4-H Staff & Superintendents
Cat
megbrown2011@gmail.com
Dog
Equine
4-H Judging Contests
k-rose92@hotmail.com
Large Animal Round Robin
milene.henley@gmail.com
Livestock – Main
Livestock – Assistant
Performing Arts
Poultry
eliza@rockisland.com
Public Presentations
Rabbit and Cavy
adamonfarm@gmail.com
Small Animal Round Robin
Still Life – Staff
Still Life – Volunteer
Still Life – Volunteer
Still Life Auction
Policies and Rules
All 4-H members, their families, and leaders, please read the following instructions carefully as well as those in Open Class. Every 4-H member must know and understand the rules and regulations pertaining to their individual project areas. If you have questions, please call the WSU Extension Office at (360) 378-4414.
In general, refer to the WA State 4-H Policy and Procedure Handbook
Requirements to Participate at the San Juan County Fair and Receive Premium Points
- Meet enrollment deadlines for the current year.
- Meet animal ownership deadlines as stated in the Washington State University 4-H Policy and Procedure Handbook.
- Submit Fair Entry registration by deadline.
- Meet all other deadlines and requirements for project areas (i.e. Market Animal Forms, Horse Certificates, and Horse Lease Agreements).
Requirements for State Fair Participation and Exhibition
In addition to the department rules, eligibility for State Fair includes completion of the San Juan County requirements for member Year-End Completion (refer to San Juan County 4-H Leaders Council Policy). Your club leader can confirm whether your child has met county year‑end completion requirements.
General Rules and Information
- Eligible members must have reached their 8th birthday by October 1 of the current 4-H year to be eligible for competitive situations, including livestock shows and auction sales.
- Premium Points are only given to eligible members. Premiums will be paid on a per point basis, with the amount per point determined by the County Fair Board. Cloverbud members are not eligible to compete but may participate in noncompetitive situations. They will not receive premium money but will receive a ribbon for their efforts.
- Cloverbuds (ages 5–7) participate in non‑competitive activities. For safety, Cloverbuds do not participate in shooting sports or the handling/showing of large animals in competitive rings. Counties may offer age‑appropriate, hands‑on experiences outside of competition per State policy.
- According to the WA State Fairs Commission Guidelines for Evaluation of County Fair, every exhibit in the Fair must be in place for public viewing for at least seven hours to qualify for premium points. The SJC Fair Board intends to comply with this guideline.
- 4-H uses the Danish System of judging. The Judge will determine Best of Show, Award of Achievement or Award of Merit if warranted. Groups or Club entries will be awarded one rosette.
- In each 4-H Department, a Grand Champion rosette ribbon will be awarded to the highest qualifying blue-ribbon recipient, and a Reserve Champion rosette ribbon will be awarded to the next highest at the discretion of the department judge.
- No entries will be accepted or judged that were part of a school assignment or evaluated at a previous time or event.
- All exhibits must have been made or produced by the 4-H member during the current 4-H year. Please refer to the Washington 4-H Policy and Procedure Handbook for livestock exceptions and animal ownership requirements.
- Washington State 4-H Fair: contact the SJ Co. Extension Office at (360)378-4414 for more information on awards and qualifications to participate or visit the state fair website for details.
- Department Superintendents and other Fair officials have the authority to make management decisions regarding the 4-H Fair exhibits and entries within their departments as set by 4-H Leaders Council and the Washington State 4-H Program.
- Animal Barns close at 8 PM Sunday evening of Fair. Animals and décor may be taken off the grounds after this time. You are responsible for the cleaning of your pen and project area before Monday evening after Fair, or when you haul out, whichever is earliest.
- The 4-H Still Life building closes at 8 PM Sunday evening of Fair. Exhibits are allowed to be removed at 8 PM Sunday or Monday between 9 AM and noon.
- NO EXHIBITS MAY BE REMOVED FROM THE FAIRGROUNDS PRIOR TO 8:00 PM SUNDAY. Exhibitors who remove their exhibits from the fair before 8:00 pm Sunday will not receive premiums and may not be able to exhibit at the San Juan County Fair in the future.
- 4-H exhibits at the San Juan County Fair are entered and displayed at the risk of the exhibitor. San Juan County 4-H Leaders Council, San Juan County Fair Board, Washington State University, nor the San Juan County Fair can accept responsibility for loss or damage due to conditions imposed by large crowds, arrangements in the buildings in which displays are housed and the number of exhibits. 4-Hers who have exhibits of great sentimental or monetary value should carefully consider whether such exhibits should be exposed to possible hazards at the fair.
- Premium points are awarded exclusively for participation during the scheduled days of the Fair or officially sanctioned pre-fair contests. Individual requests to reschedule judging, presentations, or exhibits for dates outside the Official Schedule will not be accommodated, and those entries will be ineligible for premiums. All pre-fair qualifying entries must be displayed during the fair to retain premium eligibility.
Age Divisions are determined by the members age as of October 1 of the current 4-H year.
- Cloverbud division: 5 to 7 years of age
- Junior division: 8 to 10 years of age
- Intermediate division: 11 to 13 years of age
- Senior division: 14 to less than 19 years of age
4-H program participants & volunteers are expected to abide by 4-H dress code during Fair:
- Articles of clothing, which display profanity, products, or slogans, which promote tobacco, alcohol, drugs, sex, or advertise gang symbols or affiliation are prohibited.
- Items of clothing, which expose bare midriffs, bare chests/cleavage, undergarments, or that are transparent (see-through) are prohibited. Super short shorts, halter- tops, tube shirts, and spaghetti strap (less than one inch) tops are not appropriate.
- All 4-H exhibits, regardless of project area or department, must be entered into Fair Entry by July 15 at 9:59 pm (PT) in order to qualify for Premium Points.
- Still Life exhibits will be accepted in the Marie Boe 4-H Building on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Exceptions are for Educational Posters, Photography, Stall Stories, and some Communicative Arts exhibits (Classes Q-V) which are due Sunday before Fair from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm,and no later than 9:00 AM Monday of Fair week at the Marie Boe 4-H Building. They may also be delivered to the Extension Office any time prior to the Sunday before fair. All exhibits must be submitted properly tagged prior to entering. Entries will not be accepted after 9:00 AM Monday of Fair week.
- Small and large animal exhibits must be entered by 2:00 PM on Wednesday, August 12, 2026
- Special Needs and Accommodations: Please refer to and complete the form located in the WSU 4-H Reasonable Accommodation Policy two weeks or more prior to the event and forward to the WSU Extension Office 4-H staff.
- Notify the Superintendent of the Project Area and Extension Staff on entry day to Fair.
- All entries must be appropriately tagged when submitted for judging. Please see individual department rules for additional directions where they apply.
- Only one entry is permitted in each lot (unless noted within the department).
- All youth entering must be currently enrolled 4-H members in San Juan County. They may enter only for the projects in which they are enrolled. The deadline to exhibit in 4-H at the San Juan County Fair is March 1 of each year for animal entries and June 1 of each year for still life entries. It is possible to enroll in 4-H after June 1, but the youth cannot exhibit in the 4-H Division. These youth may exhibit in Open Class.
- Each exhibitor must be enrolled in the appropriate Self-Determined Project by the enrollment deadlines.
- If a Club is not available with the project focus, the youth may work with a Project or Resource Leader to plan for the exhibit. This could be a parent, teacher, or other adult.
- Within a Club, a “Self-Determined 4-H Project” should reflect individual endeavor beyond the scope of typical project work within this club. The exhibit may be the actual product of the project (e.g. rebuilt diesel engine – Mechanical Science exhibit), or may be a visual presentation of the work done (e.g., photos of steps in cleaning oil from waterfowl, and accompanying information – Environmental Stewardship)
- See the State Fair Premium Book for details on entry for Self-Determined Projects.
If an Exhibitor, Parent or other Volunteer has a grievance at the San Juan County Fair, they must follow the steps below to resolve the grievance:
- Prior to any grievance being filed the party or parties with any question or grievance are required speak directly to the Project Area Leader for rule clarification and explanation.
- Project leaders and/or Project Area Superintendent must maintain objectivity in any grievance, while providing information on rules and circumstances regarding the specifics of the grievance.
- If the perception of objectivity is at question by the person reporting the grievance, the Project Leader/Superintendent is advised to include another Project Leader/Superintendent from another project area to participate in the Grievance Action Steps required by grievance.
- In the circumstance that the grievance involves actions or inactions by the Project Leader, Project Area Superintendent or WSU employee, a written grievance may be filed immediately and directly to the Extension Office, bypassing the Grievance Action Steps. The Extension Office is then required to present the written grievance to the Grievance Committee Chairman.
Grievance Action Steps
- The Exhibitor, Parent or other Volunteer with a grievance at the San Juan County Fair will meet with the Project Leader to discuss the grievance. The Project Leader will answer questions regarding the grievance by referring to the Superintendent Notebook** or by directing the question or grievance to the 4-H Project Area Superintendent.
- The Project Area Superintendent follows the same procedure as the Project Leader with a greater degree of authority, resolving or directing the question or grievance on to the San Juan County Extension Director.
- The San Juan County Extension Director follows the same procedure as the Project Leader and the 4-H Superintendent with a greater degree of authority and may decide to consult with other experts in the questioned area. Any action, inaction or waiver requested or directed by the State Program Director must be submitted in writing. A duplicate copy must be provided to all parties involved including the San Juan County 4-H Leaders Council.
- If none of the above Grievance Action Steps satisfies the question or grievance, a written question or a written grievance will be filed with the San Juan County Extension Director within 12 Fair open hours (10am to 10 pm) of the action causing the question or grievance. The filing of the written question or grievance will be accompanied by a non-refundable $50.00 fee, which will be deposited in the SJC Leaders Council General Fund.
- Upon receipt of the written question or grievance and the $50.00 filing fee, the San Juan County Extension Director will refer the matter to the Grievance Committee, which will be in contact daily. The Extension Office will appoint a Grievance Committee Chair that will arrange daily (Wednesday through Sunday) contact hours with Extension staff and other committee members (such as each evening of the Fair at 5:00). Contact hours will vary year-to-year based on grievance committee member availability. The Grievance Committee will then make a decision based firstly on rules, policy and procedure, and secondly on verbal reporting and/or evidence produced by the parties involved. The Grievance Committee or WSU Staff will provide a response to the griever within 12 Fair open hours (10 am to 10 pm) of the time the grievance was received by WSU Staff.
The San Juan County Extension Director prior to the SJC Fair will appoint the Grievance Committee. Grievance committee members cannot be Project Leaders or Project Superintendents of any 4-H Program. If members of the grievance have any reason why they may not be an objective party to the incident, they must recuse themselves to maintain the objectivity of the committee.
**Superintendent Notebook contains the Washington State Rulebook, the Project Books, the San Juan County Fair Premium Book and a list of all leaders, superintendents, and 4-H State officials related to the project area.
- No cell phone, tablet or electronic devices may be used while on herdsmanship duty, in the show ring or horse arena while competing, practicing or warming up.
- 4-H Leaders must notify the appropriate 4-H Superintendents of the Animal Departments of the number and type of animals that will be exhibited by their 4-H members at the Fair by August 1 of the current year.
- Please review “Special Instructions to Livestock Exhibitors” and “Sheep and Goat Scrapie Requirements” listed at the beginning of the Open Class section. These apply to 4-H exhibitors, unless otherwise noted here.
- 4-H animal exhibitors are required to participate in Showmanship, Judging and Herdsmanship. Any exhibitor not participating in these required classes will forfeit all premium points, awards and eligibility to sell at auction. The only exception to this rule is for showmanship waivers that are approved prior to Fair.
- Any animal exhibited may be used for 4-H judging contests.
- Animal exhibitors must be present to show their own animals in type classes unless prior arrangements are made with the Superintendent before showing time. All exhibitors must be present to show their own animals in Showmanship classes with the exception of those members who have a waiver approved by the Livestock Market Animal Auction Committee, prior to Fair.
- Shared Animals -Two members may jointly care for and show one animal. These two 4-H members may not compete in the same class or lot at an event. A shared animal agreement form must be submitted to The Extension Office by animal acquisition dates.
- Herdsmanship (Barn Duty) – Small and large animals must have someone in attendance when the Fair is open daily to the public, except during Showmanship or any other event in which all club members are required to participate. Each club and/or barn will arrange their own duty schedule. The youth on barn duty must be a club member. Leaders, friends and parents cannot perform duties of Herdsmanship. Clubs can combine with another club of the same type for Herdsmanship. Please inform Extension Staff of your plans by August 1 of the current year.
- The 4-H exhibitor must perform herdsmanship, grooming, handling, and exercise of the project animal. This includes clipping and washing the animal. In cases where 4-H exhibitors are physically incapable of doing their own clipping or washing, only bona fide 4-H exhibitors may provide needed assistance. Violations of this rule creates loss of learning experience to the exhibitor and unfair competition to other members, particularly in the Fitting and Showmanship contest, and is cause for disqualification of entry. ONLY EXHIBITORS are allowed in stalls/pens. *When the safety of the child or the animal is a concern, a 4-H leader can help.
- Exhibiting 4-H members are to perform their own herdsman chores. Herdsmanship done by non-exhibitors can result in forfeit of all awards and premiums by the exhibitor involved.
- Once a member’s animal has been vet checked and approved to be shown, it must remain on the Fairgrounds for the duration of the Fair. If an animal is removed from the grounds, it may not be returned. Animals may be removed Sunday after 8:00PM.
- Please refer to the horned animal rules in the 4-H Policy & Procedure Handbook (section 8.7) for cattle, goats and sheep.
- Please note: All judges for animal projects are not hired for more than two years in a row. (Excludes Round Robin contests)
Animal Vet Check Rules:
All animals must pass a veterinary health inspection prior to unloading. Animals showing signs of contagious disease, parasites, lameness, or conditions listed by the Fair Veterinarian will be refused entry or excused. Decisions of the veterinarian are final.
Herdsmanship Rules:
- Herdsmanship is required for all Exhibitors who bring animals to the Fair. Failure to complete assigned Herdsmanship shifts or makeup missed shifts will result in an incomplete show and could result in forfeiture of awards. This is a contest to encourage better care and display of projects as well as teamwork within the county. Herdsmanship will be judged one or more times daily during exhibit hours. Each Exhibitor will serve one or more Herdsmanship shifts per day. The number & length of shifts depend on the number of Exhibitors.
- A Blue, Red, or White ribbon and the appropriate premiums will be awarded according to the Danish judging system on the last day of the Fair.
- All those exhibiting animals must participate in that project’s Herdsmanship requirements.
- Each Exhibitor will be required to participate in Herdsmanship for a minimum of 1 hour. (Additional number of hours will be determined by the number of Exhibitors.) Failure to participate will result in the loss of Premiums.
- Herdsmanship schedule will be available at the discretion of the Superintendent. It is suggested that those who participate in the barn set-up will have the first opportunity to sign-up for Herdsmanship times as soon as set-up has been completed. Those who do not attend will be able to sign up for Herdsmanship Wednesday during Vet Check.
- A minimum of 2 Exhibitors will be required to be on duty during Herdsmanship times. These times are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday – Sunday. The only exception is if your barn is closed to the public for showing purposes. If the barn is closed for showing it needs to be clearly marked.
- Club or Project leader will ensure that all members participate in Herdsmanship and that an adult (or teen leader) is in the barn during their member’s Herdsmanship times.
- At the beginning of each shift, the Exhibitor will check-in with the Superintendent/assistant. If you are unable to make your shift, you are responsible for finding a replacement AND making up the time.
- Proper attire (pants and long sleeve shirt) is to be worn during Herdsmanship. Aprons or Pins must also be worn, identifying you as the “Herdsman on Duty.”
- NO ONE is to remove anyone else’s animal from its enclosure. The exception to this rule is with permission from the Superintendent.
- A Herdsmanship award may be awarded to the outstanding herdsman in each level (Junior, Intermediate & Senior). This will be based on participation, cooperation, enthusiasm, and hard work. This is awarded solely at the discretion of the Department Superintendent and/or volunteer judges with the assistance of the Herdsmanship Superintendent.
- It is acceptable in an animal barn or area to have an information booth for public questions and interaction.
Herdsmanship Scoring:
- Herdsmanship scoring is completed by the Department Superintendent and/or volunteer judges with the assistance of the Herdsmanship Superintendent.
- The basis for Herdsmanship scoring is:
- Exhibitors stall(s) or cage(s): (bedding, supplies, equipment). Cleanliness, neatness, and arrangement will be considered. Water and feed containers are available. Tools are safely stored. The judged area will include any enclosure with an exhibitor’s name as well as the exhibition area as a whole.
- Appearance of the exhibit animal: Animals should be healthy in appearance, clean, groomed, and secured in a safe manner. Animals should be fed and watered as required.
- Exhibitor while on duty: Must wear name tag, apron, or pin stating you are performing Herdsmanship. You should be neat in appearance, show good attitude and conduct, be courteous and cooperative, and show knowledge of the project.
- Display materials: A 4-H regulation stall card identifies each animal and exhibit. Cards, educational posters, ribbons, and any other awards are neatly displayed. Simple, effective decorating of stalls is preferred.
Round Robin Rules & Guidelines
Location: 4-H Arena
- Grand Champion Showmanship Rosette winners in Horse, Beef, Llama, Alpaca, Swine, Sheep, Large Goat, Small Goat, Dairy Cattle, Dog, Cat, Poultry, Rabbit and Cavy are encouraged to be shown in either the Large or Small Round Robin category. Showmanship contests compete within their own age groups for over-all showmanship ability. Each contestant shows each of the animals exhibited by the other contestants. The equipment will be the same for all handlers of animals in competition in the Large or Small Round Robin. In case of a question of safety to officials, spectators or handlers, another animal may be substituted and to be decided by Project Leaders. If a 4-H animal is represented at the Fair, an animal of that kind shall be included in each level of the Round Robin.
- The Large Animal Round Robin will include winners of Horse, Beef, Llama or Alpaca, Swine, Sheep, and Large Breed Goat Showmanship. The Small Animal Round Robin will include winners of Small Breed Goat, Rabbit, Dog, Cat, Poultry, and Cavy Showmanship. A competitor who qualifies in large and small animals may compete in both. A competitor who qualifies in two large or two small animals may choose which animal to enter. The animal not chosen may be represented by the Reserve Champion of this animal project (with her/his own animal). Please refer to the goat departments for additional rules regarding small and large goat sizes.
- The Judge assigns numerical scores based on the criteria on the Round Robin scorecard. Study material can be found at the WSU Extension web site in the Fair & Auctions page under Round Robin Study Guides.
- All 4-H members are urged to show good sportsmanship by assisting contestants from other projects in learning to show the various animals. No premium points are awarded for this department, nor do members need to enter prior to the fair. Superintendents for each contest should report the names of the participants and the results to the Extension staff when the competition is over.
Animal Health and the Use of Illegal Drugs
The use of illegal drugs and/or the improper use of animal health products or foreign substances will not be tolerated in the Washington State 4-H Youth Development Program. Extension personnel, 4-H volunteers, families, youth, and fair/show officials have a legal and moral obligation not to misuse these products. We have the responsibility to tell others not to use these substances, and to report those who do use any illegal substances. The administration of any drug or medication, which could affect an animal’s performance by either creating an unfair advantage or changing the disposition of the animal, is unacceptable. Additionally, there are federal penalties for using illegal substances in animals that are going into the nation’s food supply.
Exhibitorship Rules:
- Exhibitorship is a recommended activity for all still life exhibitors (optional for Cloverbuds)
- Exhibitorship will be for Exhibitors showing in the Marie Boe 4-H Building.
- Exhibitorship shifts will be 60 minutes, and Exhibitors may sign up for up to four (4) shifts during the Fair; more than four shifts are allowed, but only (4) four shifts will earn premiums. Registration must be made in Fair Entry.
- Exhibitor shifts will be from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday – Sunday.
- Exhibitorship is recommended for all Exhibitors who bring exhibits to the Fair.
- At the beginning of each shift, the Exhibitor will check-in with the Superintendent or their Assistant.
- Exhibitors must always dress tastefully. No unhemmed shorts; spaghetti strap, low cut or crop tops or flip flops when on Exhibitorship – be mindful of the 4-H dress code contained in this Fair Book.
- Parents are needed and encouraged to sign up as daily building supervisors, serving 60-minute shifts.
- Exhibitorship duties include:
- Make sure exhibits are exhibited properly.
- Cleanliness of exhibit area and floors.
- Contact with the public.
Artificial Intelligence Rules:
- AI Department Exclusive: All projects utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) must be entered into the designated AI Department (Department 29). No AI assisted entries will be accepted in other fair categories.
