4-H Focus – April 2026
Club & Program News
Opportunities for 4-H clubs, activity highlights, and program updates
*Important Statement from 4-H Director – Measles Prevention for 4 H Staff, Volunteers & Families
“Dear 4‑H Staff, Volunteers and Families-
Since 4-H brings together youth, families, and community members—including young children and individuals who may be more vulnerable to illness—it’s important that we stay aware of current health risks and take steps to prevent the spread of measles. The Washington State Department of Health has shared updated information, and I want to pass along the key points.
Measles spreads extremely easily through the air and can linger for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a space. With confirmed cases in Washington, prevention helps us keep meetings, events, and activities safe for everyone who participates.
What to Know
Measles symptoms can include:
- High fever
- Cough, runny nose, red/watery eyes
- A rash that starts on the face and spreads downward
Anyone with these symptoms should avoid group activities—including 4‑H events—and contact a healthcare provider before visiting a clinic.
How to Protect Yourself and Others
- Confirm your MMR vaccination. The MMR vaccine is the best protection. Most cases occur in people who are unvaccinated. If you’re unsure of your status, your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help you check or get vaccinated.
- Stay home when sick. Even mild symptoms should be taken seriously.
- Practice good hygiene. Frequent handwashing and covering coughs/sneezes reduce spread of many illnesses.
- Be aware of exposure notices. The Department of Health posts locations where exposure may have occurred. Checking these updates can help you determine if you need to take additional precautions.
- If you think you’ve been exposed: Call your healthcare provider right away for guidance. They can assess immunity and advise on next steps.
Thank you for helping keep our 4‑H community healthy and safe. Please reach out if you have questions or need support communicating this information to your clubs or families.” – Kayla Wells-Yoakum, 4-H Director, WSU Extension
*New* 4-H Fair Form and Record Book Completion Deadline
Yakima County 4-H is moving our 4-H record book scoring to the end of the 4-H year in September in order to allow youth members to include their fair experiences and finalize their market sales before their record book is scored for 4-H year completion and Medal of Honor.
To assist with this change and maintain accountability, the Yakima County 4-H office requires that all 4-H youth members participating in livestock projects at Yakima County Fairs (including those from other counties) turn in a Yakima County 4-H Fair Form (linked and attached) at check-in to participate.
This form attests that the youth member has followed the animal ownership timeline, that they agree to follow the 4-H behavior expectations and that they will complete their record book and submit it to the Yakima County 4-H office for scoring in September as one of the requirements to complete their 4-H year. Yakima County 4-H Fair Forms will be collected at fair check-in and retained by the WSU Extension Office.
*Non-Yakima County 4-H participants are still required to submit The Yakima County Fair Form to participate and will attest that they agree to meet the 4-H requirements of their home county.
IMPORTANT:Fairs are independent organizations and are free to set their own requirements for record books in addition to those set by Yakima County 4-H.
At this time, Central Washington Junior Livestock Show and West Valley Fair will still require record books and scoring will be done by the fairs themselves. Yakima County 4-H youth participating in these fairs will turn in their record book at the fair, then update and complete it for scoring by the Extension Office in September for 4-H year completion.
We recognize that this is a big change, and we appreciate your patience and your assistance as we adapt our systems to better meet the needs of our youth members, volunteers and staff. Please reach out to me with any questions you may have and I will be happy to help.
Thank you for being a part of Yakima County 4-H. We’re glad you’re here!
4-H Member Cards being sent out this month
Congratulations, Club Leaders! You have just completed the Winter quarter of the 2025-2026 4-H Year! Youth members who’ve enrolled in 4-H Online during the months of January-March, will have membership cards printed and mailed to their primary clubs leaders by the end of the month. Other contents within this envelope will include your clubs roster, your club’s status of enrollment, current project and participation list. If you notice any cards missing or corrections that need to be made on these contents please email Yakima.4H@wsu.edu or call 509-574-1574.
2026 Fashion Revue Recap
This year’s Annual Fashion Revue was held on March 27th at 6:30 p.m. at the Fruitvale Grange. Congratulations to all the 4-H members who participated—we’re proud of your hard work and creativity!
A special thank-you to our sponsors and volunteers who made this event possible, including:
- Yakima County Leaders’ Council
- Yakima County 4-H Extension Staff
- Committee Chair & Commentator – Kattie Blanchard
- Fruitvale Grange
- Garment Judge – Cindy Keller
- Participating 4-H members, parents & volunteers
Yakima Symphony Orchestra Invites 4-H’ers to a Free Concert!
Our youth members have been invited to attend the Yakima Symphony Orchestra’s Student Concerts free of charge! 4-H youth members that are in grades 4-12 are welcome to attend.
