Dear 4-H Families, Volunteers, and Leaders,
We are thrilled that fair season is just around the corner. It is a chance to showcase all the hard work our members have put into their projects, celebrate their achievements, and come together as a 4-H community. We can’t wait to see the amazing exhibits, livestock, and demonstrations that will be on display.As we gear up for the festivities, we also want to take a moment to share a critical reminder about our partnership with fairs and the boundaries of 4-H programming. This is especially important for those considering participation in the King County Livestock Auction or any open class shows.
A Clear Distinction: 4-H vs. Fair-Run Events
WSU Extension and 4-H are proud partners with our fairs for all official 4-H activities. However, it is essential to understand that not everything that happens at the fairgrounds is a 4-H event.The King County Livestock Market is a completely separate entity that runs its own show and auction. Likewise, any open class shows are operated solely under the authority of the Fair, not 4-H.When these open events take place:
- 4-H does not manage or staff the activity.
- 4-H volunteers and members are not acting in a 4-H capacity.
- 4-H liability and medical insurance does not apply.
What This Means for You
If you choose to participate in the King County Livestock Auction or any open class show—whether as a 4-H member or as a volunteer—you are doing so in a non-4-H capacity.
That means:
- No workers’ compensation coverage from 4-H is in effect.
- No medical coverage through 4-H is available for injuries or incidents that occur during these events.
- You participate entirely at your own risk.
What to Do If an Incident Occurs During a 4-H Activity
While we hope for a safe and enjoyable fair for everyone, it’s important to be prepared. If an incident or injury occurs while you are acting in a 4-H capacity (for example, during a scheduled 4-H show, judging event, or in the 4-H barns):
- Seek emergency medical care immediately if needed. The health and safety of our members and volunteers is always the top priority.
- Notify 4-H staff as soon as possible after any emergency care is given. Prompt communication allows us to support you properly. For 4-H incidents, notify 4-H staff first. We will notify Expo center as needed.
- Fill out an incident report. You can find the form online or use a paper form in the Superintendent box/binders.
- Work with 4-H staff on how to file a medical claim, if needed. Please be aware that members and volunteers have slightly different claim procedures, but our staff are here to walk you through each step and answer any questions you may have.
Questions?
If you have any questions about what is and isn’t a 4-H-sanctioned activity, or about incident reporting procedures, please reach out to your local 4-H Extension office. We are here to help you navigate these partnerships safely and confidently.Thank you for your continued dedication to 4-H. We wish everyone a fantastic, fun, and safe fair season!
Fair
The King County Fair is almost here! Even if you are not competing this year don’t miss out on the fun and excitement July 16-19 at the Enumclaw Expo Center.
- Still Life entry is due by July 3rd at 10PM
- Still Life drop off is July 11th at the Expo Center from 11AM-3PM
Cook Shack volunteers NEEDED
Adults and youth 12 yrs and older can earn money (up to $15 per hr) for their club or project by working in the 4-H Cook Shack at King County Fair. Senior members may request their earned dollars be held for them to participate in 4-H events. Any leftover income goes to supporting awards for Fair. Shifts are two hrs and are either Cashier/front window service or food preparation. Those signing up need to give their name, not the name of the club or project. Emails are required. Parents not enrolled as volunteers are welcome to sign up. We especially need adults or senior members to work behind the grill. There will be no sign-ups after Tuesday, July 15.
Day Camp
Mark your calendar for King County 4-H Day Camp, happening August 4–7, 2026, from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM at the King County Extension Office in Renton.
Youth ages 9–12 are invited to spend a week exploring hands-on science, including environmental science, food science, animal science, and textile engineering. Be a scientist for the week, be a scientist for life!
Registration is $50 per participant, with fee waivers available. You do not have to be a 4-H member to come!
Register here until July 31st
Association
There will be no July association meeting due to the fair. The next meeting will be August 13th. View June’s meeting minutes here.
Call to Parents of 4-H Youth: National 4-H Index Study
Washington State University 4-H invites youth ages 13–18 to participate in the annual National 4-H Index Study, which helps measure the impact of 4-H programs nationwide. Participation is voluntary, and parents provide consent by allowing their child to complete the survey. Youth may skip questions or stop at any time.
The survey takes approximately 15–25 minutes and focuses on 2025 4-H experiences. All parent information was shared via 4-H Online email. If participating, please complete the survey by July 15, 2026.
Access the survey: National 4-H Youth Survey
For questions, contact Alyssa Bowers (alyssa.bowers1@wsu.edu) or Kayla Wells-Yoakum (kayla.wells@wsu.edu). Thank you for supporting this important effort.
Upcoming Temple Grandin Event
Temple Grandin, a leading voice in animal behavior and welfare, will be speaking at Carnation Farms on Saturday, August 1. Drawing from more than 50 years of research, Grandin will share insights from her latest book and the work that has helped shape modern livestock practices. The evening begins with doors opening at 6:00 PM, followed by the presentation at 7:00 PM, a Q&A and book signing at 8:15 PM, and concludes at 9:00 PM. The event will take place at Carnation Farms, 28901 NE Carnation Farm Road in Carnation. Presale tickets are $74.95, with limited parking available, so carpooling is encouraged.
Community Highlights
Lucas Cooper, Seattle City Slickers 4-H Club, bringing learning to life at Center High School Field Day—one duck at a time!