- Project Explanation: Exhibitors must provide a detailed explanation of their project, including the AI tools used, prompts or data inputs, and the member’s personal contributions.
- Member’s Creative Effort: The project must demonstrate the member’s own creative effort and understanding of AI, not simply the output of an AI tool.
- Ethical AI Use and Transparency: Responsible and transparent use of AI is required, including proper crediting of AI tools and demonstrating ethical practices.
- Judging Criteria: Projects will be judged based on originality, skill development, member involvement, ethical AI use, and age-appropriate effort.
- Inclusivity: All programs and project categories must be inclusive and accessible to all youth.
- Repercussions: If an entry is believed to be AI assisted and entered in any department outside of Department 29, the entry will be moved to Department 29 and no premiums will be awarded.
- Date: Saturday of Fair Week
- Auction Registration: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
- Auction Starts: 1:00 pm
- Location: 4-H Livestock Arena, San Juan County Fairgrounds
- Co-Chairs: Clinton Gauthier & Sara Hurley
General Rules & Information
Auction purpose: To provide an incentive to exhibit and sell quality market stock beef, sheep, swine, meat goats, poultry, poultry eggs and rabbits which have reached marketable weight and grade. The 4-H youth seller and the bidders and/or buyers are reminded that the prices paid to the seller on their animal may not, in fact, reflect a true market price at the time of the sale. It is the desire of the sponsors that the buyer of the animals featured in this sale will bid sufficiently to cover the individual Exhibitor’s additional expenses incurred. Any animal sold in the auction must be suitable for processing at the time of the sale.
Market Animal Selection Rule (all species): Animals eligible for the Market Auction must be officially declared by the exhibitor at final weigh‑in for their species. Exhibitors with multiple eligible animals must declare which animal is being entered in the Market Class for auction. Once final weigh‑in closes, all declarations are final and may not be changed.
Sifting committee: The Livestock Market Animal Auction Committee (LMAAC) will form two sifting committees with a minimum of five members and be present at final weigh-in the Wednesday prior to fair from 2pm to 4pm for large animal (market beef, swine, lamb and meat goat) and at a predetermined time for small animal (poultry and rabbit). The committee will be made up the following two groups:
Large Animal Sifting Committee
- Veterinarian (hired by SJC Fair)
- Livestock Animal Auction Committee Chair(s)
- Large Animal Superintendent(s)
- WSU Ext. County Director or 4-H Faculty
- 4-H Volunteer from Large Animal Project
Small Animal Sifting Committee
- Veterinarian (hired by SJC Fair)
- Livestock Animal Auction Committee Chair(s)
- Small Animal Superintendent(s)
- WSU Ext. County Director or 4-H Faculty
- 4-H Volunteer from Large Animal Project
The purpose of the Sifting Committee is to review all market animals at the San Juan County Fair insuring that the rules established by San Juan County Fair, 4-H, LMAAC, WSU, WSDA and USDA are followed to the best of the Sifting Committee’s ability. Criteria for evaluation, will include but not limited to, health; medications; age; proper castration of wethers, swine and steers; weight; animal unruliness. The Sifting Committee will approve all animals for sale at auction. Any animal called into question will not be allowed entry into the fair until the Sifting Committee is given the appropriate time and resources to evaluate the animal and records. The committee reserves the right to disqualify an exhibitor from the Fair and 4-H auction for cause. Committee members must be knowledgeable of the rules and committed to following established rules without exception or preferential treatment of exhibitors.
The Sifting Committee will provide a Sifting Checklist for each species for entrance into the Livestock Market Animal Auction for each species including:
- Intent to Sell form – submit at early weigh-in or mail/email to WSU County Extension office, post-marked before July 1st
- Livestock Market Animal Auction Committee Memorandum – submit at early weigh-in or mail/email to WSU County Extension office, post-marked before July 1st
- Producer Affidavit and Quality Assurance Form (C1055E “pork”, C1054E “beef”, C1052E “lamb” C1051E “goat”) – turned in at final weigh-in Wednesday before fair – 2:00 pm to Auction Chairperson
- Official Sifting Committee Weight– collected by sifting committee at final weigh-in, Wednesday before fair 3:00 pm to Auction Chairperson
Each seller must have a completed Sifting Checklist signed by the Livestock Superintendent(s) (Poultry Superintendent and/or Rabbit & Cavy Superintendent for small animal) and Auction Chairperson. The completed and signed Sifting Checklist will act as certification that the animal meets the Market Class Eligibility and will proceed to judging at the fair.
Livestock Market Animal Auction Committee has made every effort to make rules and regulations definite and clear. All exhibitors, parents/guardians and club leaders are responsible for the content included in the current year Fair Premium Book and the content of this document. The committee reserves the right to disqualify an exhibitor from the Fair and auction for cause. Questions about any of the rules or guidelines should first be directed to the LMAAC Chairperson(s). If an exhibitor, parent, or other volunteer has a grievance at the San Juan County Fair, they must follow the 4-H Resolution Procedures as outlined in the Fair Book.
Eligibility for Auction
- Only market stock in official 4-H projects is eligible. Each exhibitor must be enrolled in 4-H and be actively caring for the animal(s) exhibited as a 4-H project. 4-H members must be enrolled as a member of San Juan County 4-H. Each 4-H member must follow the rules and regulations of 4-H, the San Juan County Fair and the San Juan County Livestock Market Animal Auction Committee. LMAAC reserves the right to review all actions and behavior of exhibitors and to disqualify the exhibitor from the auction sale for cause including a violation of General Fair or 4-H rules.
- To be eligible for the auction sale, a certificate of Intent to Sell must be completed to be eligible for the sale. Forms must be completed at the EARLY WEIGH-IN DAY for beef, lamb, swine, andmeat goats. If the exhibitor is granted an exception to attend the mandatory early weigh-in from the LMAAC Chairman, all forms must be mailed, faxed or emailed to the WSU Extension office on or before the appropriate due date for each project. Poultry, eggs and rabbit intent to sell forms are due on the July enrollment date. INTENT TO SELL forms must be mailed, faxed or emailed to the WSU Extension office on or before the appropriate due date for each project. Copies of “Intent to Sell” certificates are available from the San Juan County Extension office, the San County Fair office, and animal project leaders, or SJC 4-H Extension website.
- A Livestock Animal Auction Committee Memorandum of Understandingmust be turned in with the INTENT TO SELL. 4-H exhibitor, parent or guardian and 4-H club leader must sign this form. The intent of the Memorandum is informational and outlines the criteria (Sifting Checklist) used by the sifting committee to approve an animal for sale at auction.
- Exhibitors must turn in the following completed forms specific to the species offered for auction to the LMAAC Chairperson(s) on the Wednesday of fair at final weigh-in:
- Producer Affidavit and Quality Assurance Form (C105_E)
- All health records required to be maintained by 4-H exhibitor for the duration of the project ownership.
- The Fair Veterinarian (hired by San Juan County Fair) will inspect all classes of livestock and poultry (including horses, pet animals, pigeons, ducks, geese and turkeys), before they are unloaded, for infection or contagious diseases and ectoparasites. Exhibitors should be aware that ringworm, warts, pinkeye, strangles, contagious eczema, scabies, lice, mites, ticks, foot rot and fleas fall into this category. Decisions of the Veterinarian are final.
- The Fair Veterinarian will be on the fairgrounds at specified days and times. Check with the department superintendent.
- Showing Horned Animals: Refer to 4-H State Program Policy EM0758E section 8.7.
- All Market steers must be polled or dehorned; healed or re-growth must not extend more than two inches from the hairline. Horned breeding animals must have the horn tips covered as a safety precaution.
- Horned, non-dairy goats or sheep may be exhibited in 4-H showmanship classes where animals are not exchanged between youth in the show ring. For a horned animal to be exhibited it must have its horn tips covered. If the sheep or non-dairy goat has scurs (horn re-growth), these scurs cannot exceed 1” in length without the horn tips being covered. Non-dairy horned goats and sheep may be shown in market and breeding classes, but they must have horn tips covered as a safety precaution. A county may implement a more restrictive policy but not a less restrictive policy regarding the exhibition of horned sheep and goats.
- No dairy animals with horns are permitted except in the Junior Heifer Calf class. The definition of horns includes “scurs,” “nubbing,” or “stubs” that extend more than one inch beyond the skin.
- No horned dairy goat animals are allowed.
- 4-H exhibitors will compete separately in the market classes in their species. The judge will designate one (1) Grand Champion and one (1) Reserve Champion for each species for 4-H respectively followed by the placing of each blue ribbon and red ribbon animal in each class in each species for 4-H respectively. The LMAAC shall determine the sale order of all other animals in each species. All decisions and placing by the judge and the committee are final.
- All 4-H Livestock Market Animal Auction animals must meet the ownership date requirement. Date of ownership is as follows: Market Beef – 120 days before fair. Swine, Lambs and Meat Goats – 60 days before fair. Poultry and Rabbit – 45 days before fair.
- All sheep and goats entered in the San Juan County 4-H Market Livestock Animal Auction at the San Juan County Fair shall be identified as per the USDA-APHIS Scrapie Mandatory Identification Program.
- No cryptorchid male animals for market beef, swine, lamb or goat are allowed at auction.
- 4-H members are to educate themselves on the Quality Assurance program for market beef, swine, lamb, meat goat, pullet, laying hen, duck and rabbit projects. Club leaders will provide materials to their members or can be acquired from the WSU Extension Office.
- Market Class Standards including minimum required weight and maximum weight for auction pricing:
- MARKET BEEF: 950 lbs. minimum with no maximum. Market Beef may be heifers or steers. Desirable age of steers is less than 24 months.
- Alternative Beef Breeds: 700 lbs. minimum and 1000 lbs. maximum. Defined as Dexter or Lowline Angus or other recognized small alternative beef animal. It must be no younger than 18 months and no older than 30 months.
- MARKET LAMBS: 85 lbs. minimum and 160 lbs. maximum. Market lambs may be ewes or wethers born on or after December 1st of the year prior to fair exhibit year. No permanent teeth may be present. To qualify for the sale all lamb must be slick shorn 7 days prior to final weigh in or wool must be less than ¼”.
- MARKET SWINE: 200 lbs. minimum and 300 lbs. maximum. Market hogs may be gilts or barrows born on or after January 1st of the current fair exhibit year.
- MEAT GOATS: 70 lbs. minimum and 120 lbs. maximum. Meat goats may be wethers or does born on or after December 1 of prior fair year. A meat goat will be defined to be at least 50% of the following meat breeds: Boer, Genemaster, Kiko, Kinder, Mytonic, Savanna, Spanish, Tennessee Meat Goat, Texmaster, Rangeland, Kalahari, Black Bengal and Verta. No permanent teeth may be present. Goats will be graded on weight, muscle tone, and overall condition.
- CHICKENS: 3 lbs. minimum with no maximum and must not be over 9 weeks of age. Sold as a Trio of broilers of the same breed.
- RABBITS: 3 lbs. minimum and 5.5 lbs. maximum. Market rabbits must not be over 10 weeks of age. Sold as a trio or fryers of the same meat breed
- PHEASANTS: 1 lb. minimum and 3 lbs. maximum. and must not be over 18 weeks of age. Sold as a trio or broilers of the same meat breed
- TURKEY: 14 lb. minimum and 30 lbs. maximum and must not be over 24 weeks of age. Sold as a single turkey.
- PULLET Production Layers: no minimum weight sold by lot. Must be between 4 and 7 months of age. Sold as trio of same breed large fowl (duck or chicken) known for its high egg production.
- Alternative Market Animal Project: In an effort to encourage alternative animal projects, please submit a written proposal of appropriate eligibility requirements to the LMAAC prior to project commencement for consent/approval (examples could be: Quail, Squab, Heritage Breed Turkey, Ostrich etc.)
Auction Entry Regulations
- Only animals receiving a Grand Blue, Reserve Blue, Blue or Red Danish are eligible for sale at auction. White ribbon animals will not be allowed in the auction and may be sold by private treaty.
- An exhibitor may enter one animal from large animal (Market Beef, Market Swine, Market Lamb, Meat Goat,) and one exhibit from small animal (trio of layer pullets/ducks, broilers, turkey, pheasants, dozen eggs, or meat pen of 3 rabbits). Alternatively, an exhibitor may enter one or two small animal (any combination of 2 small animal department market products listed above). To qualify for two products, the exhibitor would need to satisfy club requirements for each animal.
- Exhibitors may not withdraw their exhibits from the fair or auction after the final weigh- in on the Wednesday before Fair.
- Exhibitors and/or others may not buy animals for return to the seller. An exhibitor cannot show auctioned animals at other fairs and/or sales.
- No animal will be sold without all of the required forms including Intent to Sell and signed Memorandum of Understanding.
- Sellers of market beef at the final weigh-in must complete and hand in a hauling slip and bill of sale. Seller is required to be present at brand inspection by Washington State Brand Inspector.
Auction Tags
Large animals must be tagged, banded, or tattooed prior to the fair. Tags will be available at the early weigh-in and Livestock Market Animal Auction Committee welcoming and information meeting. Large animals should be tagged before final weigh-in or during weigh-in.
Weigh-in
- Mandatory early weigh-in will be held prior to June 15th of the given year. All beef, swine, lamb and meat goats are required to be weighed and tagged.
- Sellers must be present at the early and final weigh-in to bring their animals to the scales. NO PROXIES ALLOWED WITHOUT PRIOR LMAAC CHAIRPERSON APPROVAL IN WRITING. EARLY WEIGH IN IS MANDATORY UNLESS PRIOR APPROVAL BY LMAAC CHAIRPERSON IN WRITING.
- Final weigh-in will be Wednesday prior to the start of the fair. Order of species will rotate from year to year, determined by the LMAAC. Market livestock, poultry and rabbit that do not meet minimum weights for sale at the Market Auction will be automatically entered into a feeder class listed under each department.
- No animal will be weighed at the final weigh-in without a completed Market Health Record.
- At the final weigh-in, sellers of market beef must complete and hand in a hauling slip and bill of sale to the LMAAC Chairperson. Seller is required to be present at brand inspection by Washington State Brand Inspector.
- Market Animal Declaration: Exhibitors must declare which eligible animal is being entered in the Market Class at final weigh‑in. Exhibitors with multiple eligible animals must choose one market entry. All declarations made at final weigh‑in are final and cannot be changed.
- Scales used to weigh the animals will be inspected each year and accepted by the State of Washington.
Auction Regulations
- All market livestock: beef, swine, lamb, meat goat, poultry and rabbit entries must be properly finished at the time of sale. Livestock, poultry and rabbit entries judged unsuitable by the Sifting Committee or exhibitors that do not follow stated LMAAC rules for market will not be sold at the auction.
- The LMAAC together with the judge shall determine the sale order of all auction animals in each type class. Large market animals, small market animals and eggs of 4-H exhibitors will sell together. The order of the sale of all market animals and eggs start with the Reserve Champions of all the species followed by the Grand Champions, then the Blue Ribbons (in order of placing by the judge) and lastly, the Red Ribbons (in the order of placing by the judge).
- All sale lots will include large animal, small animal and eggs. The auction order will be as follows until a project area is exhausted of qualifying exhibits:
- Reserve Champions Market Class- Large animal, small animal then eggs
- Grand Champion Market Class – Large Animal, small animal then eggs
- High Blue Market Class – Large animal, small animal then eggs
- 2nd Blue Market Class – Large animal, small animal then eggs
- 3rd Blue Market Class – Large animal, small animal then eggs
- All Remaining Blue Market Class – Large animal, small animal then eggs
- High Red Market Class – Large animal, small animal then eggs
- 2nd Red Market Class – Large animal, small animal then eggs
- 3rd Red Market Class – Large animal, small animal then eggs
- All Remaining Red Market Class – Large animal, small animal then eggs
- Sellers must be present to bring their animal(s) into the auction ring or it will not be sold. NO PROXIES ALLOWED. An exemption may be made for high school seniors leaving for college during the dates of the auction. A letter must be mailed to LMAAC Chairperson(s) prior to August 1st for approval of the LMAAC.
- All weighed animals will be sold by the pound. Poultry, rabbits and eggs will be by lot.
- All animals that weigh more than the maximum set by the Market Class Standards (see above) will be sold for the maximum weight of the market class and not the actual animal weight. Exception for market beef that has no maximum weight and will be sold by actual weight.
- This is a terminal auction for all animals sold at San Juan County 4-H Livestock Market Animal Auction. If a buyer does not want the animal to be terminated, the buyer must request an exception in writing from the LMAAC Chairperson by 5pm the day of the auction and sale for approval. Exception for pullets (laying hens and ducks). All sales are final.
- USDA requirements for withdrawal of feed additives and medications shall be followed. If the animal is condemned in the slaughter process for violation of these USDA requirements, it is the seller’s responsibility to absorb the loss.
Auction Sale Payments to Seller
- A fee of 1.0% of the gross sale will be deducted from each animal. The fee will include the Washington State Brand Inspector fee and check off fee for all beef, hog and lamb.
- Proceeds of the sale will be distributed to exhibitors or their assignors after payment has been received from the buyer. No payments will be made to the sellers/exhibitor until the treasurer has collected all proceeds of the sale.
- All sales not paid in full at time of sale will be assessed a 10% buyer’s premium unless pre-approved by LMAAC treasurer prior to start of auction. Cash, check and credit cards will be accepted as form of payment.
Seller’s Responsibilities
- Each exhibitor/seller assumes the responsibility for securing at least three (3) potential buyers/bidders for each animal to be sold.
- Exhibitors/sellers of market steers must provide buyers with rope halters, which may or may not be returned to the exhibitor. This halter must be left on the steer in the barn.
- Rabbit, Poultry, Pullet and egg sellers must contact buyer at time of sale or later to arrange delivery of live or processed animals or eggs. The seller must be prepared to slaughter, process and wrap rabbit or poultry, at the request of the buyer.
- ALL EXHIBITORS/SELLERS ARE REQUIRED TO CARE FOR THEIR MARKET ANIMAL UNTIL THE ANIMAL LEAVES THE FAIRGROUNDS OR UNTIL LIVESTOCK RELEASE TIME ON SUNDAY.
- Each Seller is responsible to recognize and appreciate the buyer by writing a letter expressing his/her appreciation to the buyer for participating in the auction and purchase of his/her animal. Club leaders must witness and notify LMAAC Treasurer that the seller has written a thank you to the buyer(s).
- Poultry, rabbits and dozen eggs will deliver poultry or rabbits to buyer alive or arrangements will be made to clean and dress poultry or rabbits. Seller will make arrangements for delivery of a fresh dozen eggs to buyer.
Livestock Market Animal Auction Responsibilities
The LMAAC will be responsible to provide each buyer with written cutting and wrapping choices for processing of purchased animals.
Buyer’s Responsibilities
- Any buyer using a credit/debit card for payment will be assessed a 1.5% card surcharge.
- Anyone wanting to purchase any of the market animals may do so by oral bid or proxy.
- All sales are final.
- This is a terminal auction for all animals sold at San Juan County 4-H Livestock Market Animal Auction. If a buyer does not want the animal to be terminated, the buyer must request an exception in writing from the LMAAC Chairperson by 5pm the day of the auction and sale for approval. Note exception for pullet and egg purchases under seller’s responsibilities.
- All animals sold at auction will go to a designated USDA approved slaughter facility. When a buyer requests the animal be processed for his own use, he/she takes possession of the processed carcass at the packinghouse. The cost of slaughter, processing and wrapping is the buyer’s responsibility. If a buyer does not want the animal to be slaughtered, the buyer must request an exception from the LMAAC Chairperson for approval. Exception for pullets (laying hens and ducks).
- Buyers may indicate at the time of purchase that they wish to “turn back” the purchased animal. The turned back animal will then be resold automatically at the Turn Back Auction at the end of the livestock auction. In this case, the buyer pays the full bid amount for the animal. The turn back buyer pays the Turn Back Auction bid amount for the animal. In the event that the Turn Back Auction bid price is higher that the “Auction” price, the seller will receive the greater of the two bid amounts.
- Proceeds from the Turn Back Auction and any late payment fees will be deposited in the 4‑H LMAAC Fund and used to support the cost of auction, hauling, slaughter, delivery, SJC 4‑H member scholarships, market animal showmanship grooming equipment & supplies, youth recognition & awards, barn tools, auction supplies & equipment, market animal auction educational materials, stalls/panels equipment, advertising & marketing and auction promotion and any other uses approved by the LMAAC.
- All buyers should pre-register and receive a bidding number prior to auction.
Rules, Eligibility and Sale Conditions:
- Date: Saturday of the Fair from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Marie Boe 4-H Building
- Superintendent: Kandi Calandra
- Rules, Eligibility and Sale Conditions:
- Deadline for youth silent auction registration: 6:00 PM on Friday of the Fair week in the Marie Boe 4-H Building.