“Dance Party” Friday, April 17th, 2026 at 9:45 am and a second performance at 11:15 am located at 19 S 3rd St, Yakima, WA 98901
To attend, please respond to this event by emailing the following information to Autumn at Autumn.Britt@wsu.edu no later than April 9th
- Total number of youth members AND their grade levels
- Total number of adults
- Which concert time you would like to attend (9:45 am or 11:45 am)
- Special Seating RequirementsDoes anyone in your party require accessible seating or assistive technology?If so, how many & what type? (ex. 1 wheelchair accessible seat required) Seating is first come first served.
I hope some of our 4-H members can take advantage of this awesome experience!
Upcoming County Contests & Events
Educational & Promotional Posters
Attention all 4-H Members! Promotional Posters are due to the Extension Office by Thursday, April 30th! This is a county wide 4-H contest. 4-H posters come in two categories: educational or promotional.
- Educational posters provide an opportunity for members to share information about 4-H and a wide range of projects. Unlimited pictures or words.
- Promotional posters are an opportunity for members to promote the 4-H program in a fun and positive way. One main idea, with minimum words of up to 6 words.
Find resources to make a great 4-H poster on our website!
County Public Presentations & Demonstrations
Ready to build confidence, share what you love, and shine as a 4-H member? This year, Yakima County 4-H is offering youth to complete their county-level public presentations during County Council meetings. Creating a supportive, low-stress environment to try something new. And here’s the best part: Blue ribbon recipients automatically qualify to present at the Washington State 4-H Fair in Puyallup!
Whether you love teaching others, demonstrating a skill, or speaking about something you’re passionate about, public presentations are a fantastic way to build confidence, communication skills, and leadership. Sign up below!
Upcoming Presentation Opportunities
- Monday, April 20th at 6:30 PM – Yakima County Resource Center Large Conference Room – 2403 S. 18th Street, Union Gap, WA
- Monday, July 27th at 6:30 PM – Yakima County Resource Center Large Conference Room – 2403 S. 18th Street, Union Gap, WA
For guidelines, tips, and inspiration, visit the Yakima County 4-H Public Presentation & Demonstration Guidelines webpage.
Lights, Camera… 4-H! Become a Yakima County 4-H Media Reporter
Are you a 4-H club reporter or historian? Do you love taking photos, designing graphics, writing about events, or sharing what makes your club awesome? Then this opportunity is for YOU!
Join the Yakima County 4-H Media Makers Virtual Workshop and learn how to become a 4-H Media Reporter — someone who helps tell the story of all the amazing things happening in 4-H! From capturing fun moments at events to sharing stories online, your voice can help inspire others in our community.
At this workshop, you’ll learn how to:
- Create fun and engaging social media posts
- Tell great stories through photos and media
- Build beginner graphic design skills
- Understand the key elements of a strong post
- Sign up to cover events as a designated 4-H reporter
Your photos, stories, and creativity could even be featured on the Yakima County 4-H Newsletter and social media pages!
Interested? Complete the pre-registration Google Form and let us know which dates in April work best for you.
Come learn how to create, share, and inspire through 4-H media!
Help us to Fundraise!
Shop & Support Yakima County 4-H
Did you know your everyday grocery shopping can help support local youth? 
When you link your Fred Meyer Shopper’s Card to Yakima County 4-H through the Fred Meyer Community Rewards program, a portion of what you spend goes directly back to our county 4-H programs — at no extra cost to you!
Here’s How to Enroll:
- Log in to your Fred Meyer account
- Go to “My Account”
- Scroll to Community Rewards
- Search for Yakima County 4-H (or enter our organization code VD792)
- Click Save — and you’re done!
It’s that easy — and every purchase helps make a difference for Yakima County 4-H members. Thank you for supporting local youth and helping 4-H grow strong in our community!
Volunteer Updates
Opportunities for volunteers, activity highlights and volunteer needs
Yakima 4-H Open Office Hours – Cancelled
*Due to lack of attendance this series will not be continued
The Yakima County 4-H Extension Office will no longer be hosting the Yakima 4-H Open Office Hours. For questions or concerns please contact Yakima.4H@wsu.edu or call 509-574-1574.
Yakima County Council Meeting – April 20th at 6:30 pm
All 4-H youth members, volunteers and families are invited to attend the Yakima County Council meetings. Your input is greatly needed to make decisions on up coming events. Please consider joining us on Monday, April 20th at 6:30 pm in the Yakima County Resource Center – Large Conference Room, Side A. Located at 2403 S. 18th Street, Union Gap, WA.
Volunteer Opportunities
Become a 4-H Volunteer
Want to make a difference in your community? Apply online today to become a 4-H volunteer! Youth and adults (18+) can get involved—whether it’s leading a club, teaching a skill, or supporting local programs. Share your passion, mentor youth, and build lasting connections.
