Willamette Valley when I was a kid and meeting people,” she said.
A full day of learning
The main building at the Polk County Fairgrounds & Event Center buzzed with activity. Throughout the day, 42 classes were held for junior 4-H’ers, parents and volunteers.
On one side of the room, rows of 4-H’ers sat with rabbits on tables in front of them, just as they would at a formal show. Cavies, also known as guinea pigs, were set up nearby. Every few minutes, a rooster’s crow echoed through the space.
Classes were taught by registered judges, 4-H professionals, industry experts, veterinarians, seasoned volunteers, 4-H alumni and experienced 4-H’ers.
“This event makes a huge impact, especially for younger or more nervous kids who want a safe place to learn and begin developing the life skills that 4-H teaches,” said Andrea Hunter, 4-H faculty and coordinator in Polk County, who organizes Critter Campus.
This year’s event drew 182 participants from 13 Oregon counties and Clark County, Washington.
Back by popular demand
After starting in the 1990s, Critter Campus paused for several years before returning in 2024, when more than 120 youths and their families attended.
“This event has been instrumental for the mid-Willamette Valley and all of Oregon’s small animal project development,” Hunter said. “I attended Critter Campus when I was a 4-H’er, and it helped get me where I am today.”
Families again traveled long distances to attend. Aubrey Gibson and her two children came from Condon, about 3½ hours away, bringing rabbits and poultry.
“I appreciate the variety of subjects and the quality of speakers,” said Gibson, a 4-H poultry leader in Gilliam County.
Tina Twarowski drove 2½ hours from Roseburg with rabbits and cavies.
“It was an opportunity for our new juniors to practice in a show setting,” she said. “We learned a lot about biosecurity and public speaking.”
Youth teaching youth
Linda Eubank, a 4-H volunteer who taught a rabbit class, helped originate Critter Campus and coined its name.
“The idea was to give kids learning opportunities,” Eubank said. “This is more about kids teaching each other.”
Older 4-H’ers played leadership roles throughout the day. Elizabeth Neese, a Polk County 4-H member, helped conduct rabbit health checks and taught a class on preparing rabbits for show.
“I’m motivated to see younger 4-H’ers succeed and be curious,” Neese said. “It’s an amazing experience.”
Something for every interest
Cats — required to be on leashes or harnesses — had their own room. Kristen Moore, 4-H faculty and companion animal specialist, led sessions on preparing for cat shows.
For Kahlan Halbrook, a 10-year-old 4-H’er from Albany, the appeal was simple.
“I love cats and want to learn more about them,” she said.
Hunter, already planning for next year, looks forward to seeing returning participants grow into teaching roles.
“Part of what makes 4-H special is elevating youth voice,” she said. “These kids want to give back. Events like this help them build skills that last far beyond K–12.”
Previously titled Critter Campus teaches 4-H youths about small animals