- 4-H exhibitors may enter a maximum of 3 items. These items may be from Departments 10 through 27 and must have received a blue or red ribbon.
- CloverBuds cannot enter their own individual items in the Still Life Auction but may participate/contribute to the club project fundraiser outlined below.
- Food items (except food preservation items) offered for auction must be baked, such as breads, cakes, cookies, brownies, or fruit pies. You may not sell creamed items (including creamed pies and cheesecakes) or any other food item requiring refrigeration. Disposable containers must be used on all food items auctioned, as the containers will not be returned to you. All food items must be covered. Baked food items have to be made within 3 days of the auction, e.g. between Wednesday and Friday the week of Fair. If the 4-H youth is camping at the Fair or otherwise unable to provide freshly baked goods on the day of the auction, they will make arrangements to deliver a fresh version of the auctioned item to the winning bidder.
- All items to be auctioned need to be in the Marie Boe 4-H Building by 10:00 AM Saturday of the Fair.
- Items to be auctioned must be accompanied by a 3×5 card with the name of the 4-H’er, a description of the item and if a baked good, the quantity to be auctioned: three-dozen oatmeal apple cookies, for example. The card could also contain a brief message: where a photograph was taken &/or why the 4-H’er took that particular photograph or anything that might better the item’s chances of selling at a premium price. These cards will be provided by the superintendent or their assistant.
- 4-H members are not required to be present during the silent auction, but their presence is encouraged to enhance the proceedings. If you choose to be present, appropriate 4-H attire is required. (see 4-H dress code in general rules)
- Participating 4-H’ers must show proof to the club leader that thank-you notes have been written and sent to the buyer before sale checks are sent out. The club leader will notify the Leaders Council treasurer.
- Still Life Clubs may auction off one club project as a club fundraiser. The club project can include multiple items; a cake a month for six months or a baby’s sleeping ensemble, for example. The auctioned item must be related to the club’s department project(s).
- One hundred percent (100%) of the proceeds will go to the participating 4-H’er or club.
- All participants are encouraged to secure their own buyers by inviting friends, relatives and community businessmen to participate at the silent auction.
- Participants are responsible for attractively arranging their items for the Still Life Auction. The 4-H Still Life Auction committee is not responsible for lost or damaged items.
- The 4-H Leaders Council Still Life Committee reserves the right to accept or reject items submitted for auction and interpret the rules above.
SJC 4-H Special Leaders’ Council Meeting – Sunday at 9:00
All 4-H Leaders will meet Sunday of Fair at 9:00 AM in the Marie Boe 4-H Building to determine County-Wide Awards and nominees of the “Harold Kjargaard” and Leaders Council Leaders “Leadership Award” will be voted on. Nominations may be made by written form (found on WSU website) OR nominations can be made from the floor by any leader. Voting will be by written ballot. In the event of a tie, both members will be honored. After the meeting, Leaders will divide into appropriate project areas and determine winners of Special Awards in each department.
High Point Exhibitor Award
The Durhack High Point Award
Sponsored by Neva Durhack. $50 cash award to be awarded after the conclusion of the Fair to the High Point 4-H Exhibitor who has satisfied the completion requirements of the San Juan County 4-H Program.
Stoltz Kau Architects High Point Award
A perpetual trophy to be awarded after the conclusion of the Fair to the High Point 4-H Exhibitor who has satisfied the completion requirements of the San Juan County 4-H Program.
Outstanding Achievement Awards
Harold Kjargaard Memorial Award
The San Juan County 4-H Leaders Council sponsors a perpetual trophy. Awarded to San Juan County’s “Outstanding” 4-H member. Nominations are to be made by 4-H leaders in the county. Winner receives a keeper plaque.
San Juan County Leaders’ Council Leadership Award
A perpetual trophy awarded to an “Outstanding” 4-H member practicing the highest quality of leadership over the entire 4-H year. Youth of any age division of 4-H can qualify. Nominations to be made by 4-H leaders in the county. Winner receives a keeper plaque.
Best of Show Rosettes
This Best of Show rosette will be given to the most outstanding exhibit of a department across all divisions at the discretion of the judge.
Grand and Reserve Champion 4-H Showmanship Rosettes
Sponsored by the San Juan County Fair Board. Rosettes will be awarded for each age level (Junior, Intermediate, and Senior) in all animal department showmanship events.
Special Achievement Award Rosettes
May be awarded at the discretion of the Judge for “Exceptional Effort” resulting in an exhibit of quality and skill of exceptional educational value.
Award of Merit Rosettes
The Award of Merit Rosette will be given to an outstanding exhibitor that merits special consideration. It will represent effort and result beyond the ordinary.
Educational Support Scholarships
- Applications are available May 1 of every year at the 4-H Office or at the WSU 4-H SJ County Extension web site. Must be submitted or postmarked to the Extension office by July 15 of each year.
- Please refer to the application for eligibility and instructions to apply.
Pierre Franklin 4-H Education Award
The San Juan County Leader’s Council awards up to $1000 per year. Sponsored by the Franklin family and the San Juan County Livestock Market Animal Auction Committee.
Keys Family 4-H Education Award
The San Juan County Leader’s Council awards up to $500 per year. Sponsored by the Keys Family Trust.
4-H Still Life Departments
Location: Fairgrounds Stage
Points Allowed: Class A Blue-50 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- Anyone who was evaluated at a club or island public presentation contest should enter CLASS A to earn premium points for their presentation.
- To compete in the County Fair contests (Classes B-D) enter the appropriate CLASS through FairEntry and sign up for a presentation time in the Marie Boe 4-H Building before Saturday of fair week at 5:00 p.m. The contests will take place on Sunday, August 16 at 10:30 a.m.
- Rosette ribbons will be awarded to both team members in a team presentation.
- Live animals are allowed at the county level with permission, not allowed at State.
- Time Limits
- Demonstration/Illustrated Talk—Juniors 3–8 min; Intermediates 5–15 min; Seniors 10–20 min (overall 3–20).
- Public Speech—5–10 min.
- Presentations substantially under/over time may receive deductions consistent with State 4‑H Fair practices
- Any presentation being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29
Presentation Types:
- Demonstration (Scorecard C0430E)
- “Show and tell how.”
- Youth perform steps of a process while explaining them.
- Must result in a finished product or demonstrated skill.
- Illustrated Talk (Scorecard C0430E)
- “Tell how, using visuals.”
- Youth explain a topic using posters, slide decks, props, or other visuals.
- No requirement for a finished product.
- Public Speech (Scorecard C0431E)
- A traditional speech—informative or persuasive.
- No visuals required.
CLASS A: Island Public Presentation Contest
Preliminary contests are held on each island before the County Fair. Premiums are awarded according to each island’s rules. Blue-ribbon recipients in the Junior, Intermediate, and Senior divisions qualify for the County Fair contests (Classes B–D).
Mixed-age teams are judged in the age division of the oldest team member. Each team member receives the full ribbon and premium earned by the team. Teams going to State must be in the same age division.
4‑H members are required to give one public presentation each year and may give additional presentations in any enrolled project.
CLASS B: Demonstration Contest at the Fair
Blue-ribbon Demonstration presenters from the island contests are eligible to compete. Awards include trophies, ribbons, and recognition. Junior, Intermediate, and Senior blue-ribbon winners may be recommended to advance to the Washington State 4‑H Fair.
If time allows, Cloverbuds may give a Demonstration for a participation ribbon (comments only).
CLASS C: Illustrated Talk Contest at the Fair
Blue-ribbon Illustrated Talk presenters from the island contests are eligible to compete. Awards include trophies, ribbons, and recognition. Junior, Intermediate, and Senior blue-ribbon winners may be recommended to advance to the Washington State 4‑H Fair.
If time allows, Cloverbuds may give an Illustrated Talk for a participation ribbon (comments only).
CLASS D: Public Speech Contest at the Fair
Blue-ribbon Public Speech presenters from the island contests are eligible to compete. Awards include trophies, ribbons, and recognition. Junior, Intermediate, and Senior blue-ribbon winners may be recommended to advance to the Washington State 4‑H Fair.
If time allows, Cloverbuds may give a Public Speech for a participation ribbon (comments only).
The following lots apply to classes A-D
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
- Lot 5. Team
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Blue-50 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- Each display has a 4’x4′ table and wall space area for their educational booth in the 4-H building. Members must do all work – Adults may act only as advisors.
- Displays must be free‑standing and constructed safely. No open flames or hazardous materials are permitted.
- Group/Club entries will award each participating member the ribbon/premium earned by the display.
- Exhibits must remain within the provided 4’×4′ table footprint unless otherwise approved by the Superintendent.
- Any display being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29
Class A: 4-H Educational Display
The Educational Booth, like the educational poster, imparts learning at a glance. A Club or youth will choose a topic about their project and put together a booth to teach the public about their topic.
Basis for scoring:
- Attracts attention – 25 points
- Conveys a message simply and quickly – 30 points
- Suitable, timely subject – 20 points
- Effective title: short, catchy – 10 points
- Neat, well-constructed – 15 points
Class B: 4-H Club Informational Display
A Club or youth can enter a visual display that informs the public about their specific Club. This display will teach the public about your members, leaders, activities, community service, achievements and/or learning. This Class focuses on in-depth learning to teach the public about what 4-H is all about and what your Club does throughout the year.
Basis for scoring:
- Meaningful presentation – 25 points
- Encourages study, holds interest – 30 points
- The 4-H Mission is represented – 20 points
- Shows involvement – 10 points
- Neat, well-constructed – 15 points
The following lots apply to classes A-B:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
- Lot 5. Group/Club (all members involved should enter in Fair Entry)
Location: Displays will be housed in the Marie Boe 4-H Building – Presentations will take place on the Stage
Points Allowed: Blue-80 Red-60 White-40
Rules:
- Members must sign up for a specific time slot. Please come to the 4-H building by Thursday noon to select your time to present.
- The aim is to demonstrate growth in life skills accomplished in a project area or activity during the 4-H year. Judges will evaluate how you communicate the progress made and how you use three-dimensional, multi-media to do so. Judges and/or audience may question presenter(s) during the presentation. This display needs to show how 4-H contributes to education for better living. No part of this display can be entered as a separate exhibit under another lot number. A club, an individual, or a group can enter this contest. This display may be exhibited anywhere on the Fairgrounds. Leaders may only advise members.
- Displays must be stable, safe, and free‑standing. Electrical use must be approved by the Superintendent.
- Club entries: each participating member will receive the same ribbon/premium earned by the display.
- Any display being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29
Basis for scoring:
- Makes a statement with a short, catchy title or phrase 10 points
- Attracts attention 20 points
- Encourages study, holds interest 10 points
- Creative, three-dimensional presentation 15 points
- Documents life skill development 20 points
- Eye contact, Poise, Presentation Skills 25 points
Class A: Individual
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class B: Club
- Lot 1. Club/Group
Location: Posters are displayed throughout the Fairgrounds and in the Marie Boe 4-H Building.
Points Allowed: Blue-30 Red-20 White-10
Rules and Instructions:
- Individual 4-H members are encouraged to enter posters relevant to their 4-H project areas. Exhibits may show any topic of an educational or 4-H promotional nature. A member may enter one entry per project area. If entering more than one item in a class, each item must be entered as a separate entry.
- Posters must be a minimum 14×22 and a maximum of 22×28 inches and may not include copyrighted illustrations or cartoons. The tri-fold display board shall not be more than 36 inches tall. The center panel shall be no larger than 24 inches wide and the two side panels shall be no larger than 12 inches wide.
- All work must be done by the member. Adults can only give suggestions and advise.
- Demonstration Posters will NOT be accepted as educational posters.
- For maximum points your poster should be able to be easily read from a distance of 10 feet.
- Exhibitor’s name must be put on back of their entry.
- Lamination Policy for Posters:
- All 2‑D posters will be laminated by 4‑H for display throughout the Fairgrounds.
- Exhibitors who do not want their poster laminated must clearly indicate this on the back of the poster prior to submission.
- 4‑H and the Fair cannot be held liable or responsible for any damage, bubbling, wrinkling, color change, or warping that may occur during lamination or during the process of hanging posters around the Fairgrounds.
- Judges will be instructed not to take lamination‑related damage or alterations into account while judging entries.
- Arrangements should be made to deliver entries to the Marie Boe 4-H Building on the Fairgrounds Sunday before Fair between 2:00 and 5:00 PM. Or delivered to the Extension Office any time prior to Sunday. All exhibits must be submitted properly tagged prior to entering. Entries will not be accepted after 8:30 AM Monday of Fair week.
- Posters may be picked up for displaying in the barns on Wednesday of Fair week from the Marie Boe 4-H Building when available.
- Informational value is enhanced by presenting accurate, timely, concise information by way of a clear brief message that is important and appropriate. Design is enhanced by one main idea, shows creativity and educational value. The entry should present a neat, simple and orderly appearance.
- Any display/poster being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29.
- Entries that do not meet the requirements will receive a participation ribbon with no premium money.
- Tri‑fold displays must be free‑standing, stable, and safe for public walk‑through areas.
- Information must be factually correct and appropriate for a general audience; posters with factually incorrect or misleading content may be marked down.
- Use of stencils, stickers, printed images, commercial lettering, or any non‑hand‑drawn elements automatically places an entry into Class B.
- Please refer to San Juan County Poster Scorecard for classes A & B and scorecard #C0679 for classes C-F.
Class A: Posters – (Hand Crafted), 14” x 22” minimum
Posters must only include artwork and lettering drawn entirely by the exhibitor’s own hand.
Class B: Posters – (Technology Assisted – No AI), 14” x 22” minimum
Posters that include any computer-generated clip art or lettering, photographs, stencil use, or any other art medium that is not the exhibitor’s own handwork.
Class C: Chart or Graph Posters, 14” x 22” minimum
Class D: Mobile
Class E: Tri-fold display (see measurements above)
The following lots apply to classes A-E
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
CLASS F: Food as Science Educational Display
This class highlights food and nutrition topics through an educational poster or display. Exhibits may explore concepts in food science, nutrition, food safety, food systems, cultural foods, or consumer food decision-making. Displays should clearly teach the viewer about a specific concept connected to the exhibitor’s 4‑H Foods project or general food literacy.
Requirements:
- Displays must follow all general poster/display rules listed above.
- Must be presented on a poster board or tri-fold display within the Department 4 size limits.
- Content must be accurate, research‑based, and include cited sources (WSU Extension, USDA, or other credible references).
- No food samples may be offered. Photographs or illustrations are encouraged.
- Work must be entirely the exhibitor’s own. Adults may advise but not create content.
- Entries will be evaluated using the WSU Educational Display Scorecard (C0679), consistent with Washington State 4‑H Fair Still Life judging expectations.
- Topics may include (but are not limited to):
- Daily food needs & nutrition
- Nutrition and fitness
- Food preparation science (yeast, emulsions, browning, leavening, etc.)
- Food preservation science
- Food safety (cross-contamination, time/temperature, sanitation)
- Consumer food issues and label literacy
- Foods of the world / cultural food pathways
- Food system sustainability
- Careers in food and nutrition
The following lots apply to class F:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: Marie Boe 4‑H Building
Points Allowed: Blue – 40 | Red – 30 | White – 20
Rules:
- Technical Posters must present advanced, data-driven, analytical, or research-level content related to the exhibitor’s 4‑H project area.
- Sources must be cited on the poster in any consistent format (APA, MLA, or simple URL list).
- Exhibitor’s name and the 4‑H project area that should judge the poster must be written on the back of the poster.
- Posters must be informational, not promotional, and must demonstrate depth of knowledge or technical process.
- Posters must follow the size and construction guidelines of Department 4, including delivery deadlines and 2D-only requirements.
- Posters will be sorted by project area and judged by the content‑appropriate project judge, not the Educational Poster judges.
- Entries will be judged using the Educational Display Score Card (C0679E).
- Cloverbuds may not enter Technical Posters (Department 4 remains available).
- Technical Posters are considered technology‑assisted posters and may include printed graphs, digital illustrations, and computer‑generated elements.
- AI-assisted posters must be entered in Department 29.
CLASS A – Technical Poster
Advanced, research-style posters presenting complex, scientific, analytical, engineering, or in‑depth project information intended for an audience seeking higher-level understanding. Posters may include charts, graphs, data tables, schematics, diagrams, or detailed instructional content.
The following lots apply to class A:
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: Marie Boe 4-H Building
Exhibitorship hours: 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Points Allowed: Blue-25 Red-17.5 White-12.5 (per 1 hour shift up to 4)
Rules:
- The Exhibitorship contest is for those who have entered projects in any still life category.
- Each exhibitor is expected to perform one hour of Exhibitorship during the fair. You may earn points for up to 4 shifts.
- Exhibitorship serves the same function as Herdsmanship but is only applicable to the Marie Boe 4-H Building.
- Exhibitors will be available to assist with the cleanliness and organization of the Marie Boe 4-H Building as well as to the public to answer questions.
- More information and details can be found in the Still Life Rules section of this Fair Book
Class A: Exhibitorship
Lot 1. Cloverbud
Lot 2. Junior
Lot 3. Intermediate
Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Fairgrounds Stage
Points Allowed: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Rules:
- Performers are to supply their own equipment, costumes, music and instruments.
- One rosette ribbon will be awarded to group entries.
- Group performances requires that each member of the group enter via Fair Entry.
- No primary members allowed in group entries that also have other Junior, Intermediate or Senior members. Groups will be judged in the age division of the oldest performing member.
- See Scorecard C0431, available from WSU Publications, for scoring details
- Time Limits: Performances should not exceed 5 minutes for dance/vocal/instrumental routines, 4 minutes for readings, and 10 minutes for skits.
- Performances must reflect the values of 4‑H. Acts suggesting or depicting smoking, drinking, drug use, or inappropriate themes will be scored down or disqualified.
- Props must be safe and manageable. Performers must complete setup and takedown within their allotted time.
- Any performance being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29
DANCE
Solo and group performances can be classical, folk, jazz, pop, etc., and include original and non-original choreography.
Class A: Solo Dance
Lot 1. Cloverbud
Lot 2. Junior
Lot 3. Intermediate
Lot 4. Senior
Class AA: Dance-Small Ensemble (2-8 members)
Lot 1. Group
Class AAA: Dance-Large Ensemble (9+ Members)
Lot 1. Group
Class B: Individual Dance with Props (ex. hula hoop, jump rope, stick dance etc.)
Lot 1 Cloverbud
Lot 2. Junior
Lot 3. Intermediate
Lot 4. Senior
Class BB: Group Dance with Props (ex. hula hoop, jump rope, stick dance, etc.)
Lot 1. Group dance with props
MUSICAL
Solo and group performances may be classical, folk, jazz/blues, rock/pop, and other types, with original and non-original elements.
Class C: Solo Instrumental
Lot 1. Cloverbud
Lot 2. Junior
Lot 3. Intermediate
Lot 4. Senior
Class CC: Ensemble Instrumental
Lot 1. Group
Class D: Solo Singing
Lot 1. Cloverbud
Lot 2. Junior
Lot 3. Intermediate
Lot 4. Senior
Class DD: Group Singing
Lot 1. Group
DRAMATIZATION
Class G: Soliloquy/Oration/Solo Reading Performance
Lot 1. Cloverbud
Lot 2. Junior
Lot 3. Intermediate
Lot 4. Senior
Class H: Play or Skit
Class I: Puppet Performance
Class J: Poetry Performance
The following lots apply to classes H-J
Lot 1. Cloverbud
Lot 2. Junior
Lot 3. Intermediate
Lot 4. Senior
Lot 5. Group
ORIGINAL PERFORMANCE
A performance in any of the categories listed above, which is the creation of enrolled 4-Hers. Can be a composition, conducting, or choreography, which can be presented, at least in part, in a visual or audio recording.
Class K: Original performance by an individual
Lot 1. Cloverbud
Lot 2. Junior
Lot 3. Intermediate
Lot 4. Senior
Class KK. Original group performance
Lot 1. Group
Location: Target Classes C through I will be judged at an off-site location (or several locations) prior to Fair.
Time and Date: TBA
Points Allowed: Blue-30 Red-20 White-10
Rules:
- Poster: To be eligible for premium points in Target Classes B through H, an exhibitor must exhibit an archery poster in Department 5 (all ages) or project record book (ages 11 – 19). Posters must follow the guidelines in Departments 5.
- Posters to be entered at Fair no later than 9am Monday of Fair week. (see Dept. 5)
- Target Shoots: Rules, target size, distances, and number of scoring and practice arrows will be determined by the County archery leaders before any competition takes place. The competitions may take place at a single location or on each island, depending on the needs of the various archery clubs. All equipment must be inspected by Range Officers prior to competition. Finger protection and arm guards are mandatory.