Contact the WSU Yakima County Extension office at Yakima.4H@wsu.edu or by calling 509-574-1600 to get started—there’s a place for you in 4-H!
Upcoming Judge’s Training Opportunity
Are you interested in supporting youth and learning how 4-H fair judging works? Join us for the 4-H Still Entry Judges Training (Westside) on May 30th from 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM at the Puyallup Research Center, Allmendinger Room (2606 W Pioneer, Puyallup, WA 98371).
This introductory course will prepare you to become a registered WA 4-H judge in Photography, Posters, Presentations, Food Activities, or Textile Arts. It is open to current 4-H volunteers, parents, and anyone in the community interested in fair judging.
Judge’s Training Highlights
- 4-H judging principles (Danish system, working with youth, scorecards)
- Hands-on workshops in your chosen area
- Knowledge check and mock judging
- Networking with other judges and instructors
Fees and Support
- $25: Full day (become a registered judge, includes lunch)
- $10: Partial day / learning only (no lunch)
- Cost a barrier? Attend at no cost or pay what you can afford – no questions asked.
Register for the Judge’s Training today! After training you will receive an email with a link to pay via Square.
Call for Instructors – Textile Arts
We are looking for additional instructors for the Textile Arts track, especially in quilting, fiber arts, embroidery, and other fabric or fiber disciplines. We prefer to have people that have 4-H judging experience to be instructors. If you are interested, please reach out to Alyssa Bowers at alyssa.bowers1@wsu.edu.
Equine Judges Training – Save the Date!
Mark your calendars for the Washington State 4-H Equine Judges Training, from October 31st to November 1st, 2026, at the Evergreen State Equestrian Park in Monroe, Washington. Stay tuned for more information!
Looking for Small and Companion Animal Judges!
Are you a judge for a small or companion animal? The WSU 4-H small and companion animal committee is putting together a public resource to help animal barn superintendents across the state find judges. Please complete this survey if you are a judge for cat, dog, poultry, rabbit, cavy, and/or llama/alpaca. If you know a judge who may want to be included in this list, please forward this resource to them.
Once we have compiled a list, we will publish it on the WSU 4-H animal science page for the species. Thank you!
Volunteer Hour Tracking – GivePulse
Volunteers: YOUR TIME MATTERS TO US
Every hour you spend supporting 4-H is a donation. All certified 4-H volunteers are required to report hours; reporting protects and supports you and the local program! By reporting your hours you give Yakima County 4-H the numeric proof we need to show our funders and higher-officials that our programs are greatly valued and needed. In addition, reporting your hours makes you eligible for the Department of Labor and Industries medical aid program (this program allows an injured volunteer’s medical expense to be paid by the Dept. of Labor and Industries), and allows you protection under the state of Washington tort claims law, RCW 4.92.060, for acts or omissions while performing, or in good faith purporting to perform, your official volunteer duties. What qualifies as volunteer hours? Anything and everything you do for 4-H! Teaching, planning, prepping, shopping, helping at fair and other events, paperwork, training, driving, calling, mentoring, presenting, emailing, even reading this counts! Email Yakima.4h@wsu.edu or call 509-574-1600 if you need assistance.
How to Record an Impact on GivePulse
An impact in the GivePulse system refers to the time you spend working on behalf of Washington State 4-H Youth Development, or more simply your volunteer hours. Watch this video on how to create an impact (log your volunteer hours) in GivePulse.
- Log in to GivePulse
- Click “Add Impact” (a green button in the top right side of your group screen).
- Enter the date and time for your impact.
- Next; enter the number of hours for your impact (rounded to the nearest quarter of an hour: (Example: 1.0, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75 hours).
- Enter the type of activity from the pull-down menu. Select the activity type that best fits your impact (a description of each is provided).
- Rate your experience with the event and provide reflections/comments for the group to see.
- Personal notes are available only to you, enter notes you might want to remember.
- Attach any items you’d like (pictures, agendas, etc.)
- Click “Add Impact” (green button on the bottom left) to submit your hours.
Teen Opportunities
Events, conferences, and scholarships just for teens
Teen Opportunities Calendar
Blossom into Leadership at Teen Rally!
Teens are invited to a weekend rally at Panhandle Lake 4-H Camp in Shelton! This is an opportunity for teens to connect and learn more about leadership in a summer camp setting! A free “Facilitate the Awesome” training for adults is also being offered. More information can be found on the Teen Rally event website. Register online before the deadline on April 13th! Come learn, lead, and blossom into leadership this spring! Join us May 2nd–3rd at Panhandle Lake 4-H Camp for an overnight experience filled with leadership workshops, camp activities, and the chance to connect with teens from across the region.