- State Shoot Eligibility: Grand/Reserve or eligible age class. Alternatives determined by points and class standing. Age limits for State Shoot may be different than for archery club eligibility. State Shoot rules may be different than local rules.
- Open to members enrolled in a San Juan County 4-H Archery Project.
- To receive Premium points for participating in this contest, member must bring a safety poster to Fair and a target with member’s name, age division, target size, and bow style.
- Scoring for showmanship is based upon member’s shooting score (previously determined by club participation or contest); knowledge of archery history, equipment, terminology and safety rules, and general 4-H; and quality of target presentation to the Judge.
- The Archery Project Leader will provide the Archery Superintendent with a list of club members along with their shooting scores and shooting score percentages on the Wednesday of Fair.
- All equipment must comply with WSU 4‑H Shooting Sports Archery discipline standards and be approved by a certified Range Officer.
- All shooting events will take place under certified 4‑H Shooting Sports instructors with proper range safety officer oversight.
Class A: Project Record Book
Class B: TARGET, Long or Recurve Bow
Class C: TARGET, Compound Bow, no sights
Class D: TARGET, Sighted Bow
Class E: TARGET, Open Class
Class F: 3-D TARGET, no sights
Class G: 3-D TARGET, sighted
Class H: 3-D TARGET, Open Class
Class I: Archery Showmanship
The following lots apply to classes A-I:
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Class A-B: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Class C, I, L: Blue-30 Red-25 White-15
Class D, J: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Class E-F: Blue-50 Red-40 White-30
Class G, H, K: Blue-60 Red-50 White-40
Rules:
- All items must have either a “care” label sewn into a seam or a 3×5 card with care instructions included. Pattern envelope and instructions are required for tailoring entries and recommended for all other classes. Children’s sleepwear must be made from flame retardant fabric. Accessories may be sewn or woven. Any number of different garments may be entered under each skill level.
- All items must be clean, pressed, odor‑free, and properly finished for display.
- Refer to State Fair rules and guidelines to participate in Classes A & B. The member must contact The Extension Office for all details, judge’s information sheets and to enter these two classes.
Class A: 4-H Fashion Revue
Class B: Creative Consumer of Fashion
Class C: Skill level 1 garments:
Simple top, pants, shorts, skirts, knit tops, swimsuit cover-up, gym shorts, aprons, etc. (Pocket is OK, no waistband, zipper, buttonholes)
Class C1: Sample book level 1:
5 sample items that show progress in the level one skill areas: pocket, straight seam, curved seam, corner, hand-stitching, gathering.
Class D: Skill level 2 garments
Pants, shorts, skirts, vests, dresses (has one or more of the following: zipper, waistband, buttonholes, collars)
Class D1: Sample book level 2:
5 sample items that show progress in a level 2 skill area: zipper, waistband, buttonholes, collars, sleeves, ruffle.
Class E: Challenging fabrics
Garment made using plaids, satin.
Class F: Outdoor wear
Any item from the following list, made from outdoor fabric: jacket or coat, fitted skiwear, overalls, and sleeping bags.
Class G: Western wear
Class H: Tailoring
Must be wool or wool blend: coat, suit, jacket, or blazer, skirt, pants, dress, vest, and topcoat.
Class I: Sewn Clothing Accessory
Hats, scarves, purses, shoulder bags, slippers.
Class J: Felted garment or accessory
Class K: Other garment or accessory
Class L: Other sewn item
The following lots apply to classes A-L
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Class A-B: Blue-30 Red-20 White-15
Class C-J: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- If a commercial pattern/kit is used, please include the package picture to compare with the finished item.
- All entries must be clean, pressed, free of odors, and neatly finished on both front and back.
- Quilting must be done by the exhibitor unless otherwise noted. Tied quilts are acceptable only in Class C.
- Quilt entries should include the 4-H Quilt Entrant Questionnaire (C1065E) attached to their entry.
Class A: Room accessories: dresser scarf, table runner, pillow sham, other
Class B: Kitchen item: dish towels (hemmed), oven mitt, potholder, other
Class C: Small hand pieced or appliqué quilt project, tied or quilted
Class D: Small whole cloth quilt project, hand or machine quilted
Class E: Embellished Accent or “throw” pillows
Class F: Matching dining sets-any combination of table runner, place mats, napkins, etc. (Set of 4)
Class G: Curtains or window treatment
Class H: Home Accessories
Class I: Other item not listed
The following lots apply to classes A-I
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class J: Small whole quilt project, sewn by a club or group with all ages included
For class J only: use:
- Lot 1. Group/Club
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Class A-P, HH Blue-30 Red-25 White-15
Class Q-Z, AA-EE Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Class FF-GG Blue-50 Red-40 White-30
Rules:
- This department includes knitting and crocheting.
- Items that will be worn or used and washed will need to have a care label securely fastened or a 3×5 card with care instructions. Care label should include fiber content and washing/drying instructions.
- Entries must be clean, neatly finished, and appropriately blocked (if applicable).
- Entries must be hand‑knitted or hand‑crocheted unless otherwise specified.
Class A: Knitted Potholder
Class B: Crocheted Potholder
Class C: Knitted Hat
Class D: Crocheted Hat
Class E: Knitted Scarf
Class F: Crocheted Scarf
Class G: Knitted Slippers
Class H: Crocheted Slippers
Class I: Knitted Dishrag
Class J: Crocheted Dishrag
Class K: Knitted Set of 3 coat hangers
Class L: Crocheted Set of 3 coat hangers
Class M: Knitted Baby booties
Class N: Crocheted Baby booties
Class O: Knitted Baby hat
Class P: Crocheted Baby hat
Class Q: Knitted Raglan cardigan sweater
Class R: Crocheted Raglan cardigan sweater
Class S: Knitted Vest
Class T: Crocheted Vest
Class U: Knitted Sweater
Class V: Crocheted Sweater
Class W: Knitted Mittens
Class X: Crocheted Mittens
Class Y: Knitted Gloves
Class Z: Crocheted Gloves
Class AA: Knitted Baby layette
Class BB: Crocheted Baby layette
Class CC: Knitted Socks with turned heel
Class DD: Crocheted Socks with turned heel
Class EE: Knitted Sampler
Class FF: Article of advanced knitting (large afghans, etc.)
Class GG: Article of advanced crocheting (large afghans, etc.)
Class HH: Other knitted or crocheted item
The following lots apply to classes A-HH.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Class A-B, F: Blue-20 Red-15 White-10
Class C-E, H: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Class G: Blue-30 Red 20 White 15
Spinning Rules:
- Batts will be judged on uniformity of carding. Batts and skeins may be 100% wool, alpaca, llama, silk or a blending of fibers and/or color. Skeins should be tagged with information about the construction (E.g. made from roving, or hand-carded, or drum carded, or not carded).
- Skein exhibits shall be 10 yards long, in a 1-1/2 yard skein tied in 4 places. Skeins will be judged on uniformity of spin
Weaving Rules:
- All weaving must be displayed with a weaving plan to include the following information:
- Title and dimensions of weaving
- Threads per inch
- Warp width and length calculations
- If loom operated pattern is used:
- Pattern name
- Threading/tie-up/treadling
- Scale colored drawing of weaving
- Comments (E.g. why you chose to weave this piece, problems you experienced in the weaving process, how you feel about the finished weaving and weaving in general, etc.)
- Sources: Teacher, books, videos, etc.
Class A: Hand carded batt
Class B: Drum carded batt
Class C: Singly ply yarn skeins
Class D: Two ply yarn skeins
Class E: Loopy-novelty texture skeins
Class F: Weaving skill level 1
This level is for beginning weavers only. Two harness or hand manipulated plain weave not over 12 threads per inch (Note: this is very beginning weaving, and experienced weavers should not be able to compete with beginning weavers at this level.)
Class G: Weaving skill level 2
Plain weaves with thought and planning given to color and/or texture.
4-harness or hand manipulated simple pattern weave
Class H: Weaving skill level 3
4 or more harness or hand manipulated weave in a specific, complex technique (e.g. Tapestry, rya, bound weave, rep, overshot, etc.)
The following lots apply to classes A-H.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Classes A-E and H: Blue-25 Red-20 White-15
Classes F, G, I, and J: Blue-30 Red-25 White-20
Classes K-S (Food Activities): Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Baking
Rules:
- A complete recipe must accompany each food entry. Recipe cards may be submitted in any format (index card, printed sheet, store‑bought recipe card, or printed recipe mounted on paper). The appearance of the card is not judged, but:
- All recipe cards must:
- Be securely attached to the exhibit in a place easily visible to judges.
- Be legible and written or printed clearly.
- Have the entry number on it in the case that the recipe gets separated from its entry.
- Include the following required information:
- Recipe title
- Full ingredient list with measurements
- Complete preparation instructions
- Oven temperature
- Baking/cooking time
- Pan size (if applicable)
- Entries lacking recipe cards will receive one ribbon placement lower than scored
- No cream filled or chiffon pies, cream based, or uncooked products.
- Each exhibitor may enter an unlimited number of exhibits per class, but no two entries may be alike or from the same recipe.
- No alcoholic products are to be used in any entry.
- All entries are expected to be made from scratch; no mixes or purchased dough is permitted.
Class A: Cookies – enter 4 cookies
Class B: Quick breads – enter 1/4 loaf or 4 muffins
Class C: Candy – enter 4 pieces
Class D: Nutritious snack – enter 4 items or 1 cup.
Class E: Cakes, cupcakes – enter 1/4 cake or 4 cupcakes
Class F: Yeast breads – enter 1/4 loaf, 4 rolls, biscuits, etc.
Class G: Pies, pastries – Enter 1/4 pie or 4 items
Class H: Other item not listed
Class I: Heritage Recipe & Family Story Exhibit
- Rules for Class I
- Exhibit must include a baked good (¼ item or 4 pieces).
- Entry must include a printed or typed recipe.
- Entry must include a written history (½–1 page) describing the recipe’s significance to the exhibitor’s family or San Juan Island heritage.
- Judged on:
- Quality of baked item (50%)
- Clarity of recipe (20%)
- Story/history component (30%)
- No items requiring refrigeration.
- This class does not qualify for State Fair.
Class J: Special Ingredient Baked Item – 2026 Item is Honey
- Rules for CLASS J:
- Must be a baked item.
- Must visibly feature or strongly flavor with the selected ingredient.
- Entry requires a recipe card plus a short paragraph describing how the special ingredient was used.
- Judged on creativity, flavor, use of ingredient, and appearance.
- This class does not qualify for State Fair.
The following lots apply to classes A-J.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
FOOD ACTIVITIES
The purpose of this activity is to give 4‑H youth enrolled in any of the Foods Projects a judged experience in the full process of food preparation and completion—from planning and safe handling to the finished presentation of their dish.
Rules:
- Recipes are required.
- Rules will comply with State requirements.
- Check with the 4-H Office for details, forms and score sheets.
- These contests will happen on the stage at the San Juan County Fair
- Simple food preparation appliances can be provided but it is best to have ingredients pre-prepared and pre-cooked if necessary.
- A blue ribbon in an activity could qualify the exhibitor for the same State contest.
CLASS K: Lunch on the Go
CLASS L: Quick to Fix Meals
CLASS M: Foods of the Pacific Northwest/Native Foods
CLASS N: Foods for All Occasions
CLASS O: Favorite Foods
CLASS P: Bread Baking
CLASS Q: Food Preservation (no Cloverbuds may enter hot water bath or pressure canning methods)
CLASS R: Other
CLASS S: Special Ingredient Food Activity – 2026 Item is LAMB
Since the fair them is Red, White & Ewe, we’d love to feature lamb in our food activities this year
The following lots apply to classes J-R unless otherwise noted above.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Class A-D & G-I: Blue-30 Red-20 White-15
Class E: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Class F: Blue-45 Red-35 White-25
Rules:
- Cloverbud members are limited to Classes D & H.
- Juniors are limited to Classes A-D, G, H & I.
- Exhibits must include a 3×5 card with the recipe and complete canning instruction.
- Processing methods and times must follow current WSU and USDA recommendations. All water bath canning must follow either USDA or most recent Ball Blue Book recommendations. All pressure canning must follow USDA. USDA approves recipes and processing times listed by the National Center for Home Food Preservation. Youth may find this information at the NCHFP website.
- Each exhibitor may enter an unlimited number of exhibits, but no two alike or from the same recipe.
- Frozen products will not be accepted.
- Canned goods (including jelly) must be sealed in standard canning jars and sealed with ring lids. The ring must be removed. Canned or dried goods not in standard jars, or in soiled containers will be disqualified.
- All canned and dried exhibits must be labeled. Standard 4-H labels (C0803 and C0804) are available at The Extension Office, or on entry day. The label should be placed on the product, so viewing is not obstructed. Please leave your name off of the label until judging is complete. Indicate on labels for canned tomatoes if citric acid or lemon juice has been added, e.g. “1/4 tsp. Citric acid added.”
- No entries in colored jars will be accepted.
Class A: Canned fruits
Class B: Jams, jellies, preserves, conserves and marmalades
Class C: Pickles and relishes
Class D: Dried foods
Class E: Canned vegetables
Class F: Canned meats, fish, poultry
Class G: Syrups
Class H: Mixes in a jar
Class I: Other Food Preservation Item
The following lots apply to classes A-I (unless otherwise noted above in rules.)
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Blue-40 Red-35 White-25
Rules:
- Open to those members enrolled in a food project.
- Exhibitors must follow safe food handling guidelines.
- Recipe cards are required when applicable.
- All materials must be the exhibitor’s own work.
- Foods presented must be shelf‑stable and labeled; no perishable prepared foods may be submitted. Shelf stable = safe at room temperature for the duration of the fair; no dairy, meat, fresh fruit fillings, eggs requiring refrigeration, or other perishable components.
CLASS A: Modified Recipe
Start with an existing recipe and modify it to meet a special diet or make it healthier.
Entry must include:
- A copy of the original recipe
- A copy of the modified recipe
- A written list of the changes and why they make the recipe healthier (e.g., lower fat, less sugar, whole‑grain substitution, allergen‑friendly, etc.)
CLASS B: Menu Plan
Create a three‑day menu on an 8½” × 11” sheet.
Entry must include:
- Three complete daily menus:
- Menus must include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for each day, and should reflect balanced nutrition.
- A personal recipe book with at least 10 recipes used in those menus
- Each recipe must include ingredients and preparation instructions
CLASS C: Food Gift Basket
Prepare a themed gift basket containing at least three different home‑prepared items, such as baked goods, dried foods, canned items, or food mixes.
Entry must include:
- A decorative, neatly arranged basket
- A 3″ × 5″ card describing:
- The occasion or purpose of the basket
- The items included
(Note: Home‑preserved items must follow safe preservation rules.)
CLASS D: Preserved Food Quick Meal
Design a quick meal built primarily from home‑preserved foods.
Cloverbuds may not enter this class
Entry must include:
- A menu for one full meal
- 3–5 jars of home‑canned or dried foods to be used in the meal
- Each jar must be labeled with product name, date prepared, processing method, processing time, altitude, and tested recipe source.
- A 3″ × 5″ card that provides:
- Nutritional information
- Appropriate food preparation methods for the preserved items
The following lots apply to classes A-D unless noted above.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Class A: Blue-50 Red-40 White-30
Class B: Blue – 80 Red-70 White 60
General Rules:
- Open to members enrolled in any Foods Project.
- Alcoholic products or beverages are not allowed.
- Members will decorate a table area accommodating 2 place settings with a set theme and menu. Centerpieces and table favors are encouraged.
- Members must provide own table linens, dishes, and silverware. Do not bring expensive items, or items with sentimental value. Not responsible for breakage or theft. Marking items with your name is recommended.
- The exhibitor must do set-up of displays, with no adult involvement in the actual set up.
- Members will be judged on table setting criteria, neatness, food selection and creativity.
- One Entry per Exhibitor per Class
CLASS A: Static Table Display
A traditional decorated table arranged by the exhibitor (no interview). For full guidelines see the SJC Extension Website.
- Entry must include:
- A theme
- A written menu card for a complete meal matching the theme
- Two complete place settings arranged accurately
- A centerpiece that is safe, stable, and appropriate
- Table linens and décor supplied by exhibitor
- Guidelines:
- All items must fit within the assigned table space (roughly 1/3rd of an 8 foot table).
- No real food or open flames.
- Judging is based on:
- Theme & creativity
- Menu appropriateness
- Place‑setting accuracy
- Neatness & visual appeal
- Centerpiece safety
- Not eligible for State Fair.
- Refer to Legacy Scorecard (C1076)
CLASS B: Table Setting Activity
- Refer to scorecard C1076E.
- Conducted live, following WSU’s 4‑H Table Setting Activity guidelines (C1075E)
- Exhibitor sets the table within a time limit
- Gives menu explanation, theme justification, and answer judge questions
- Activity mirrors State 4‑H Fair format and qualifying entries are eligible for State Fair
- Activity must be done at the scheduled time during the week of San Juan County Fair
The following lots apply to classes A & B.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Blue-40 Red-30 White-15
Rules:
- No more than 2 entries per class.
- If a commercial pattern/kit is used, please include the package picture to compare with the finished item.
- All fabric items must have a 3×5 card or care label included on the item with care instructions if it is an item that will be worn or washed.
- Items intended to be hung for display must have a hanging device securely attached.
- Decorated cakes must be whole. Cake forms may be used. Cupcakes or small items require 4 to enter.
- Novelty food items may be purchased kits for houses, etc., such as gingerbread house.
- All entries should demonstrate good workmanship: neat, clean, securely assembled, and finished appropriately for display.
- Any craft being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29
Class A: Holiday ornaments and decorations
Class B: Felting- toys, animals and any other non-garment felted item
Class C: Dolls – porcelain, fabric, wood, etc.
Class D: Sculpted Art- clay, fimo/sculpey figurines, dinnerware, tiles, ceramics and plaster, etc.
Class E: Jewelry and hair accessories- non-beaded
Class F: Needle Art – includes plastic canvas, counted cross-stitch, needlepoint, stamped cross-stitch, crewel, and embroidery
Class G: Leather craft
Class H: Paper craft – origami, paper twist, stamping, embossing, greeting cards, scrapbooking
Class I: Fabric – dyed, printed, etc.
Class J: Metal craft – tooled, etched, pounded, colored
Class K: Glasswork – etched, stained glass, draped glass
Class L: Decoupage
Class M: Latch hook – rugs, pillows, etc.
Class N: Embellished items (applied design) – decorated flowerpots, purchased bags, shirts, shoes, etc.
Class O: Beadwork- jewelry and other beaded items
Class P: Dried Arrangements
Class Q: Macramé
Class R: Models- automobile, airplane etc.
Class S: Weaving -basket, paper, fabric, etc.
Class T: Caning
Class U: Decorated Food Art – Cake must be whole. Enter 4 cupcakes or other small, decorated items
Class V: Other not listed (one entry only)
The following lots apply to classes A-V
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Blue-40 Red-30 White-15
Rules:
- Regular or Duplo LEGOs may be used.
- Models are judged on stability, creativity, design, appearance, and appropriate level of difficulty.
- LEGO models from scratch may include design plans as part of their display
- Individual pieces from kits can be used in all models/creations
- Models must be secure and sturdy enough to be moved by staff for display and judges for evaluation.
- Entry Limits: Each exhibitor may enter up to two (2) individual LEGO exhibits total (Classes A–I), plus one (1) entry in the LEGO Group Build (Class J).
LEGO Model Built from a Kit
Class A – Large Kit (1000+ pieces)
Class B – Medium Kit (400-1000 pieces)
Class C – Small Kit (101-399 pieces)
Class D – Micro Kit (less than 100 pieces)
LEGO Model Built from Scratch
Scratch-built models should be entered in the class that best fits their overall size and complexity. Exact piece count is not required for scratch-built entries. Judges may reassign entries to the appropriate class if needed.
Class E – Large Model
Class F – Medium Model
Class G – Small Model
Class H – Micro Model
Class I: LEGO Community Build – Where’s 4-H?
Build a scene with at least ten (10) different 4-H activities going on. Create a “Search and Find” list of activities in the scene, to be displayed as a guide for fairgoers to find them.
The following lots apply to classes A-I
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class J: LEGO Group Build
Any item or scene built of Legos by a group of 2 or more members. 3 x 5 card telling what the item is, why you decided to build this item, and what was learned.
For class J only; use:
- Lot 1. Group/Team Build
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Blue-40 Red-30 White-15
Rules:
- No more than 2 entries per class.
- Items intended to be displayed by hanging must have a hanging device securely attached.
- Entries should be clean, neatly presented, and suitably mounted or framed for display.
- Digital artwork printed by the exhibitor may be entered in Mixed Media or Other Fine Art.
- Any fine art entry being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29
Class A: Line Drawing- rendering using a pencil, charcoal, crayons, markers and pen
Class B: Painting- oil, watercolor, acrylic, other brush art
Class C: Art produced using chalk or oil pastels
Class D: Cartooning
Class E: Calligraphy (matted and framed as art)
Class F: Art Prints- linoleum blocks, woodcuts, silkscreen, monoprint
Class G: Mixed media
Class H: Other Fine Art
The following lots apply to classes A-H.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Class A-Z, AA-PP, QA-QE: Blue-30 Red-20 White-10
Class ZZ: Blue-50 Red-40 White-30
General Rules:
- Photos must be taken during the current 4‑H year.
- Minimum size for SJC Fair is 4×6 inches.
- Photos selected for State Fair must be sized 5×7, 8×10, 8×12, or 5×14.
- Digital photos may be used in any class.
- No digital manipulation unless allowed in Digital Imaging Classes X and Y.
- Any AI‑assisted photo must be entered in Department 29.
- For Classes I and II, write the chosen composition technique (“Lines & Shapes,” “Backlighting,” or “Depth of Field”) on the back of the mat.
Submission Requirements:
- Deliver entries to the Marie Boe 4‑H Building Sunday before Fair, 2:00–5:00 PM, or to the Extension Office any time prior to Sunday.
- No entries accepted after 8:00 AM Monday of Fair Week.
- All entries must be properly tagged before submitting.
- Items are displayed by hanging; entries must have a secure hanging device (mounting tabs or folded clear tape work well).
Mounting Requirements
- Photos must be firmly attached to a mat or mounting board using rubber cement, spray adhesive, or adhesive mount.
- Poster‑board mats are not accepted at State Fair.
- Margins may not exceed 2½ inches.
- Un‑mounted or glass‑framed entries receive a participation ribbon only.
- Multiple‑photo entries must be mounted on one board or matted with a total border no wider than 2½”.
- For Digital Imaging Classes X & Y, follow the mounting instructions for “before and after” photos.
Entry Limits
- Exhibitors may enter up to eight photos total in Classes A–LL (“best shots”).
- These may be all in one class or spread across multiple classes.
- All other classes allow one photo per class, unless otherwise noted.
- Each photo must be entered separately in FairEntry.
Required Information (write on the back of your photo mat)
- Camera brand and model
- Digital or 35mm film
- Stop and exposure
- Commercial or self‑printed
- Year in project
- If any of the five required items above are missing → minus 10 points
- If your name appears anywhere on the front or back → minus 10 points
- Tip: Write these before mounting so you don’t forget.
Judging
- Judged using scorecards C0064E (SJC Version) and C1041 (Digital Photography).
BLACK AND WHITE
Class A: People Picture
Class B: Creature Picture
Class C: Landscape
Class D: Marine scape
Class E: Building Picture
Class F: Action Picture
Class G: Close-Up Picture
Class H: Flash Enhanced Picture
Class I: Composition
Show one of the following: Depth of Field, Backlighting, Lines and Shapes (indicate on C0890)
Class J: Sunrises/Sunsets
Class K: Plants/Flowers
Class L: Still Life in black and White
Class M: Two Photographic Note Cards. Folded note cards with photo. Folded size of card minimum 4 inches by 6 inches, maximum folded size 5 inches by 7 inches.
Class N: One Photo Bookmark. May or may not be laminated 2 x 6 inches.
Class O: One Photo Ornament (does not have to be holiday themed). May be flat or 3 dimensional. Must have a hanger. Minimum 2 x 2 inches, maximum 5 x 5 inches.
Class P: One Embellished Photo. A photo embellished with jewels, glitter, etc. or natural decorative items (small shells, pressed flowers, etc.)
COLOR
Class AA: People Picture
Class BB: Creature Picture
Class CC: Landscape
Class DD: Marine scape
Class EE: Building Picture
Class FF: Action Picture
Class GG: Close-Up Picture
Class HH: Flash Enhanced Picture
Class II: Composition
Show one of the following: Depth of Field, Backlighting, Lines and Shapes (indicate on C0890)
Class JJ: Sunrises/Sunsets
Class KK: Plants/Flowers
Class LL: Still Life in Color
Class MM: Two Photographic Note Cards. Folded note cards with photo. Folded size of card minimum 4 inches by 6 inches, maximum folded size 5 inches by 7 inches.
Class NN: One Photo Bookmark. May or may not be laminated 2 x 6 inches.
Class OO: One Photo Ornament (does not have to be holiday themed). May be flat or 3 dimensional. Must have a hanger. Minimum 2 x 2 inches, maximum 5 x 5 inches.
Class PP: One Embellished Photo. A photo that has been embellished with jewels, glitter, etc. or natural decorative items (such as small shells, pressed flowers, etc.)
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
Class QA: Black and White Enlargement. 5×7 or 8×10, any subject commercially printed.
Class QB: Color Enlargement. 5×7 or 8×10, any subject commercially printed.
Class QC: Black and White Darkroom Skills. 5×7 or 8×10, any subject from own negative and printing.
Class QD: Color Darkroom Skills. 5×7 or 8×10, any subject from own negative and printing.
Class QE: Special Effects. Double exposure, painting with light, etc.
4-H PHOTO RECORD
Class R: Photo Story
(Has a beginning, middle and an end) A minimum of 3 prints is required to report any subject giving an in-depth look at many aspects or facets of the subject. Up to 6 black and white or color photo pictures (each 4×6 inches or larger, up to 8×12 inches or 5×14 inches) that tell a story. Include a title. Will be judged on content and quality of photos.
Class S: Theme grouping picturing similar shapes, or using similar colors (i.e. shades of red.)
Class T: Photo Scrap booking
One page entry per member. The page will be 8 1/2 x11 or 12×12 inches, one side only. Exhibit two to six pictures with journalizing and embellishments (i.e. stickers, die cuts, borders, etc.) Will be judged on content, creativity and design.
4-H PHOTOJOURNALISM
- Please see Scorecard #C1042 from Extension. One entry allowed per class
- All photos must be newsworthy.
- They must be captioned and include information on who, what, where, when and why in each caption.
- Photos may be black and white or color.
Class U: Photojournalism Photo
One enlargement size: 5×7, 8×10, 8×12, 4×12, or 5×14: matted or mounted on white mat or poster board.
Class V: Photojournalism Story Board
2 to 4 photos: any size but total exhibit must not exceed 11×14 inches including the mat or poster board mounting; depicting a single newsworthy story.
Class W: Photojournalism Album
Minimum of 10 newsworthy photos: published and unpublished work of the exhibitor, with suggested cut lines. If published, include a copy of the publication.
4-H DIGITAL IMAGING
- Please see Score Card #C1041 from Extension. One entry per class.
- All finished pictures must be no smaller than 5×7 and no larger than 8×10.
- Black and white pictures must be done with gray scale. Color photos must be done with RGB or CMYK. Minimum printer output of 300 DPI or PPI should be used. All photos must be printed on photographic paper. No copy paper exhibits will be accepted.
- It is recommended that digital captures be taken on “high” resolution. Digital captures must be color corrected. The original image must be part of the mounted display, on the front of the exhibit mat for comparison (except for the enlargement in Class Z.)
- A typed index card must be part of the mounted display, on the front of the exhibit mat, explaining what was done to arrive at the finished image.
- See the rules section at the beginning of Department 19 to understand how the 4-H photography label must be written out, and the margin requirements. The outside dimension of the mat or poster board should be no larger than 14”x22”.
Class X: Regular film and Camera black/white or colored.
Digitally imaged by scanning then enhanced or manipulated and printed by exhibitor. film → scanned → manipulated
Class Y: Digital Capture. Image captures Black/White or Color.
Photo taken with a digital camera, then enhancedor manipulated and printed by exhibitor. digital photo → manipulated
Class Z: Scanned enlargement imaged by a regular camera. Image capture with regular camera and film (not digital) scanned and enlarged with no manipulation of any kind.
Printed by exhibitor with original photo attachedto the back. film → scanned → NOT manipulated
The following lots apply to classes A-Z, AA-PP, & QA-QE:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class ZZ: Photo Album:
Open to all members. Pictures must have a caption or self-critique. This album must contain only pictures from the current 4-H year. Grand and Reserve Grand may be awarded to each lot at the discretion of the judge.
Lots for class ZZ and the number of prints required as follows:
- Lot 1. First year album: 25 prints
- Lot 2. Second year album: 30 prints
- Lot 3. Third year album: 35 prints
- Lot 4. Fourth year album: 40 prints
- Lot 5. Fifth year album: 45 prints
- Lot 6. Sixth year album: 50 prints
- Lot 7. Seventh year album: 55 prints
- Lot 8. Eighth year album: 60 prints
- Lot 9. Ninth year album: 65 prints
- Lot 10. Tenth year Album: 70 prints
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Classes A-I, P-Y, Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Class J-N: Blue-50 Red-40 White-30
Class O: Blue-80 Red-65 White 50
Rules:
- Any natural science entry being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29
ASTRONOMY
- One entry per youth in classes A, C, and E
- Three entries per youth in Classes B, D and F are allowed.
- Functional equipment may be handmade or commercially purchased with documented exhibitor learning included.
- A 3×5 card describing what the exhibitor learned is encouraged.
- Do not bring expensive or sentimental telescopes; exhibitor assumes risk of damage.
Class A: General Astronomy Notebooks: includes logs, readings, notes, sky of the month or essay
Class B: Functional Equipment: telescopes, star charts, plano-sphere, and celestro-sphere
Class C: Creative Astronomy Models
Class D: Scientifically Accurate Models: other than solar systems.
Class E: Solar System Models
Class F: Other item not listed
The following lots apply to classes A-F.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
ENTOMOLOGY
- All insect exhibits must be labeled to give the order and common name of insects in the collection and scientific name to as many as possible. All work, including labeling, should be that of the member.
Class G: Insect collection containing 25 insects, including at least 5 orders
Class H: Exhibit of life stages of an insect, from egg to adult
Class I: Exhibit showing control or management of insects
Class J: Insect collection mounted and named including order and family, 50 insects involving 10 orders
Class K: Exhibit of the special activities of one insect
Class L: Insect collection preserved in plastic, named including order and family, 50 insects involving 10 orders
Class M: Special collection of insects by economic importance, habitat, order, immature insects, foreign insects, etc.
Class N: Apiary exhibit showing honey, beeswax or home crafted hives and/or supers
Class O: Insect collection mounted and named to family and order, 75 insects involving 10 orders
The following lots apply to classes G-O.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
- Each exhibit must have a 3×5 with it explaining the project for example:
- What the project is
- Why the topic was chosen
- What the exhibitor learned
- Any sources used
- Exhibits may include displays, posters, models, photo essays, experiments (non‑perishable), or educational demonstrations.
Class P: Air (Quality/Pollution)
Class Q: Energy (Efficiency/Alternatives)
Class R: Forestry (Management/Species Identification)
Class S: Marine Life/Oceanography
Class T: Soil (Evaluation/Testing/Management)
Class U: Water (Rivers, Lakes, Wetlands, Aquafers)
Class V: Wildlife
Class W: Weather/Climate
Class X: Responsible Recreation
Class Y: Recycling
The following lots apply to classes P-Y.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Classes A-J Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- Classes A and B require that a copy of the plan sheet or design sheet accompany the exhibit
- No live engines allowed
- Classes A-D must have been successfully flown prior to exhibiting. A completed Certificate of Flight must accompany each entry
- Class D is intended for entries of your own design. Attach a 3×5 card to entry telling what the item is, what you did, and what was learned.
- Any technological science entry being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29
AEROSPACE/ROCKETRY
Class A: Rockets built from plans other than kits
Class B: Rockets designed and built by exhibitor
Class C: Model rockets from kits
Class D: Aerospace projects – Aerospace Projects may include gliders, UAV models, airfoils, balloon craft, payload‑delivery systems, recovery system experiments, or other original aerospace designs.
BICYCLES AND ENGINES
- A 3×5 card telling what the item is, its use, what you did, and what was learned must be included.
Class E: Bicycles
Class F: Small Engines – Small engines must be completely drained of fuel and oil and be clean for display.
ELECTRICITY
- A 3×5 card telling what the item is and its use, must be included.
Class G: Electricity (circuit board, radio, motor, flashlight, switch, etc.)
COMPUTERS
- A 3×5 card telling what the item is and its use, must be included
Class H: Computer Technology
Class I: Geospatial
Class J: Robotics
The following lots apply to Classes A-J
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- Open to members enrolled in the Woodworking project.
- Projects must be completed in the current 4‑H year.
- Exhibitors must do the majority of the work; adults may assist only for safety‑critical operations (e.g., table saw cuts) as marked by the exhibitor.All projects must be stable, safe, and free of exposed hazards (nails, screws, splinters).
- Finishes must be dry, non‑tacky, and odor‑free at check‑in.
- Judging will follow the Woodworking Exhibit Score Card (C0063E) and the Standards of Quality in Crafts (EM4720E)
- Exhibitors must attach a Maker Notes Card describing:
- What skills were used
- What cuts/measures the exhibitor performed
- Where adult help was required (safety only)
- What challenges were faced and solved
- Cloverbuds may only enter Classes A (Guided Builds), D (Creative Builds), and F (Reclaimed Builds).
- One entry per exhibitor per class.
CLASS A: Guided Build/“Kit Builds”
Structured projects using pre‑cut or pre‑shaped components with adult support expected. Emphasizes early tool skills, confidence, and careful assembly.
Examples may include: pre‑cut toolbox, birdhouse kit, simple step stool, phone stand, hammered assembly projects, introductory wooden toys.
CLASS B: Independent Build
Projects in which the exhibitor performs most measuring, cutting, and assembly independently.
Adult involvement is advisory only (except for safety‑critical cuts). Mistakes recognized and corrected are viewed positively.
Examples may include: toolboxes from dimensional lumber, small tables, garden boxes, storage crates, shop stools.
CLASS C: Advanced Build
High‑skill, complex, or highly planned projects requiring sustained effort or advanced techniques. Ambition and challenge level should be recognized and rewarded.
Examples may include: furniture pieces, cabinetry, multi‑component structures, joinery‑focused builds, workbenches.
CLASS D: Creative Builds
Focus on imagination, original design, and unique ideas. Precision is not the primary criterion.
Examples may include: chicken playground equipment, whimsical sculptures, decorative signs, campfire roasting sticks, artistic wood projects.
CLASS E: Traditional Woodcrafts
Emphasizes classic methods and hand‑tool skills.
Examples may include: hand‑tool builds, mortise‑and‑tenon joinery, carved wooden utensils, carving, whittling, lathe turning, hand woodburning.
CLASS F: Reclaimed/Sustainability Builds
Projects primarily from salvaged or reclaimed materials. Judging emphasizes transformation, resourcefulness, and environmental awareness over polish.
Examples may include: reclaimed‑lumber furniture, pallet builds, driftwood creations, restored or upcycled items, hybrid‑material projects.
CLASS G: Collaborative Builds
Created by a small team of youth working toward a shared vision. Maker Notes must describe each member’s role.
Examples may include: group learning projects, benches, lending library boxes, garden structures.
CLASS H: Next-gen Woodworking
Projects incorporating digital fabrication or hybrid digital‑physical processes such as laser cutters, CNC machines, or 3D‑printed elements.
Examples may include: laser‑engraved projects, CNC‑cut components, wood builds with 3D‑printed hardware or decorative features.
The following lots apply to classes A-H unless noted differently above
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Blue-30 Red-20 White-10
Rules:
- One entry per class.
- Entries must have been planted, grown, and cared for by the 4-H member in San Juan County.
- Produce must be clean, pest and disease free.
- Compost must be made by the exhibitor.
- Please pick up all vegetables between 9:00am-12:00pm on Monday after Fair. Exhibits left behind will be donated.
- Flowers in arrangements need not be grown by member. Refer to Open Class section for information on color list, cut flower types. All containers should be marked with the exhibitors’ name. The exhibitor is responsible for claiming containers at the closing of the Fair.
Class A: Flowers (3 single stems or 1 multiple spray/stalk in vase or container.
Class B: Flower Arrangement (2 or more varieties)
Class C: Baskets, Container Gardens or Potted Plants
Class D: Beans, peas (Bring 6)
Class E: Beets, carrots, potatoes, radishes, all root and tuber crops (bring 6)
Class F: Cabbage, lettuce, broccoli (1 Head)
Class G: Garlic (3 Heads)
Class H: Peppers (Bring 3)
Class I: Pumpkins (1 Large, 2 Mini)
Class J: Squash (Bring 2)
Class K: Tomatoes (Bring 4)
Class L: Berries (1 cup, no wild berries)
Class M: Rhubarb (3 stalks)
Class N: Herbs (Must be in pot or vase)
Class O: Peaches (4)
Class P: Apples (4)
Class Q: Pears (4)
Class R: Compost (Quart size zip-lock bag)
Class S: Food Sculpture (Must be made of vegetable materials, need not be grown by member)
Class T: Scarecrow (must be able to stand on its own)
Class U: Other not listed (4)
The following lots apply to classes A-U:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
CLASS V: Group Outdoor Scarecrow Exhibition
- Designed and built by a family, group, or club. All builders must enter in FairEntry to earn premiums. One ribbon and/or rosette will be awarded per entry.
- Displayed outdoors near the Marie Boe 4‑H Building as part of the Garden Guardians Display.
- Scarecrows must be fully weather‑resistant for a multi‑day outdoor display.
- Scarecrows must be free‑standing and able to remain upright on their own.
- Exhibitors may use their own base structures. The Fair may provide hay bales for stabilization, but wood, rebar, posts, stakes, or other structural materials will NOT be provided.
- Any anchoring must be safe, secure, and must not create sharp hazards or protruding edges.
- Scarecrow installations must not block walkways, interfere with pedestrian flow, or create tripping hazards.
- Scarecrows must be removed by exhibitors at the conclusion of the Fair. Items left after the posted pick‑up time will be discarded.
Judging Criteria:
- Creativity
- Theme connection
- Use of reclaimed or natural materials
- Visual impact
- Teamwork (describe in entry card)
The following lot applies to class V:
- Lot 1. Group Build
Location: Wool fleeces and fiber arts items will be judged and displayed in the Marie Boe 4-H Building. Llama Fiber will be judged by the llama judge and displayed in the llama barn.
Points Allowed: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- All entries must have a 3×5 card included which explains:
- Type of fiber/fleece
- Age & gender of animal
- Where & how the fiber was collected
- Extra details (i.e. did the youth help shear, was the animal placed in a coat prior to shearing, was the animal fed anything special for its fleece production)
Rules for Fleece:
- Wool will be graded and judged on the following criteria:
- Cleanliness of fleece
- Staple length
- Fiber diameter
- Handle (soundness, weathering, softness, second cuts)
- Weight and color when applicable.
- Fleeces must have been shorn this year and must not represent more than one year’s growth.
- Fleeces are to be clean, unwashed, skirted and delivered in plastic bags. After judging, they will be set on top of the bag so the public may touch them.
- Skirting means removing vegetable matter, belly wool, tags, and unusable edges before bagging.
- Judging may be in the wool barn, but the fleeces that are entered as 4-H Fleeces will be exhibited in the Marie Boe 4-H Building.
- Limited to one fleece per gender and age. (Ewe, Ram, Wether – Under and Over 1 years)
- The Judge or superintendent may disqualify any entry for just cause and may reassign entries to categories as deemed proper.
Rules for Fiber:
- Enter Two (2) 1-ounce baggies of clean fiber with as little guard hair and debris as possible. Fiber entries must be submitted with an entry tag. The fiber sample must be from an animal entered and exhibited at the fair. Fibers will be displayed so that they can be touched.
- Fiber samples must be clean, fully dried, and free of lanolin buildup, sand, burrs, or contaminants.
Class A: Wool Fleece
Class B: Angora Goat Hair
Class C: Angora Rabbit Hair
Class D: Llama Fiber
Class E: Alpaca Fiber
The following lots apply to classes A-E:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Class A: Blue-60 Red-40 White-20
Class B: Blue-40 Red-20 White-10
Rules:
- Each entry must include a 3×5 card describing the animal, tanning method, and how the hide was obtained.
- Hides must be legally obtained and ethically sourced. No illegally harvested wildlife hides allowed.
- The tanning process must be primarily completed by the exhibitor. Adult assistance allowed only for safety-critical steps (chemical handling, sharp scraping tools).
- Large skins generally include deer, sheep, goat, large dog, coyote, fox, or similarly sized hides.
- Small skins include rabbit, squirrel, mink, muskrat, weasel, or similarly sized hides.