Event Details:
- Date: May 2nd – May 3rd
- Cost: $50 per teen
- Open to youth grades 8-12
We’re also inviting adults (volunteers or community members) to participate in a leadership workshop focused on building stronger connections with teens—included with your teen’s registration!
Register through 4-HOnline. Come learn, lead, and blossom into leadership this spring!
Calling Future Film Makers!
We have some great opportunities for youth interested in the creation of anime, short, or feature films. We will be hosting another Teen Film Camp on Whidbey Island from August 4th-8th, where participants get immersed in writing, filming, and editing their own films. Our mentors are experienced film makers that will be available to answer any questions and guide participants through the creative process. The films made at camp will be shown on the big screen on the last day of camp as apart of the Youth Film Festival on August 8th. See below for more information!
Teen Film Camp
Teen Film Camp is an amazing opportunity for seniors in 4-H to get hands on experience with creating a short film. Participants will get to learn about a variety of aspects of film making from experienced film makers! Senior 4-H Members are invited to apply, but space is limited to 8 teens. Applications are being accepted until April 21st, and those that are selected will be notified by April 30th. Camp Dates are August 4th-8th, 2026 on Whidbey Island, Washington. For more information check out the Teen Film Camp website or email R-A Mazzola at r.mazzola@wsu.edu
Youth Film Festival
If you are a film maker under the age of 18, and have created an anime, short or feature film, we invite you to submit your completed project for possible showing at the 2026 Youth Film Festival. Selected film makers will be contacted by June 30th if their film has been chosen for the festival. The big event will be held from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm on August 8th, 2026 at the Clyde Theater in Langley, Washington. For more information check out the Youth Film Festival website, or email R-A Mazzola at r.mazzola@wsu.edu
Military Teen Adventure Camps
Washington State University (WSU) is hosting its sixth annual Military Teen Adventure Camp in the San Juan Islands this July, offering camp to teenagers (ages 13 to 18) of active duty, guard, reserve, and retired military personnel at very low cost. Campers can select between a traditional Camp Orkila experience—featuring hiking, kayaking, swimming, archery, ropes courses and BMX—or an overnight sea kayaking island-hopping adventure, with applications open until the sessions fill. For more information and to apply, visit the Military Teen Adventure Camp website.
Teen Leadership Zoom Series – April 12th at 4:00 pm
Hey 4-H Teens! Are you ready to step up your leadership game?
EVERY SECOND SUNDAY OF 2026 you are invited to participate in The Washington State 4-H Ambassadors Teen Leadership Zoom Series.
We will be exploring different topics and practicing different skills, including the ones selected and taught by you, that make good leaders.
Teen Leadership Zoom Series Dates:
- April 12th
- May 10th
- June 14th
It’s not too late to join! For more information contact cahnrs.4hteenleaders@wsu.edu
International Teen Program Opportunities
Applications Now Open for 4-H International Exchange Inbound Hosting Opportunities – Summer 2026
Are you interested in other cultures and ready to make a difference in a young person’s life? Hosting an international student through States’ 4-H is a rewarding way to promote global understanding and youth development.
We are looking for families willing to host International Exchange students from Japan and South Korea for three weeks from July 23rd to August 15th. These international youth ages 13-17 are placed with families around the state of Washington, and they will arrive and depart from Ellensburg.
All host families must speak English in the home and have youth between the ages of 9 and 17 to be paired with a host sibling. Interested host families must submit an application with States 4-H Exchange.
For more information or to see the list of visiting delegates, contact Carolyn Russo at carolyn.russo@wsu.edu.
Consider hosting an international exchange youth and show them the best Washington State has to offer! To learn more about our hosting opportunities, click on one of the programs below.
Scholarship Opportunities
Yakima County Cattlemen’s Association – Agricultural Scholarship Application
Yakima County Cattlemen’s Association is offering an agricultural scholarship. Completed application must be emailed to Yakimacountycattlemens@gmail.com by April 15th! Be sure to look over the Agricultural Scholarship Application Criteria (PDF) for information on the application requirements. For questions regarding the scholarship or application requirements please contact Gvanweerdhuizen@nvsd.org or call 360-224-2720.
Yakima Klickitat Farm Association Scholarship
The Yakima Klickitat Farm Association (YKFA) is pleased to offer three $1000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors or undergraduate college or trade school students who are pursuing higher education that is agriculture related. Applications are due April 15th, 2026. To have an application considered, students must submit the following:
- A cover letter describing why the applicant feels he or she is eligible and a good candidate for this YKFA funded scholarship. The letter should outline the applicant’s prospective major area of study as well as the university or vocational program where the applicant intends to attend.
- A current resume reflecting both school activities and honors; and, work experience.