- Traditional or commercial tanning methods are acceptable but must be described on the 3×5 card.
Basis for scoring:
- Pliability 40 points
- Cleanliness 10 points
- Freedom from tears and holes 20 points
- Adherence of hair or fiber to skin 20 points
- Shape 10 points
Class A: Large Skins
Class B: Small Skins
The following lots apply to classes A-B:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Class A-B, P, R and S: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Class C-I: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Class J-O, Q, T, U, and V: Blue-80 Red-60 White-40
Rules:
- Classes I and Q–V are due the Sunday before Fair from 10AM–2PM, or no later than 9AM Monday of Fair week at the Marie Boe 4‑H Building. Exhibitors may also submit these entries to the Extension Office prior to that Sunday. Stall Stories will be evaluated and returned before the barns open for display.
- Requirements, Information and Deadlines for entering Record Books can be acquired from the Extension Office or found on the 4-H Website.
- A Club Treasurer, Secretary, Reporter or President may submit a book as an entry in Class C. The Officer’s book will contain planning/meeting records, and must be neat and complete.
- Judging will take place at the Fair for Classes C-H.
- Classes A & B will be judged after the Fair. 4-H Record Books (handwritten or electronic) are due on the published deadline after the Fair so that members can record their Fair highlights in their Record Books. These will be judged after the Fair, awarded premium points, and special awards (when available).
- Any communicative arts entry being assisted by AI technology must be entered in Department 29
4-H CLUB RELATED
Class A: Level 1 Complete 4-H Record Book (Annual and Permanent Record Books)
Class B: Level 2 Complete 4-H Record Book (Annual and Permanent Record Books)
Class C: 4-H Club Officer’s Book
Class D: 4-H Scrap book
This class will be a written and pictorial record of experiences with projects and activities in 4-H. It will be judged on creativity, neatness, design and clear legible journaling.
Class E: 4-H Event Poster
Class F: 4-H Cover Design (book, C.D., program cover etc.)
Class G: 4-H Newspaper Report
Review of an event or an experience i.e. workshop, book, play, movie, etc. The report shall be one page typed, and pictures are encouraged. Follow the guidelines in the 4-H Reporter PNW0325, available at the Extension Office.
Class H: 4-H Leadership Notebook/Binder
This is for members who have created notebooks that help others coordinate an activity, event, or project. A great organizational tool for a club.
CLASS I: 4-H Animal Project Stall Story
This is for members who are exhibiting an animal and would like to provide a stall story to be displayed on their cage/pen. These will be evaluated and returned to members prior to the opening of fair.
WRITTEN EXPRESSIVE ARTS
- Poetry to be presented in a typed format on 8.5-11 inch paper, or, in the case of Class P, typed or formatted on a word processor, or carefully drawn to be readable. Poetry collections shall be presented in a manuscript form, titled, indexed and typed.
Class J: Short Poem–24 lines or fewer-rhymed
Class K: Short Poem–24 lines or fewer-unrhymed
Class L: Long Poem–24 lines or more-rhymed
Class M: Long Poem–24 lines or more-unrhymed
Class N: Ballad– Poem that tells a story in rhymed verse in 24 lines or more
Class O: Concrete Poem–A poetic idea expressed both through language and shape (visual)
Class P: Acrostic Poem–A visual acronym is formed vertically, with each letter of this vertical word or phrase, beginning a line of poetry that develops the idea of the word or phrase.
Class Q: Poetry Collection– Representing a variety of poetic styles or a variety of poems with a thematic link (4-6 poems can represent a collection)
Class R: Original Story
Class S: Original Book
Class T: Original Play (musical or drama that can be either fanciful or factual.)
Class U: Original Musical Score
Class V: Other not listed
The following lots apply to classes A-V:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Locations: Department appropriate location determined by Superintendent
Points Allowed: Blue-80 Red-60 White-40
Rules:
- Participants must put their full names and indicate the class on their judging cards to avoid disqualification. Placing your island on your scorecard is appreciated.
- NO TALKING while judging.
- Classes may include live animals, photos, or videos depending on availability.
- Coaching or signaling from adults or peers is prohibited.
- Cloverbuds may participate for educational experience only. Cloverbud judging cards will not be scored or ranked. Cloverbuds receive rainbow participation ribbons only, per WA 4‑H Cloverbud guidelines.
Class A: Horse
Class B: Rabbits/Cavy
Class C: Poultry
Class D: Dog
Class E: Cat
Class F: Pocket Pets/Exotic Animals
Class G: Large Livestock
Class H: Llama/Alpaca
Class I: Still Life
The following lots apply to classes A-I:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: N/A – This department is experimental this year
Purpose:
- The AI Projects Department provides a space for 4-H members to explore artificial intelligence as a tool for creative expression, problem-solving and innovation. Participants can showcase their AI-assisted work while learning about responsible and ethical use.
- AI use includes generative tools (image, text, music, or code), automated content‑creation tools, or advanced enhancement systems. Basic spell‑check, autocorrect, cropping, or exposure correction do not require entry in Department 29.
- This department ensures that 4-H members can engage with emerging technology while maintaining the core values of learning, responsibility, and creativity.
Rules:
- Participants must describe how AI was used in their project.
- Ethical considerations (e.g. originality, AI tools used, transparency) must be acknowledged.
- Entries should include a brief explanation of the member’s creative process.
- Projects must adhere to 4-H values and Fair policies.
- If an entry is believed to be AI assisted and entered in any department outside of Department 29, the entry will be moved to Department 29 and no premiums will be awarded.
Judging Criteria
- Creativity & Innovation (30%) – How effectively is AI used to enhance the project?
- Technical Skill (20%) – Level of complexity in AI usage.
- Presentation & Clarity (20%) – How well is the project explained and displayed?
- Originality & Ethical Use (30%) – Is the project original, does it demonstrate responsible AI use?
Class A: AI-Generated Art & Design – Digital artwork, illustrations, or graphic designs created with AI tools. AI-assisted photography or image enhancement.
Class B: AI-Generated Writing & Storytelling – Short stories, poems, or essays generated with AI assistance. AI-assisted scriptwriting or dialogue creation.
Class C: AI Music Composition – AI-generated or AI-enhanced musical compositions. Mashups, soundscapes, or remixes using AI tools.
Class D: AI-Assisted Coding & Game Design – Games, apps, or software projects incorporating AI elements. AI-driven chatbots, interactive stories, or automation tools.
Class E: AI in Science & Innovation – AI-powered data analysis, environmental monitoring, or research. AI-assisted engineering, robotics, or predictive modeling.
Class F: All other AI projects – For any other project assisted by AI not listed above
The following lots apply to classes A-F:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
4-H Small and Large Animal Departments
Location: Poultry/Rabbit Tent
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White 60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Individual Type: Blue-30 Red-20 White-10
Meat Pen Type: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules for Market Rabbit Project:
- Read and follow all rules within the Market Animal Auction section of the Premium Book.
Rules:
- Before the Fair: club leaders should notify the Superintendent of the number of cages they will need.
- Upon entry the vet will inspect all animals. 4-H Rabbit Club Leaders from all islands will verify that the rabbits/cavies entered by 4-H Members in their Clubs are healthy and free of parasite to the best of their knowledge. The Veterinarian will have final say in rejecting any animal showing signs of insect infestation or disease.
- Type Class: All animals will be judged according to the Standard of Perfection except crossbreds. Youth are responsible for bringing their animals to the show table for type class. If youth have multiple animals to bring to the table within a breed, youth are responsible for finding a friend to help them. Rabbits not brought to the show table will not be judged.
- Does with litters should be entered under the breed of the doe. The litter should be old enough to eat a commercial rabbit feed or grain, i.e. Litters must be at least 4 weeks old. Kits younger than 4 weeks may not be exhibited.
- Rabbits must have continuous access to water. Ice bottles or cooling devices may be used as long as they do not leak.
- Crossbreeds and pet-quality animals are judged on condition, cleanliness, health, and general type. They are not judged against ARBA type standards and are not eligible for Best of Show.
- No artificial coloring, trimming of whiskers, or grooming products that alter natural appearance.
- Cavies must be clean and dry; coat-altering products or excessive grooming may be penalized.
Rabbit
Class A: Rabbit Showmanship
Class B: Rabbit Herdsmanship
The following lots apply to classes A-B:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class C: Fancy or Small Breeds
Lot 1. Dutch
Lot 2. Netherland Dwarf
Lot 3. Polish
Lot 4. Havana
Lot 5. Florida Whites
Lot 6. English Angora
Lot 7. French Angora
Lot 8. Mini Lop
Lot 9. Holland Lop
Lot 10. Himalayan
Lot 11. Jersey Wooly
Lot 12. Dwarf Hotot
Lot 13. Mini Rex
Lot 14. Harlequin
Lot 15. Other fancy or small purebreds not listed above.
The following sub-lots apply to Class C, Lots 1-15
Sub-Lot JB. Junior Buck (under six months of age)
Sub-Lot SB. Senior Buck (six months of age and older)
Sub-Lot JD. Junior Doe (under six months of age)
Sub-Lot SD. Senior Doe (six months of age and older)
Sub-Lot DL. Doe with Litter
Class D: Commercial or Heavy Breeds
Lot 1. New Zealand
Lot 2. Californian
Lot 3. English Lops
Lot 4. French Lops
Lot 5. American Chinchilla
Lot 6. Giant Chinchilla
Lot 7. Standard Chinchilla
Lot 8. Satins
Lot 9. Palominos
Lot 10. Checkered Giants
Lot 11. Silver Fox
Lot 12. Hotot
Lot 13. Lilac
Lot 14. Flemish Giant
Lot 15. Rex
Lot 16. Other commercial or heavy purebreds not listed above.
The following sub-lots apply to Class D, Lots 1-16
Sub-Lot JB. Junior Buck (under six months of age)
Sub-Lot IB: Intermediate Buck (six months of age but under eight months of age)
Sub-Lot SB. Senior Buck (eight months of age and older)
Sub-Lot JD. Junior Doe (under six months of age)
Sub-Lot ID: Intermediate Doe (six months of age but under eight months of age)
Sub-Lot SD. Senior Doe (eight months of age and older)
Sub-Lot DL. Doe with Litter
Class E: Crossbreeds, Pet Quality, or Neutered (not eligible for Best of Show)
Lot 1. Junior Buck (under six months of age)
Lot 2. Senior Buck (six months of age and older)
Lot 3. Junior Doe (under six months of age)
Lot 4. Senior Doe (six months of age and older)
Lot 5. Doe with Litter
Class F: Market Pen
Lot 1. A pen of 3 fryers, between 3 and 5.5 lbs. and not over 10 weeks of age of the same breed of the commercial or heavy meat breed rabbits.
CAVY
Class G: Cavy Showmanship
Class H: Cavy Herdsmanship
The following lots apply to classes G-H:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3 Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class I: Cavies
Cavies will be judged by recognized breeds. Crossbreds are not eligible for Best of Show.
Lot 1. Junior Boar- 12 to 22 oz., up to 4 months old.
Lot 2. Junior Sow- 12 to 22 oz., up to 4 months old.
Lot 3. Int. Boar- 23 to 32 oz., between 4 and 6 mo. old
Lot 4. Int. Sow- 23 to 32 oz., between 4 and 6 mo. old
Lot 5. Senior Boar- over 32 oz., older than 6 months
Lot 6. Senior Sow- over 32 oz., older than 6 months
Lot 7. Sow and litter
Location: Poultry/Rabbit Tent
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Individual: Blue-30 Red-20 White-10
Pen or Trio: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Eggs: Blue-20 Red-15 White-10
Rules for Market Poultry Project:
- Read and follow all rules within the Market Animal Auction section of the Premium Book, including the “Intent to Sell” form.
Rules:
- Before the Fair: Club leaders should notify the Superintendent of the number of cages needed. Upon entry the vet will inspect animals. 4-H Poultry Club Leaders from all islands will verify that the poultry entered by 4-H Members in their Clubs are healthy and free of parasite to the best of their knowledge. The Veterinarian will have final say in rejecting any animal showing signs of insect infestation or disease.
- Birds showing any signs of illness—including respiratory discharge, coughing, sneezing, abnormal droppings, lethargy, mites/lice, or unexplained feather loss—will be refused entry or removed at the discretion of the veterinarian or superintendent.
- Exhibitors must ensure birds have continuous access to water. Frozen bottles or other cooling aids are allowed if leak-proof.
- Type Class: All animals will be judged according to the APA Standard of Perfection except for the Pullet Production Layer Class (Class S), the Market Poultry Class (Class T) and the Crossbreed Class (Class L). The Washington Junior Poultry Expo held during the State Fair does not offer classes for crossbreeds.
- Pullet Production Layer Rules (Class S): Each member should raise their pullets from hatchlings. The pullets should be of the Standard Class of production laying breeds, including Sex Links, not mixed breeds, and not a bantam breed. Members should exhibit three pullets of the same breed, type, size and appearance. Birds must be a minimum of 4 months old and be a maximum of 7 months old at Fair time. Pullets will be judged on their health, and body conformation in regard to their potential to lay eggs.
- Poultry members can show two entries per lot. Excluded are classes A, B, Q, R, S, & T.
Class A: Poultry Showmanship
Class B: Poultry Herdsmanship
The following lots apply to classes A-B.
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Please refer to the American Poultry Associations Accepted Breeds and Varieties to properly enter your chickens in the following classes:
Class C: American Class: Plymouth Rock, Rhode Is., New Hampshire, Jersey Giant, etc.
Class D: Asiatic Class: Langshan, Brahmas, Cochin, etc.
Class E: English Class: Australorp, Cornish, Orpingtons, etc.
Class F: Mediterranean Class: Leghorn, Anacona, Minorca, etc.
Class G: Continental Class: Polish, Hamburg, etc.
Class H: All Other Standard Size Breeds: Phoenix, Bubalaya, Araucana, Ameraucana (Easter Eggers) other AOSB
Class I: Game Class Bantams
Class J: Clean Leg Bantams
Class K: Feathered Leg Bantams
Class L: Crossbred Bantams or Standard size. Not eligible for Best Hen, Rooster or Show. Crossbreeds are judged on health, condition, and uniformity only, not breed type.
The following lots apply to classes C-L.
Lot 1. Single cock
Lot 2. Single hen
Lot 3. Single cockerel
Lot 4. Single pullet
Lot 5. Pen of 1 cock and 2 hens
Lot 6. Pen of 1 cockerel and 2 pullets
Lot 7. Pen of broilers (standard size only)
Lot 8. Trio of pullets (not for auction)
Lot 9. Trio of hens
Lot 10. Pair in breed
Class M: Ducks
Class N: Geese
Class O: Turkeys
Class P: Ornamental Breeds
The following lots apply to classes M-P.
Lot 1. Male
Lot 2. Female
Lot 3. Pair of the same breed
Class Q: Dozen Eggs (Not for Market Auction)
- Judged on a uniform and aesthetically pleasing dozen.
- May enter one dozen eggs per lot.
- Eggs must match in size, shape, texture, and color unless entered in Lot 7: Farmer’s Dozen.
- Please see publication C1128E for egg scoring
Class R: One Dozen Eggs (for Market Auction Sale)
- Eligible Junior, Intermediate and Senior 4-H members.
- One dozen per member maximum entry
- Eggs must match in size, shape, texture, and color unless entered in Lot 7: Farmer’s Dozen.
- Eggs entered in Class R must be produced by birds owned and cared for by the exhibitor.
- A fresh dozen eggs should be provided to Auction Buyer immediately after the auction or arrangements should be made to deliver if more time is needed.
- Please see publication C1128E for egg scoring
The following lots apply to classes Q-R:
Lot 1. White
Lot 2. Brown
Lot 3. Bantam
Lot 4. Green/Blue
Lot 5. Ornamental
Lot 6. Duck or Goose
Lot 7. Farmers Dozen (a variety of size, color and species of fowl eggs). Judged on a mis-matched, unblemished and aesthetically pleasing dozen.
Lot 8. Other
Class S: Pullet Production Layers (for Market Auction Sale)
Lot 1. Trio of same breed large fowl (duck or chicken) known for its high egg production.
Class T: Market Poultry (for Market Auction Sale)
Lot 1. Chickens (3) Broilers not over nine weeks of age and at least 3 lbs.
Lot 2. Turkey (1) not over 24 weeks of age and between 14 and 30 lbs.
Lot 3. Pheasants (3) Broilers not over 18 weeks of age and between 1-3 lbs.
Location: Dog Tent and Dog Arena
Points Allowed: Class A: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Class B: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Classes C-H: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- Dogs will be benched for display on show Friday of Fair week. Dogs must enter by side fairground gate off Dougherty Lane. Dogs are not allowed on fairgrounds except where specified for showing and during show times only.
- Agility is open to Junior, Intermediate and Senior participants who have provided the following pre-requisites to the superintendent: Approved dog height card and proof of completion of training class. One agility dog may be entered per participant. Dog show participants must get approval from dog club leader or superintendent for the level of agility registering. See agility levels above. Cloverbuds may do an untimed fun run with completion of prerequisites and prior superintendent approval.
Entry Instructions:
- Competition is open to any breed or mixed breed. Please include the breed of your dog on the showmanship line of the entry form. Mixed breed dog owners pick one AKC recognized breed for their dog that best suits it.
- Cloverbud and Junior members may enter one dog. Intermediate and senior members may enter up to two dogs.
- Entry in every class is encouraged. All dog show participants are required to participate in Showmanship, Obedience, Decoration and Herdsmanship.
- For details on qualifying for State Fair, please see the current WA State 4H Dog Program Policies (PDF) (2023)
- Information On Each Class: Learn more about each class, levels, rules and how they are judged at the San Juan County Dog 4-H website.
Class A: Showmanship
In this fitting & showing class, the handler is judged on preparation and grooming, appearance, dog handling, ring skills and general dog knowledge. Dog should know how to stand for exam and gait around the ring.
Class B: Dog Herdsmanship
Class C: Obedience
Dog’s responses to handler’s obedience commands are judged. Novice classes include sit, down, stay, heel with turns, and recall. More advanced levels include stand, retrieve and jumps.
Class D: Rally Obedience
A fun and interactive version of dog obedience, with a course marked out with signs. Rally Obedience Levels are Novice, Intermediate and Advanced.
Class E: Dog Agility
Handler directs dog through a dog agility obstacle course. Approved dog height card and proof of completion of agility training is required. One agility dog may be entered for each Junior, Intermediate or Senior 4H participant. Cloverbuds may do an untimed fun run with superintendent approval. Agility courses may be “standard” or “jumpers”. Agility levels include Elementary, Pre-Novice, Novice and Open. See link above for more information.
Class F: Service Dog / Good Citizen
Similar to the AKC Canine Good Citizen Test, this class includes a list of 10 obedience and social manners tests. Successful participants earn a certificate in addition to any premium points or ribbon.
Class G: Dog Tricks
Handler directs dog to perform tricks. Each trick is performed twice. Novice and above are performed off-lead. Dog tricks levels are: Beginner – 2 tricks, Novice – 5 tricks, Advanced – 10 tricks.
Class H: Decoration
Each entrant is assigned their own stall/bench area, which is judged on how well the area is decorated with poster(s), signage, displays, decoration of crate and general area, a related craft project, etc.
The following lots apply to classes A-H:
- Lot 1: Cloverbud
- Lot 2: Junior
- Lot 3: Intermediate
- Lot 4: Senior
Total Dog: Each entrant will automatically qualify for the Total Dog competition and be eligible to win ribbons, prizes and/or the Total Dog Award. Total Dog is judged by the most classes entered and the most points earned.
Day of Fair:
- Dogs must enter by side fairground gate off Dougherty Lane. Dogs are not allowed on fairgrounds except where specified for showing and during show times only.
- Dogs must have their vet records with them and pass a vet check prior to showing. Proof of a current rabies vaccination by a licensed veterinarian is required. Vaccination for Bordetella and distemper (CDV) is recommended.
- Use of food treats (bait) is allowed in Showmanship. Food/bait is not allowed in other classes until the participant is outside the ring or as instructed by the judge at the start of each class.
Herdsmanship (with your dog benched).
- Premium points are awarded after completion of your 2-hour shift sometime during the hours of 10-5 Friday of Fair. Sign up on a posted duty schedule provided by the dog superintendent.
Information:
- Please consult the schedule at the Dog Tent and on the website during Fair Month for more activities, demonstrations and events.
- All rules and expectations for other 4-H animal exhibitors, including dress code and sportsmanship will be applicable to this section.
- Adults/non-exhibitors are discouraged from loitering within the working/exhibit area and are encouraged to use the stands.