- A minimum of three letters of reference that speak to the candidate’s scholastic achievements and/or work history.
Applicants whose family members are YKFA members will receive preferential consideration. Anyone with interest in joining YKFA can do so by going to YKFA.org to learn more. Scholarship applications should be sent to info@ykfa.org or mailed to YKFA Scholarship Committee, PO Box 429, Wapato, WA 98951. For questions, please contact Dave Barta at dbarta@gorge.net.
Maravell Gonsioroski Memorial Scholarship
In memory of a beloved 4-H volunteer, Maravell Gonsioroski, the Washington State Junior Horse Show and board members are offering a scholarship in her honor. This scholarship was created in recognition of the dedication Maravell Gonsioroski had for 4-H and for the many long hours she spent running the Washington State Junior Horse Show.
Application Deadline: Monday, June 1st, 2026
Amount of Scholarship: $1,000 (may be split between two applicants)
For more information on the scholarship criteria or to apply online, please visit the Yakima County 4-H Maravell Gonsiooski Memorial Scholarship webpage.
Hard copies of this application may be obtained by contacting the WSU Yakima County Extension Office at 509-574-1600 or by emailing Yakima.4H@wsu.edu.
Fair News
Important updates for families participating in our fairs
Fair Calendar
Central Washington Junior Livestock Show – Toppenish
Sheep Shearing at the Toppenish Fairgrounds
Get your sheep show-ready for the Central Washington Junior Livestock Show ! Local shearer David Funk is offering sheep shearing services for 4-H & FFA members—just in time to get your animals looking their best.
This will be taking place at the Toppenish Fairgrounds on Saturday, April 11th. Please call or text David at 509-570-2947 to schedule your timeslot!
Don’t wait—appointments fill up fast! Let’s get those sheep clean, cool, and ready to shine in the ring! 
Central Washington Junior Livestock Show Meeting – April 16th
Mark your calendars for the upcoming show meeting for the Central Washington Junior Livestock Show. This meeting is scheduled to be held in the livestock show office on April 16th, 2026 at 7:00 pm.
Please view the table below for other important dates to make note of.
Pre-Register for the 4-H Livestock Judging Contest at the Central Washington Junior Livestock Show – May 4th
Are you participating in the 4-H Livestock Judging Contest on Monday, May 4th? If so, please pre-register for this event by April 27th! We will still be accepting walk-up participants, however, by pre-registering will help us to ensure that there are enough judging cards for everyone.
CWJLS 4-H Livestock Judging Contest
2026 Calendar & Important Dates
Listed below are important dates and event details for those exhibiting at the 2026 Central Washington Junior Livestock Show. For more information on the show please refer to the Central Washington Junior Livestock Show website or Facebook page.
| Date | Event Details |
|---|---|
| Thursday, March 19th, 2026 (3/19/2026) | Show Meeting in the Show Office at 7:00 pm MANDATORY meeting for leaders and advisors |
| Tuesday, March 31st, 2026 (3/31/2026) | FINAL ENTRIES are due. Please see website for instructions. |
| Thursday, April 16th, 2026 (4/16/2026) | Show Meeting in the Show Office at 7:00 pm |
| Saturday, April 25th, 2026 (4/25/2026) | Clean Up Day – Show Ground 9:00 am 4-H, FFA and Parent Help Needed |
| Sunday, May 3rd, 2026 (5/3/2026) | Record Books Turn into office Window between 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Weigh-in Day. Swine – 8:00 am – 3:00 pm Steer – 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Lambs – 3:00 pm |
| Monday, May 4th – Wednesday, May 6th (5/4/2026 – 5/6/2026) | Classification, Fitting and Showing, and Sale Day |
| Thursday, May 7th, 2026 (5/7/2026) | After show clean-up day |
Yakima Valley Fair and Rodeo – Grandview
Registration is open!
NEW for 2026 is our Dairy Springer Market Class! At arrival at fair the Heifer must be pregnant a minimum of 160 days (preferably between 200 and 250 days) and have all the Dairy heifer vaccinations. (at 12 months: Bovishield Gold 5 +L5, Calvary 9, Deworming & Magnet. At pregnancy confirmation: Lepto 5) For those wishing to participate with the Springer Division, be advised that this will count as one of your two market animals. We are very excited for this new market class!
All market animals will require a picture of their Scrapie ID or 840 tags when you register. You will not be able to proceed with registration without it.
Important Dates:
- Steer and Dairy Springers – Registration closed March 20th and tag pick up was March 21st from 8:00 -10:00 am at the YVFR Grounds.
- Goats, sheep, and swine – Registration closes May 29th and tag pick up is May 30th from 8:00 – 11:00 am at the YVFR Grounds.
Please email registeryvfr@gmail.com with any registration issues or questions.
Be sure to check out the important announcements on the YVFR Exhibitors & Parents group page.
West Valley Fair – Wiley City
Save the Dates!
Get ready for another exciting year at the West Valley Fair! We’re thrilled to announce this year’s theme: “American Flair at the West Valley Fair”
Join us as we celebrate the heart of our community with incredible livestock exhibits, hardworking youth, handmade creations, and all the red, white, and blue spirit you can imagine. From the barns to the exhibitors, you’ll see dedication, pride, and true American tradition on display.
Mark your calendars, bring the whole family, and come support our amazing exhibitors as they showcase their talents and hard work.
- July 13th – Horse Show
- July 16th – 18th – Livestock Show & Sale
What’s new at West Valley Fair this year?!
- Record books will be due on Saturday, July 11th!
- Animals will NOT be accepted on Wednesday if your record book in not turned in prior to haul-in!
- Entries can be submitted through the Showman App!
For more information on this year’s updates, schedule of events, or 2026 premium book, please be sure to check out the West Valley Fair webpage.
Mandatory Leader Meeting – West Valley Fair
All leaders are required to attend an important meeting on Thursday, April 16th at 7:00 PM in the Blue Barn at the Fairgrounds.
This meeting is a valuable opportunity to:
- Share input and suggestions from last year’s fair
- Help shape improvements for this year
- Get important updates and information for the upcoming fair
Your voice matters, and we appreciate your involvement in making the West Valley Fair a success each year! Please mark your calendars—we look forward to seeing you there! For more information on when the West Valley Fair visit their website or Facebook page.
Washington State 4-H Fair – Puyallup
2026 State 4-H Fair Patch Contest
The 2026 State 4-H Fair Patch Contest is on now! The contest is open to all current Washington State 4-H members.
Designs must be received by May 15th. Visit the event page for details and instructions on how to apply. We can’t wait to see your creativity!
Livestock News
Deadlines, news, rules, and opportunities for members in animal agriculture projects
Livestock Events
Livestock Education Opportunities
Valley Wide Country Store 4-H & FFA Education Day
Education Days are officially BACK at a Valley Wide Country Store near you! We know how much heart and hard work you put into your projects, and we want to help you make this your best show season yet.
Join Valley Wide Country Store in Grandview Washington on Wednesday, April 8th from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm for an afternoon of hands-on learning where they’ll dive into nutrition essentials and expert showmanship tips.
But be sure to RSVP today to save your spot!
2026 Washington 4-H State Livestock Judging Contest
We want to bring these to your attention as there are changes in the Guidelines and Rules (PDF) as well as the National Team Travel (PDF) for senior teams. Please familiarize yourself with these changes. Contest registration will open on Wednesday, April 1st. Early registration will end on Friday, May 29th at 9:59 pm, with late registration closing on Friday, June 12th at 9:59 pm. There will be no registrations accepted after the close of late registration on Friday, June 12th. We will send out more detailed information about registration and payment, which will be handled through 4-H Online, when we open the registration portal on Wednesday, April 1st. We look forward to seeing you Saturday, June 27th!
Equine News
Updates and opportunities for horse project members
Equine Events
State Horse Contest Registration Deadlines
Deadlines to register for several state horse contests are fast approaching. Registration is hosted in 4-H Online and required for all members and coaches.
Visit the registration links below for each event. If you have questions or troubles with registering, please email kim.baker@wsu.edu.
- State 4-H Hippology Contest Registration Link: deadline April 3rd, Contest Date: May 2nd
- State 4-H Horse Bowl Contest Registration Link: deadline April 3rd, Contest Date: May 3rd
- State 4-H Equine Presentations Contest Registration Link: deadline: May 4th, Contest Date: May 16th
Introduction to Hippology for Juniors, Intermediates, and Senior 4-H Members that are not on a team and curious about what Hippology is to try it out! Registration is $10 per member and hosted in 4-H Online. Parents and volunteers are welcome to shadow for free.
- Introduction to Hippology Registration Link: The deadline to sign up is April 15th, 2026.
State 4-H Horse Medallion Donations Needed
Donations are needed to provide the medals for all the Equine classes plus the Groom Squad and Equine Presentations Contests. The total cost is estimated at $2,300. Please consider a donation so that our outstanding members may receive this special recognition! The amount of donations will determine if all levels of medals will be possible (Gold, Silver and Bronze). Names of all donors will be listed on posters in the barns and announced during the events. Contributions are welcome from County Programs, Clubs, individuals and businesses.
Please make checks payable to Snohomish County 4-H Horse Program (who have been acting as the banker since the origin of the medals in the 1980’s).