- Aggressive/Unsocial Dogs: Dogs that exhibit problem behavior that poses a safety issue will be excused from participation in the 4-H Fair at the discretion of the superintendent(s).
Classes have the following Levels and Rules (Sub-lots):
Entrant must specify which skill level they are entering in the following classes. Please contact Dog 4-H leader or Superintendent for more information and approval for competition levels.
Obedience:
Sub Novice
Pre Novice
Beginner Novice
Novice
Advanced Novice
Graduate Novice
Graduate Open
Pre-Open
Open
Pre-Utility
Veterans Modified
Agility: Please see 4- H Agility rules for details on each class:
Elementary – 10-12 obstacles, not timed
Pre-Novice Standard – 12-14 obstacles, timed
Service Dog: n/a one level only
Dog Tricks
Beginner – 2 tricks
Novice A – 5 tricks
Novice B – 10 tricks
DOG EXHIBITOR DRESS CODE:
- 4-H dog project participants must dress tastefully and conservatively Please follow 4-H dress code as described in general fair rules. Anyone working or sitting in the benching area will be dressed appropriately for herdsmanship.
- Adults/non-exhibitors do not perform herdsmanship duties, but if in the working area must make an appropriate appearance to prevent reduction in herdsmanship scores for the 4-H member. Adults/non-exhibitors are discouraged from loitering within the working/exhibit area.
- Aggressive/Unsocial Dogs: Dogs that exhibit aggressive, and/or unsocial, and/or problem behavior that cannot be controlled by their handler, are a serious safety issue. Leaders and superintendents have the immediate authority to excuse or place restrictions on such dog’s participation in the 4-H Fair.
Location: Cat Tent
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Type and Cage Decoration: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- Cats may be declawed or have clipped, capped claws.
- Cat must be free of all parasites (fleas, ear mites, ticks, etc.) and be in good health, clean and groomed. Cats must be free of any contagious condition including ringworm, respiratory infections (URI), or diarrhea. Cats showing symptoms will be excused by the vet.
- Cat must be up to date for all vaccinations and provide documentation of current rabies inoculation. FVRCP vaccination is strongly recommended for fairground biosecurity.
- All cats must arrive in an appropriate, safe animal carrier.
- All entries will be handled by their owner or handler and will be judged on leash and harness. Breakaway collars may not be used for showing. A secure “H‑style” or vest‑style harness is required.
- REQUIRED! All cat members are required to do at least a one-hour shift of herdsmanship
- All judging and scoring will be done by 4-H standards and show procedures and scoring from WSU cat publications.
- Cage must have Animal Stall Card for identification and project information.
- Exhibitors must provide water for their cats at all times.
- All decorated cat cages must be the work of the youth. Toys and decorations need not be original, but the combination will be the idea and construction of the 4-H Member.
- The Grand Champion cats in Showmanship will be the entry in the Small Animal Round Robin. The final choice of cat for safety purposes will be the Superintendent’s choice.
- No pregnant or nursing cats allowed.
- Intact male cats must be safely handled on harness and may be benched away from other intact males at superintendent discretion.
- 4-H cats must pass a vet check prior to showing and should have their vet records with them. All vaccines should be up to date including rabies.
Class A: Showmanship (use EM4810 publication)
Class B: Cat Herdsmanship
Class C: Cage Decoration (cats must be in full view)
The following lots apply to classes A-C
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class D: Purebred Cat
Lot 1. Male (Toms and neutered)
Lot 2. Female (Queens and spayed)
Class E: Household Cat
Lot 1. Male (Toms and neutered)
Lot 2. Female (Queens and spayed)
Class F: Senior Cats (10+ years)
Lot 1. Male (Toms and neutered)
Lot 2. Female (Queens and spayed)
Class G: Kittens (4 months – 8 months of age)
Lot 1. Purebred-both sexes
Lot 2. Household-both sexes
Location: The Marie Boe 4-H Building
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Type and Cage Decor: Blue 30 Red-20 White-10
Rules:
- Members must be enrolled in Explore the World of Small Animals project listing. Limit of 5 animals per member.
- The member is responsible for the care, feeding, proper housing and display of their animals.
- Animals must be in good health. A vet check (if possible) will be necessary before animals are put on display.
- All animals must be in a secure and leak proof cage or aquarium. Padlocks might be necessary and supplies by exhibitor.
- Electrical outlets are limited if heat is needed during the day. The building is not heated. Only enclosed, UL‑listed heat sources are permitted. No exposed heat lamps or devices that pose a fire risk.
- Please check with superintendents with regards to heating and/or pet removal at night.
Class A: Showmanship
Class B: Pocket Pet Herdsmanship
Class C: Cage Decoration
- The cage decorations should complement the animal inside and provide optimum public viewing.
The following lots apply to Classes A-C:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class D: Animal Type
Lot 1. Rat
Lot 2. Ferret
Lot 3. Chinchilla
Lot 4. Hedge Hog
Lot 5. Snake
Lot 6. Lizard
Lot 7. Hamster
Lot 8. Other not listed (entries must be pre‑approved by the superintendent to ensure legality and safety)
Location: Sheep/Goat Barn
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Type: Blue-80 Red-60 White-40
Rules for All Goat Members:
- Goats with horns must wear horn protection at all times in the show ring. No horned dairy goat animals are allowed. No horned animals may be shown by Cloverbud members. Please refer to all the rules about horned animals in Washington State 4-H Policy and Procedure Handbook. Approved horn protection includes securely fitted tennis balls, pool‑noodle padding, or commercial horn protectors. Tape alone is not adequate. Superintendent has final approval of horn safety.
- Members exhibiting goats may show in either Small or Large Goat showmanship, but not both, unless the member has properly enrolled for each one.
- Small Goat showmen (other than Cloverbuds) qualify for the Small Animal Round Robin.
- Novelty (defined as a small goat purebred or cross-bred) or Pygmy goats must be equal to or less than 23 inches in height (at the shoulder) and weighs no more than 65 pounds.
- All goats exhibited at the fair must have official USDA scrapie identification (approved tag or registered herd tattoo). Wethers are exempt.
Class A: Small Goat Showmanship
Small Goat is defined as a mature goat (over one year) under the height of 23 inches when measured from the ground to the top of the shoulder and weighting less than 65 pounds. Or (if under one year) a Pygmy, Small Breed Fiber Goat or a mixed breed where one of the parents is a Pygmy, or a small breed fiber goat.
Class AA: Small Goat Dairy Showmanship
All small dairy goats. A Small Dairy Goat is defined as a mature goat under 23 inches when measured from the ground to the top of the shoulder and weighting less than 65 pounds. Is a Nigerian dwarf, other dairy breed or has at least one dairy breed parent under 23 inches.
Class B: Small Goat Herdsmanship
The following lots apply to classes A, AA, & B:
- Lot 1. Cloverbud
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class C: Pygmy
Class D: Fiber Breed
Class E: Other Breed and Crossbreeds
The following lots apply to classes C-E:
Lot 1. Does under 1 yr (Kid)
Lot 2. Doe 1 – 2 yrs (Yearling)
Lot 3. Doe 2+ yrs (Aged Doe)
Lot 4. Buck kid under 6 months
Lot 5. Wether
Class F: Nigerian Dwarf
Class G: Other Mini Breeds and Crossbreeds
The following lots apply to classes F-G:
Lot 1. Buck kid, under 6 months
Lot 2. Doeling, under 1 year
Lot 3. Dry yearling, under 2 years
Lot 4. Milking yearling, under 2 years
Lot 5. Doe, over 2 years
Lot 6. Wether
Lot. 7. Pair – 2 goats from same herd
Lot 8. Best udder – Goat must be lactating or “in milk”
Location: Cattle Barn
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Type: Blue-80 Red-60 White-40
Rules:
- All animals will be shown in the breed of the sire.
- Washington is a Brucellosis‑free and TB‑free state. Additional testing is not required unless the animal originates from out of state.
- Bulls over 12 months may not be exhibited. Bulls must be securely tied with both a halter and neck rope at all times.
Class A: 4-H Dairy Cattle Showmanship
Class B: Dairy Cattle Herdsmanship
The following lots apply to classes A-B.
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class C: Holstein
Class D: Jersey
Class E: Guernsey
Class F: Dexter
Class G: Others
The following lots apply to Classes C-G
Lot 1. Heifer Calf, 4 to 12 months
Lot 2. Yearling Heifer, 13 to 23 months
Lot 3. Cow – milking, 2 to 3 years
Lot 4. Cow 3 years and over
Lot 5. Junior Bull calf, 8 Months or less
Lot 6. Senior Bull calf, 9-12 Months
Lot 7. Cow/Calf pair
Location: Cattle Barn
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Type: Blue-80 Red-60 White-40
Rules for Market Beef Project:
- Read and follow all rules within the Market Animal Auction section of the Fair Book.
General Rules:
- Out-of-state cattle must comply with WA import requirements (health certificate, tests) if applicable; contact the 4-H office in advance.
- Bulls over 12 months of age may not be exhibited. Bulls must be double-tied (halter + neck rope) when stalled. Nose lead suggested for ring work at superintendent’s discretion.
Class A: 4-H Beef Cattle Showmanship
Class B: Beef Cattle Herdsmanship
The following lots apply to classes A-B:
- Lot 2. Junior Division
- Lot 3. Intermediate Division
- Lot 4. Senior Division
Class C: Aberdeen Angus
Class D: Hereford
Class E: Charolais
Class F: Other purebreds not listed
Class G: Crossbreeds
The following lots apply to Class C-G
Lot 1. Junior Bull Calf, 8 months or less
Lot 2. Senior Bull Calf, 9 to 12 months
Lot 3. Junior Heifer Calf, 8 months or less
Lot 4. Senior Heifer Calf, 9 to 12 months
Lot 5. Junior Yearling Heifer, 13 to 18 months
Lot 6. Senior Yearling Heifer, 19 to 22 months
Lot 7. Aged Cow, calved at least 14 months before Fair
Lot 8. Feeder Beef, under 18 Months
Lot 9. Cow/Calf pair
Class H: Oxen
Lot 1. Under 12 months
Lot 2. 12 months or older (no intact males)
Class I: Feeder Beef
Lot 1. Type Class
Class J: Market Beef
Lot 1. Type Class
Class K: Alternative Breed Market Beef
Lot 1. Type Class
Location: Sheep/Goat Barn
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Type: Blue-80 Red-60 White-40
Rules for Market Lamb Project:
- To qualify as a market lamb for auction, no permanent teeth may be present.
- Read and follow all rules within the Market Animal Auction section of the Premium Book.
Rules:
- Two entries per exhibitor per lot allowed unless otherwise stated.
- All sheep must have official USDA Scrapie Identification (scrapie tag, or registered flock tattoo with matching registration papers). No animal will be allowed to unload without official scrapie ID.
Class A: Sheep Showmanship – Meat Breed
Class AA: Sheep showmanship Milk or Wool/fiber breeds
Wool animals must not have been shorn within 90 days of exhibit
Class B: Sheep Herdsmanship
The following lots apply to classes A, AA, & B:
- Lot 2. Junior Division
- Lot 3. Intermediate Division
- Lot 4. Senior Division
Class C: Suffolk
Class D: Texel
Class E: Dorset
Class F: Lincoln
Class G: Cotswold
Class H: North Country Cheviot
Class I: Hampshire
Class J: Polypay
Class K: Commercial – Ewes Only
Class L: Other Breeds, Meat
Class M: Other Breeds, Wool
Class N: Natural Colored
Class O: Milking Sheep
The following lots apply to classes C-O:
Lot 1. Ram 1 year old and under 2 years old
Lot 2. Ram less than 1 year (Ram lamb)
Lot 3. Pair Ram Lambs
Lot 4. Pair Yearling Ewes
Lot 5. Ewe 1 year old and under 2 years old
Lot 6. Pair of Ewe Lambs
Lot 7. Ewe under 1 year (ewe lamb)
Lot 8. Aged Ewe (2 years and older)
Lot 9. Young flock owned and bred by exhibitor, to consist of one ram lamb and two ewe lambs
Lot 10. Best pair, either sex represented
Lot 11. Produce of Ewe – 2 animals, any age, and either sex.
Lot 12. “Wooly Lamb” ewe, wether, or ram under 2 years old. Natural or colored wool breeds not to have been shorn within 90 days of show. Judged on confirmation, condition, and fiber quality.
Class P: Oak Knoll Farm Best Breeding Ewe
The purpose of this contest is to recognize 4-H members who are actively managing a breeding flock, however small. Each contestant may enter only 1 ewe. The ewe must be a proven breeder, and she must have successfully lambed in the previous 12 months. She may be of any breed, or crossbred, and for any purpose. Contestants must submit a breeding history for the ewe, which will be reviewed by the judge prior to the competition. Ewes will be judged on their conformation to breed and suitability to purpose, and their breeding record. No premium points but a trophy will be awarded to the winner.
- Lot 1. Ewe with records
Class Q: Feeder Lamb
The purpose of this class is for lambs that are not finished and are not ready for harvesting. Underweight market lambs will be moved to this class if necessary.
Class R: Market Lamb (1 entry per exhibitor)
Class S: Companion Lamb (Meat Breed)
The purpose of this class is for meat lambs that are raised as a companion to the market lamb project. Entries will be evaluated on their market readiness but the animals in this class WILL NOT be eligible for auction and must be sold via private treaty or returned to the youth’s care.
Class S: Wether/Sire Dam – No Breed Distinction
The following lot applies to classes Q-T:
Lot 1. Type Class
Location: Swine Barn
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Type: Blue-80 Red-60 White-40
Rules for Market Swine Project:
- Read and follow all rules within the Market Animal Auction section of the Fair Book.
General Rules:
- Per WSDA and USDA recommendations, all swine exhibited at the San Juan County Fair should have official 840-series RFID ear tags for disease traceability. If your swine requires an RFID tag, one will be provided at the early or final weigh-in at no cost.
Class A: Swine Showmanship
Class B: Swine Herdsmanship
The following lots apply to classes A-B:
- Lot 2. Junior Division
- Lot 3. Intermediate Division
- Lot 4. Senior Division
Class C: Duroc Jersey
Class D: Hampshire
Class E: Yorkshire
Class F: Other purebreds not listed
Class G: Crossbreeds
The following lots apply to classes C-G
Lot 1. Boar under 6 months
Lot 2. Gilt, 4 to 6 months
Lot 3. Gilt, over 6 months
Lot 4. Sow
Lot 5. Sow with liter
Class H: Feeder Hog
Lot 1. Type Class
Class I: Market Hog
Lot 1. Type Class
Location: Alpaca Tent
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Performance: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- The Llama/Alpaca should wear a black webbing or leather halter and lead with no adornment.
- The youth shall wear clean appropriate, dark long pants or shirt and dark footwear (no sandals allowed). A white shirt is desirable.
- The Llama/Alpaca will have been groomed for the class.
- The class will be judged on how well the 4-Hers react with the Llama/Alpaca and how well the Llama/Alpaca is trained and presented to the judge.
Class A: Llama/Alpaca Showmanship
Class B: Llama/Alpaca Herdsmanship
Class C: Obstacle Course (Performance)
The 4-H handler will lead the Llama through a series of obstacles. Intermediate and Senior handlers will use a pack on the animal for the obstacle course.
Class D: Public Relations (Performance)
The 4-H handler will lead the Llama through a series of “obstacles” using humans, wheelchair, and other objects found in public.
The following lots apply to classes A-D:
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Location: Sheep/Goat Barn
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Type: Blue-80 Red-60 White-40
Performance Class: Blue-40- Red-30 White-20
Rules for Market Goat Project:
- Read and follow all rules within the Market Animal Auction section of the Premium Book.
- Market goats must be between 70 and 120 pounds at the livestock weigh in held on Wednesday of Fair week.
- The goat must be less than one year of age at the time of Fair. To qualify as a market goat for auction, no permanent teeth may be present.
- Only does and wethers will be allowed. No Billie’s.
- The market goat must be at least 50% meat breed.
Rules for all goat members:
- All goats exhibited at the fair must have official USDA Scrapie Identification (scrapie tag or registered herd tattoo with matching registration papers). Wethers are exempt.
- Goats with horns must wear horn protection at all times in the show ring. No horned dairy goat animals are allowed. No horned animals may be shown by Cloverbud members. Please refer to all the rules about horned animals in Washington State 4-H Policy and Procedure Handbook. Horn protection must consist of securely fitted padding such as tennis balls, pool noodle segments, or commercial horn protectors. Tape alone is not sufficient. Horn protection must be approved by the superintendent.
- Members exhibiting goats may show in either Small or Large Goat showmanship, but not both, unless the member has properly enrolled for each one.
- Large Goat Showmen qualify for the Large Animal Round Robin.
Class A: Large Goat Showmanship
All large goats (meat and fiber animals), except dairy goats. Large Goat is defined as a mature goat 24 inches or taller when measured from the ground to the top of the shoulder. Or as any mixed breed where one parent is a meat breed goat, or large breed fiber goat.
Class AA: Large Dairy Goat Showmanship
All large dairy goats. Large Goat is defined as a mature goat 24 inches or taller when measured from the ground to the top of the shoulder. Or as any mixed breed where one parent is a dairy breed goat (other than Nigerian Dwarf).
Class B: Large Goat Herdsmanship
The following lots apply to classes A, AA, & B:
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Class C: Saanen
Class D: Nubian
Class E: Alpine
Class F: Toggenburg
Class G: LaMancha
Class H: Oberhasli
Class I: Dairy Crossbreds
Class J: All Other Dairy Purebreds
The following lots apply to classes C-J.
Lot 1. Buck kid, under 6 months
Lot 2. Doeling, under 1 year
Lot 3. Dry yearling, under 2 years
Lot 4. Milking yearling, under 2 years
Lot 5. Doe, over 2 years
Lot 6. Wether
Lot 7. Pair – 2 goats from same herd
Lot 8. Best udder – Goat must be lactating or “in milk”
Class K: Fiber Breeds
Class L: Other not listed
The following lots apply to classes K-L:
Lot 1. Buck kid, under 6 months
Lot 2. Doeling, under 1 year
Lot 3. Dry yearling, under 2 years
Lot 4. Milking yearling, under 2 years
Lot 5. Doe, over 2 years
Lot 6. Wether
Lot 7. Pair – 2 goats from same herd
Lot 8. Best udder; Doe must be lactating
Class M: Feeder Goat
Lot 1. Type Class
Class N: Market Goat
Lot 1. Type Class
Class O: Meat Breeding Animal
Lot 1. Does under 1 yr (Kid)
Lot 2. Doe 1 – 2 yrs (Yearling)
Lot 3. Doe 2+ yrs (Aged Doe)
Lot 4. Buck kid under 6 months
Class P: Harness/Pack- Performance Goat in Training
Goat can be led through designated course by handler or assistant with handler and cart.
Class Q: Harness/Pack – Performance Goat Advanced Goat
Goat Driven through designated obstacle course. May be led if there is a refusal.
The following lots apply to classes P-Q:
Lot 1. Junior
Lot 2. Intermediate
Lot 3. Senior
4-H Equine Departments
Superintendent: TBD
Rules and Regulations:
- All 4‑H horse exhibitors must follow these rules in addition to the General 4‑H Animal Entry Rules found at the beginning of the 4‑H section.
- All classes and exhibitor conduct are governed by the Washington State 4‑H Equine Program Rule Book, which supersedes all previous versions. Exhibitors are responsible for knowing the rules.
- WA State 4‑H Equine Program Rule Book (current online edition):
- Tack & Attire: See the State Rule Book for full requirements.
- Bitless bridles are not allowed, except mechanical hackamores in Western Games.
- Chin straps and stirrup keepers are required.
- A tack and attire inspection will occur prior to exhibiting.
- Helmets: ASTM/SEI–approved helmets are required at all times when mounted or driving. No exceptions.
4-H Dress Code:
- Clothing or accessories displaying profanity, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sexual content, or gang affiliation are prohibited.
- No bare midriffs, bare chests/cleavage, undergarments showing, or see‑through clothing. Short shorts, halter tops, tube tops, and thin‑strapped tank tops are not permitted.
- When mounted outside of competition, riders must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves for safety.
- Boots must fit properly in the stirrup, with a defined heel to prevent the foot sliding forward.
Barn & Care Rules:
- Stalls must be cleaned and horses fed and watered by 7:30 AM daily. Failure to maintain stall standards results in forfeiture of premium money.
- Horses arrive Wednesday of fair week for the required veterinary check.
- Stallions are not permitted in 4‑H entries.
Horse Eligibility & Documentation
- Project horses must be identified on the 4‑H Horse Certificate by May 15 (90‑day rule).
- Leased horses must have a 4‑H Horse Lease Form on file by May 15.
- Shared Animals: Two 4‑H members may share a project horse but may not enter the same class or lot.