Mail to:
Pat Pehling
7310 83rd Ave SE
Snohomish, WA 98290
Any questions, please contact Pat Pehing at pehling@frontier.com
Equine Judges Training – Save the Date!
Mark your calendars for the Washington State 4-H Equine Judges Training, from October 31st to November 1st, 2026, at the Evergreen State Equestrian Park in Monroe, Washington. Stay tuned for more information!
Horse Judges List
The Washington State 4-H Horse Page has been updated, with a section about Judges Information. Anyone looking to hire a judge for a 4-H horse competition can find the current version of the WSU 4-H Horse Judges List. Those that are interesting in becoming a judge can also find out the latest information about the Steps to Become a 4-H Judge, and any news regarding upcoming judges trainings.
Bits & Buckles Schooling Show — Coming April 11th!
We’re looking forward to another exciting day in the arena at the 2026 Bits & Buckles Schooling Show, held at Bloom Pavilion in Ellensburg!
This event is a great opportunity for riders of all experience levels—whether they’re new to showing or preparing for the upcoming season. Participants can enjoy a supportive environment while competing in classes such as Showmanship, English, Western, Barrel Racing, Pole Bending, and Two-Barrel Flag.
Date: April 11th, 2026
Location: Bloom Pavilion, Ellensburg
Entry Information: Available through the Extension Office
Contact: Amy Alder | amy.alder@wsu.edu | 509-962-7507
Join us for a fun-filled day of learning, confidence-building, and horsemanship. We look forward to seeing our 4-H youth in the arena!
Equi-Fair Results & Highlights
A huge thank you to everyone who came out to support and participate in this year’s Equi-Fair!
We’re so grateful for our incredible 4-H Horse Council members and dedicated volunteers who make this event possible each year. Your hard work truly shines!
And a big congratulations to all the 4-H’ers for their effort, dedication, and accomplishments at the show — you should be proud! Listed below are the results for our youth divisions who participated. Keep up the good work everyone!
Fitting & Showing
| Placing | Contestant |
|---|---|
| 1st | Kenadie Snyder |
| 2nd | Kaidence Schmidt |
| 3rd | Jake Beaudry |
| 4th | Madison Morgan |
| 5th | Abby Jevne |
English Equitation
| Placing | Contestant |
|---|---|
| 1st | Madison Morgan |
| 2nd | Jake Beaudry |
| 3rd | Kaidence Schmidt |
| 4th | Abby Jevne |
Stock Seat Equitation
| Placing | Contestant |
|---|---|
| 1st | Jake Beaudry |
| 2nd | Kenadie Snyder |
| 3rd | Madison Morgan |
| 4th | Kaidence Schmidt |
| 5th | Abby Jevne |
Fitting & Showing
| Placing | Contestant |
|---|---|
| 1st | Addy Wagner |
| 2nd | Paisley Snyder |
English Equitation
| Placing | Contestant |
|---|---|
| 1st | Addy Wagner |
Stock Seat Equitation
| Placing | Contestant |
|---|---|
| 1st | Paisley Snyder |
| 2nd | Addy Wagner |
Fitting & Showing
| Placing | Contestant |
|---|---|
| 1st | Jenna Menning |
English Equitation
| Placing | Contestant |
|---|---|
| 1st | Jenna Menning |
Washington State Junior Horse Show
Save the Date!
Mark your calendars for the Washington State Junior Horse Show, happening June 26–28th, 2026 at the Grant County Fairgrounds in Moses Lake. This exciting show is open to all youth from across Washington State!
Highlights include:
- Horse Judging Contest (Saturday, June 27th) with four categories and a buckle for the high-point winner open to ALL livestock judging participants
- Premium payouts for flat classes
- Two pre-show clinics on Thursday, June 25th:
- Sue Sultze – Pattern Skills (English or Western)
- Jillian Santi – Dressage (Standard or Western)
Entry Deadlines:
- June 18th, 2026 – Postmarked by USPS
- June 20th, 2026 – Email entries accepted if check is postmarked
More details on the schedule, classes, and rules will be available on the official Washington State Junior Horse Show entry form (PDF). Enter early and plan to join the fun!
Washington State Junior Horse Show – Maravell Gonsioroski Memorial Scholarship
In memory of a beloved 4-H volunteer, Maravell Gonsioroski, the Washington State Junior Horse Show and board members are offering a scholarship in her honor. This scholarship was created in recognition of the dedication Maravell Gonsioroski had for 4-H and for the many long hours she spent running the Washington State Junior Horse Show.
Application Deadline: Monday, June 1st, 2026
Amount of Scholarship: $1,000 (may be split between two applicants)
For more information on the scholarship criteria or to apply online, please visit the Yakima County 4-H Maravell Gonsiooski Memorial Scholarship webpage.