- Secondary Horse Rule:
- In cases of injury, illness, or safety issues, exhibitors may switch to a certified secondary horse with veterinarian documentation and approval from the 4‑H Program Coordinator.
- Please notify the 4-H Program Coordinator ASAP of any secondary horse switches.
- State Fair Requirement: Exhibitors must compete at State Fair with the same horse used at County Fair. No replacements/substitutes are allowed at State.
Exhibitor Conduct & Assistance:
- Only enrolled 4‑H leaders may assist youth for safety reasons (briefly).
- Parents, trainers, and non‑leader adults may not:
- Groom
- Tack
- Bathe
- Handle
- Ride
- Coach from the sidelines during judged classes
- Exhibitors may seek help from other 4‑H members when needed.
- Only the 4‑H member may ride their project horse during Fair week, except shared horse exceptions.
- No cell phones or electronic devices during herdsmanship, in the ring, or in the warm‑up arena.
County Horse Eligibility Requirements
To show at the San Juan County Fair, members must have:
- Completed Permanent Record Book
- 70% meeting attendance
- Completed a Public Demonstration/Illustrated Talk
- Participated in a Community Service project
Other Requirements
- Exhibitors must participate in the 4‑H Horse Judging Contest.
- Perpetual trophies must be returned to the Extension Office before class entries are accepted.
- Use Open Class Rules and/or the 4‑H Grievance Procedure for disputes.
Points Allowed: Showmanship: Blue-100 Red-80 White-60
Herdsmanship: Blue-100 Red-70 White-50
Performance Classes: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules & Requirements:
- These classes follow the Washington State 4‑H Equine Program Rule Book.
- Exhibitors must show the ability to handle, ride, or drive their horse safely and correctly according to State 4‑H standards.
- The Showmanship class entered determines the exhibitor’s 4‑H division (Performance, Dressage, or Gaming) for premiums and State Fair qualification.
- Only one horse may be used in Showmanship; this horse becomes the exhibitor’s primary project horse for division purposes.
- Horses must be properly prepared, groomed, and equipped for their respective classes.
- Current USEF/USDF tests must be used for all dressage classes.
- All classes must be conducted safely with the welfare of exhibitors and animals as the priority.
SHOWMANSHIP
Exhibitors demonstrate the ability to lead, set up, turn, and control their animal as the judge directs.
Note: Exhibitors may only show one horse in Showmanship. This horse becomes the exhibitor’s primary project horse for determining their division for premiums and State Fair eligibility.
CLASS A: Showmanship
ENGLISH EQUITATION
CLASS B: Hunt Seat Equitation
Judged on form, hands, seat, and overall horsemanship per WA State 4‑H rules.
CLASS C: English Bareback Equitation
Riders are judged on balance, security, and effective communication without a saddle. State 4‑H equitation standards apply.
CLASS D: Equitation Over Fences – 18 inches
Riders execute a course with correct position, release, control, and approach.
CLASS E: Equitation Over Fences – 2 foot 6 inches
Course of at least six obstacles with a change of direction; judged on rider effectiveness rather than minor jumping faults.
CLASS F: Equitation Over Fences – 2 foot 9 inches
For advanced riders demonstrating control, balance, and correct use of aids at the Senior fence height.
SADDLE SEAT EQUITATION
CLASS G: Saddle Seat Equitation
Performed at walk, trot, and canter. Riders should show effective, light control and proper posture consistent with WA State 4‑H Saddle Seat Equitation standards.
WESTERN EQUITATION
CLASS H: Stock Seat Equitation
Judged on seat, hands, appointments, and suitability of horse and rider. Correct rein use and control emphasized per State rules.
CLASS I: Western Bareback Equitation
Evaluates rider balance, posture, and effective cues without the use of a saddle. State 4‑H equitation standards apply.
TRAIL
CLASS J: Trail (Mounted)
A mounted test of rider and horse ability through obstacles requiring control, accuracy, and partnership. State 4‑H Trail (TRR) rules apply.
CLASS K: Trail In-Hand
Exhibitor leads horse through obstacles demonstrating control, safety, and precision as outlined in State 4‑H Trail In‑Hand (TRI) rules.
DRESSAGE
Current USEF/USDF tests must be used. WA State 4‑H requires exhibitors to ride the most current versions; readers may read each movement once.
CLASS L: Dressage – Intro (Test of Choice)
Open to Junior, Intermediate, and Senior riders following State 4‑H Dressage standards.
CLASS M: Dressage – Training Level (Test of Choice)
Scores are based on accuracy, effectiveness of aids, and horse submission/impulsion.
CLASS N: Dressage Seat Equitation
Judged on rider position and effectiveness independent of horse performance. Follows WA 4‑H Dressage Seat Equitation rules.
DRIVING
CLASS O: Pleasure Driving
Evaluated on performance, manners, and suitability in harness per WA State 4‑H driving rules.
CLASS P: Reinsmanship
Judged on the driver’s hands, whip use, posture, and ability to control the horse in harness.
CLASS Q: Precision Driving
A pattern‑based driving class requiring accuracy, smoothness, and control. Recognized in State 4‑H Driving guidelines.
DISCIPLINED RAIL
CLASS R: Disciplined Rail (English or Western)
Judged at the judge’s discretion on precision, transitions, control, and obedience per WA State 4‑H “Disciplined Rail” standards.
The following lots apply to classes A-R:
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
Points Allowed: Blue-40 Red-30 White-20
Rules:
- All Games follow the State 4‑H Western Games rules as outlined in the 4‑H Horse Contest Guide.
- No separate Showmanship class for Gaming. All exhibitors must enter the universal Showmanship class in Department 42.
Allowed equipment:
- Mechanical hackamores only; all other bitless bridles are not permitted.
- ASTM/SEI helmets must be worn at all times while mounted.
- Courses, spacing, penalties, and timing must follow State Western Games specifications.
- Exhibitors must ride only their approved project horse.
- Sub‑lots for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday runs are used for premium awarding only, not to create separate classes.
- The highest‑placing ride is used for ribbon determination when multiple run opportunities occur.
CLASS A: Flag Race
A timed event in which riders carry and/or place flags according to the WA 4‑H Western Games rules. The course requires accuracy, speed, and correct execution of the pattern.
CLASS B: Figure 8
A timed event in which the rider executes the approved Figure 8 pattern around designated markers. Precision through the center crossover is critical. Follows State 4‑H Western Games rules.
CLASS C: Keyhole Race
A timed race requiring the horse to enter the keyhole boundary, turn, and exit without stepping on or crossing the lines. A disqualification occurs if the pattern boundaries are broken. State 4‑H keyhole rules apply.
CLASS D: Pole Bending
Riders run a straight line to the end pole, weave through six poles, turn, re‑weave, and race home. Fastest clean time wins. WA State 4‑H rules define spacing and penalties.
CLASS E: Barrel Racing
Standard cloverleaf pattern run according to WA 4‑H Western Games rules. Riders circle each barrel correctly and return across the finish for time. Knocked barrels incur penalties; breaking pattern results in disqualification.
CLASS F: International Flags
A timed speed event in which the rider picks up and deposits flags in sequence as defined by WA State 4‑H Games rules. Precision and consistent positioning are essential.
The following lots apply to classes A-F:
- Lot 2. Junior
- Lot 3. Intermediate
- Lot 4. Senior
The following sub-lots also apply to classes A-F, please enter each day you plan to ride:
- Thu: Thursday
- Fri: Friday
- Sat: Saturday
Appendices
See Appendix C for form deadlines
Live Auction Forms
Still Life Forms
- Photography Label (San Juan County)
Reasonable Accommodations
Horse
Other
San Juan County Fair Office Forms
Department 1 – Public Presentations
Demonstrations & Illustrated Talks (C0430E)
Department 2 – Educational Booth Displays
Department 3 – Interactive Display
Interactive Display Scorecard (University of Tennessee)
Department 4 – Educational Displays & Posters
Educational Posters (SJC Poster Scorecard)
Charts, Mobiles, Tri Folds, & Food as Science (C0679E)
Department 5 – Technical Posters
Department 6 – Exhibitorship
Exhibitorship Scorecard (SJC)
Department 7 – Performing Arts
Performing Arts Scorecard (C0431)
Department 9 – Clothing & Activities
Creative Consumers of Fashion (C1080E)
Department 10 – Sewn Home Décor
Sewn Home Décor Scorecard (SJC) – Refer to Measuring Up (PNW 197)
Department 11 – Needlecraft
Department 12 – Spinning/Weaving
Fiber Arts (Oregon State 261-02)
Department 13 – Baking & Foods
Decorated Cakes, Cupcakes, Cookies (C1135E)
Quick Breads, Muffins (C0535E)
Shortened Cakes, Cupcakes, Pound Cakes, Coffeecakes (C0067E)
Angel, Chiffon, Sponge Cake (C0066E)
Yeast Breads, Fancy Yeast Breads, Rolls, Yeast Coffeecakes (C0069E)
Fruit Pie, Cream Pie, Cheesecake (C0536E)
Food Activities (C1098E) – Refer to Evaluation Criteria (C1097E), Worksheet (C1099E) & Guidelines (EM4733E)
Department 14 – Food Preservation
Canned Fruit, Tomatoes, and Vegetables (C0203E)
Jelly, Jam, Preserves, Conserves, Marmalade (C0539E)
Canned Pickles and Pickled Products (C0537E)
Canned Meat, Seafood, Poultry (C0204E)
Home Canned Specialties (C1120E)
Dried Foods & Leathers (C0538E)
Food Prepared for the Freezer (C1112E)
Department 15 – Food & Nutritional Skills
San Juan County Fair Food & Nutritional Skills Score Card (SJC)
Department 16 – Table Decorating Arts
Legacy Scorecard (SJC) (C1076) – For Class A – Static Table Display
4-H Table Setting Activity Scorecard (C1076E) – Refer to C1075E for instructions
Department 17 – Crafts and Applied Arts
Department 18 – LEGOs
Department 19 – Fine Arts
Department 20 – Photography
Photography (SJC) – Based off WSU C0064E
Department 21 – Natural Science
Environmental Stewardship (C1024) – out of print
Department 22 – Technological Science
Department 23 – Woodworking
Department 24 – Horticulture
Fresh Fruit and Vegetable (C1122E)
Container Garden, Houseplant, and Dish Garden (C1123E)
Scarecrow (SJC) – Adapted from Purdue University
Department 25 – Fleece & Fiber
Fleece Scorecard (Oregon State)
Department 26 – Tanning
Department 27 – Communicative Arts
Level One Record Book (WSU)
Level Two Record Book (WSU)
Communicative Arts – Club Work (SJC)
Animal Departments
Cat Cage Decoration (From Cat Project Unit One – EM4809E)
These dates last updated March 30, 2026 for the most up to date deadlines please visit the fair section of the website
April 2026
April 1 – Fairbook goes live.
April 15 – 120‑Day Ownership Deadline for Market Beef animals intended for show & auction at the San Juan County Fair.
May 2026
May 1 – Applications open for:
May 2 – San Juan Youth Fair & Public Presentation Day.
May 15 – Horse Project Paperwork Due to Extension Office:
- Horse Certificate (WSU form)
- Horse Lease Agreement (if applicable)
(Required for participation in the San Juan County Fair.)
May 15 – 90‑Day Ownership Deadline for: Horses, Breeding Beef, Alpacas, Llamas, and Dairy Cattle (except replacement heifers). Ownership required to exhibit at Fair.
May 30 – Livestock Spring Weigh‑In — San Juan County Fairgrounds.
JUNE 2026
June 1 – Fair Entry Opens (online).
June 1 – Last day to enroll in 4‑H Still Life Projects for 2026 Fair eligibility.
June 14 – 60 Day Ownership Deadline for: Swine, Lambs, Goats, Cats, Dogs, replacement Heifers. Ownership required to exhibit at Fair.
June 29 – 45 Day Ownership Deadline for: Rabbits, Cavies, Poultry. This deadline also applies to participation in the auction at the San Juan County Fair (turkey trio, alternative poultry trio, broiler trio, rabbit fryer trio, pullet production trio). Ownership required to exhibit at Fair.
JULY 2026
July 1 – Intent to Sell (Large Livestock) + Sifting Committee Memorandum due for: Market Beef, Alternative Beef, Hog, Market Goat, Market Lamb
July 15 – Due to San Juan County Fair Office:
- Fair Camping Reservation Form
- Leaders & Families Fair Entry Gate Passes Form
- Horse Stall Fees
July 15 — Horse Documents Due:
July 15 — Auction Paperwork Due (Small Livestock):
- Intent to Sell (Small Livestock & Eggs)
- Sifting Committee Memorandum
July 15 — Scholarship / Higher Education Deadline:
July 19 – Fair Entry Registration closes at 9:59 p.m.
July 30 – Deadline for Reasonable Accommodation Requests (ADA/504).
AUGUST 2026 — FAIR MONTH
Sunday Before Fair — August 9
Still Life Early Intake (Marie Boe Building):
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Photography, Posters, Stall Stories, and some Written Word entries due for judging
- Off‑island Still Life pickup service available
Monday–Wednesday Before Fair
Still Life Intake Continues at Marie Boe Building
- Monday, August 10: 10am–4pm
- Tuesday, August 11: 10am–4pm
- Wednesday, August 12 (Entry Day): Due by 4pm
August 12 – Day before Fair
- Final Market Animal Weigh‑In
- Producer Affidavits + Market Animal Health Record due at weigh‑in
August 13–16 – San Juan County Fair
Full fair schedule posted on the website by mid-June
Department 9 – Clothing & Activities
- All items must have either a “care” label sewn into a seam or a 3×5 card with care instructions included.
Department 11 – Needlecraft
- Items that will be worn or used and washed will need to have a care label securely fastened or a 3×5 card with care instructions. Care label should include fiber content and washing/drying instructions.
Department 12 – Spinning/Weaving
- Skeins should be tagged with information about the construction (E.g. made from roving, or hand-carded, or drum carded, or not carded).
- All weaving must be displayed with a weaving plan to include the following information:
- Title and dimensions of weaving
- Threads per inch
- Warp width and length calculations
- If loom operated pattern is used:
- Pattern name
- Threading/tie-up/treadling
- Scale colored drawing of weaving
- Comments (E.g. why you chose to weave this piece, problems you experienced in the weaving process, how you feel about the finished weaving and weaving in general, etc.)
- Sources: Teacher, books, videos, etc.
Department 13 – Baking & Foods
- A complete recipe must accompany each food entry. Recipe cards may be submitted in any format (index card, printed sheet, store‑bought recipe card, or printed recipe mounted on paper). The appearance of the card is not judged, but:
- All recipe cards must:
- Be securely attached to the exhibit in a place easily visible to judges.
- Be legible and written or printed clearly.
- Have the entry number on it in the case that the recipe gets separated from its entry.
- Include the following required information:
- Recipe title
- Full ingredient list with measurements
- Complete preparation instructions
- Oven temperature
- Baking/cooking time
- Pan size (if applicable)
- Classes I & J have special additional requirements
Department 14 – Food Preservation
- Exhibits must include a 3×5 card with the recipe and complete canning instruction.
Department 15 – Food & Nutritional Skills
- Recipe cards are required when applicable.
- Classes C requires: A 3″ × 5″ card describing: the occasion or purpose of the basket & the items included. Class D requires: A 3″ × 5″ card that provides: nutritional information & appropriate food preparation methods for the preserved items.
Department 16 – Table Decorating Arts
- Menus are required
Department 17 – Crafts and Applied Arts
- All fabric items must have a 3×5 card or care label included on the item with care instructions if it is an item that will be worn or washed.
Department 18 – LEGOs
- Class J requires a 3×5 card telling what the item is, why you decided to build this item, and what was learned.
Department 20 – Photography
- Write the following five items clearly on the back of your photo mat. If you do not include all five items your entry will lose 10 points. DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR NAME. If you include your name, you will lose 10 points.
- Brand and Model of camera
- Digital or 35 mm film camera
- Stop and exposure
- Commercial or self-printed
- Year in project
- Classes X, Y, and Z: A typed index card must be part of the mounted display, on the front of the exhibit mat, explaining what was done to arrive at the finished image.
Department 21 – Natural Science
- Astronomy
- A 3×5 card describing what the exhibitor learned is encouraged.
- Entomology
- All insect exhibits must be labeled to give the order and common name of insects in the collection and scientific name to as many as possible. All work, including labeling, should be that of the member.
- Environmental Stewardship
- Each exhibit must have a 3×5 card with it explaining the project for example:
- What the project is
- Why the topic was chosen
- What the exhibitor learned
- Any sources used
- Each exhibit must have a 3×5 card with it explaining the project for example:
Department 22 – Technological Science
- Class D is intended for entries of your own design. Attach a 3×5 card to entry telling what the item is, what you did, and what was learned.
- Class E & F: A 3×5 card telling what the item is, its use, what you did, and what was learned must be included.
- Class G: A 3×5 card telling what the item is and its use, must be included.
- Class H, I, and J: A 3×5 card telling what the item is and its use, must be included
Department 23 – Woodworking
- Exhibitors must attach a Maker Notes Card describing:
- What skills were used
- What cuts/measures the exhibitor performed
- Where adult help was required (safety only)
- What challenges were faced and solved
Department 24 – Horticulture
- Class V: Describe teamwork used on entry card or separate card.
Department 25 – Fleece and Fiber
- All entries must have a 3×5 card included which explains:
- Type of fiber/fleece
- Age & gender of animal
- Where & how the fiber was collected
- Extra details (i.e. did the youth help shear, was the animal placed in a coat prior to shearing, was the animal fed anything special for its fleece production)
Department 26 – Tanning
- Each entry must include a 3×5 card describing the animal, tanning method, and how the hide was obtained.
- Traditional or commercial tanning methods are acceptable but must be described on the 3×5 card.
Department 29 – Artificial Intelligence
- Participants must describe how AI was used in their project. Entries should include a brief explanation of the member’s creative process.
Animal Departments
- A 4-H regulation stall card identifies each animal and/or exhibit.
The San Juan County Fair and 4‑H utilize an online fair management system called FairEntry. It is created and run by the same company as 4‑H Online (the system you used when enrolling in 4‑H).To sign up for the Fair, you will log into FairEntry using the same username and password as 4‑H Online. If you have issues logging in, please contact Clinton for assistance.
Fair Entry registration is open June 1, 2026 – July 19, 2026 and can be accessed directly via Fair Entry. There are basic Fair Entry Guidelines hosted on the Extension Office’s website.
Before registering at the FairEntry link, it is helpful if you have your animals entered into 4‑H Online. This step is optional but recommended—if the animal will be shown for more than one year, adding it in advance allows FairEntry to import that information automatically. If your animal is only being shown this year, you may enter it directly in FairEntry.
It is highly recommended that all exhibitors enter an Educational Poster (Department 4). You may enter a poster for one, some, or all of your projects. Entering a poster ensures you complete the requirement of entering at least one exhibit for your 4‑H year. These posters also help educate the public and decorate the barns.
Still Life Entries Example
If your 8-10-year-old (Junior Division), wants to enter cookies, you will:
- Enroll them in the Foods Project (by June 1) on 4-H online,
- In FairEntry choose
- Department 13 → Class A → Lot 2 (Junior),
- Bring 4 cookies + the required recipe card on Still Life Entry Day to the Marie Boe 4-H Building
- Because you entered a still life exhibit, you must also enter the Judging Contest
- Department 28 → Class I → Lot 2 (Junior).
- It is also recommended to sign up for at least one Exhibitorship shift
- Department 6 → Class A → Lot 2 (Junior).
Animal Entries Example
If your 8-10-year-old, wants to enter their poultry project (a bantam Sebright hen & bantam eggs for auction), you will:
- Enroll them in the Poultry Project (by March 1) on 4-H online,
- In FairEntry enter:
- Department 31→ Class A (Showmanship) → Lot 2 (Junior)
- Department 31→ Class B (Herdsmanship) → Lot 2 (Junior),
- Department 31→ Class J (Clean-Legged Bantams) → Lot 2 (Single Hen),
- Department 31→ Class R (One Dozen Eggs for Auction) → Lot 3 (Bantam)
- Bring your hen and dozen eggs to the poultry tent on entry day (Wednesday of fair week by 2:00 p.m.)
- You must also sign up for poultry judging
- Department 28 → Class C → Lot 2 (Junior)
- Auction entries require additional paperwork, so please consult the auction rules to ensure compliance.
Entry Worksheet
4-H Fair Entry Worksheet 2026
Use this entry worksheet to keep track of what you’d like to enter – you can then transfer it to Fair Entry when you are ready. Submitting this form will email you a copy of your submission but it will not actually submit your entries.