Hard copies of this application may be obtained by contacting the WSU Yakima County Extension Office at 509-574-1600 or by emailing Yakima.4H@wsu.edu.
Kittitas County 4-H Invites Yakima 4-H Horse Members to Events!
Kittitas County 4-H has generously invited members from Yakima County 4-H to participate at some of their equine events!
Equine event schedule:
- April 6th – Horse Judging
- April 11th – Bits & Buckles Spring Show
- May 9th – Spring Leader’s Show
- June 27th – 28th – Training Days & 2nd Horse Judging (still working on details)
- July 17th – 19th – Horse Pre-Show (Bloom & Rodeo Arena)
- October 4th – Fall Leader’s Show (Bloom)
More formal information will come later but I wanted to get the dates out there.
If you have any questions, please contact the Kittitas County 4-H Program Manager, Amy Alder at amy.alder@wsu.edu or by calling 509-388-2588.
News You Can Use
Local events and opportunities through WSU Extension and our community partners
Other Upcoming Opportunities
Now Hiring in Skagit County!
Skagit County is hiring for a 4-H Coordinator. Skagit 4-H currently serves approximately 350 members enrolled in more than 20 active clubs led by 75 volunteers. In this exciting role, you will provide leadership in volunteer management, including training and supporting volunteers, and collaborating to implement volunteer‑led programs, events, and activities in accordance with WSU Extension policies and procedures. In this role, you are also responsible for recruiting new members and leading outreach and partnership efforts with other youth‑serving organizations. Visit the WSU Jobs listing for information and to apply.
The new Discover Box is here—and it’s FREE on CLOVER!
Dive into hands-on animal science. The new 4-H Discover Box: Critter Care 101 helps youth explore animal breeds, veterinary basics and how to care for all creatures—big and small.
Complete the Animal U: Careers activity on CLOVER to claim your FREE kit. Perfect for classrooms, clubs or at-home learning.
4-H Curriculum & Publications available for purchase at the Yakima WSU Extension office!
We have a library of 4-H curriculum available to our 4-H members and volunteers to help you on your projects! Everything from poultry to sheep & sport fishing to woodworking, to… Well, you get the idea! We are happy to find you the publication you need to take your projects to the next level! We have record books and record book cover in stock. Peruse our samples of 4-H curriculum before ordering!
Come by Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 12:00 pm or 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm at the Yakima WSU Extension Office, 2403 S. 18th Street, Suite 100, Union Gap, WA. 98903.
Master Gardeners Answer Clinic – NOW OPEN
WSU Yakima County Extension has a privilege of having Master Gardener volunteers within our office. They are an incredible informational resource with a passion for horticulture. If you have questions regarding a specific species of flowers or would like to have your soil PH tested, our Master gardener volunteers are happy to help! Please note that they are volunteers and offer their time to community when they are available. They tend to have office hours throughout the week on Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays from 9:00 am -12:00 pm & 1:00 pm- 4:00 pm. If you would prefer to reach them by phone, please call 509-574-1604 or come by the Yakima County Extension Office at 2403 S. 18th Street, Suite 100, Union Gap, WA. 98903.
The Art of Range Podcast
The Art of Range podcast provides education through conversation with some of the brightest minds in rangeland management and livestock production. Washington State University rangelands and livestock specialist Tip Hudson interviews researchers, ranchers, and resource professionals to bring you extended discussion on topics that are of interest to anyone in rangelands work. A new episode releases every two weeks. This project is funded by a grant from the Western Center for Risk Management Education. Tune in to an episode by going to the Art of Range website.
New! WSU Yakima Extension Office Facebook Page
Have you heard? The WSU Yakima County Extension Office is now on Facebook!
Our Extension team is proud to serve the community with a wide range of educational programs, including:
- 4-H and Youth Development
- Tree Fruit
- Farmer Suicide Prevention
- Animal and Agriculture
- Master Gardener Program
- Consumer Food Safety and Canning
Be sure to follow and like our new page to stay up-to-date on the latest news, resources, and program offerings. We’d also appreciate your help in spreading the word—share our page with friends and family so they know we’re now on Facebook!
4-H Resources & Important Links
Quick links, references, and other useful information for 4-H clubs and families
“WSU Yakima County Extension empowers our families, communities, and local partners through a network of educators and volunteers to provide research-based outreach and creative solutions to enhance agricultural productivity, environmental stewardship, and quality of life.”
Alison White – Regional Specialist
4-H Youth Development
alison.white@wsu.edu
Autumn Britt – 4-H Program Manager
4-H Youth Development
autumn.britt@wsu.edu
Katlyn Shockey – 4-H Program Specialist
4-H Youth Development
yakima.4h@wsu.edu
katlyn.shockey@co.yakima.wa.us