4-H Focus – March 2025
Newsletter Menu
Check out the Washington State 4-H Events Calendar!
Not seeing the event that you’re looking for? Be sure to check out our different program event calendars to help you plan ahead! For local events you may reference the Yakima County 4-H Event Calendar or find more statewide events by looking through the Washington State 4-H Events Calendar! Check it out anytime to stay connected with what’s happening across our program!
Club & Program News
Opportunities for 4-H clubs, activity highlights, and program updates
Youth Officer Training Recap
On Sunday, March 1, youth and volunteers from Yakima and Kittitas Counties gathered at the WSU Yakima County Extension Office for a hands-on 4-H Officer Training Workshop focused on building stronger clubs and confident youth leaders.
The workshop welcomed 4-H members ages 10 and up, along with supportive volunteers and adults, for an afternoon filled with learning, collaboration, and fun. Youth explored the different club officer roles and gained a better understanding of how each position helps keep meetings organized, engaging, and productive. Through activities, discussions, and group games, youth discovered creative ideas they can bring back to their clubs — from improving meeting structure to encouraging more member participation.
One of the key takeaways from the workshop was that strong youth leadership helps clubs thrive. By understanding their responsibilities and learning practical tools for leading meetings, these young leaders are now better prepared to support their fellow members and help their clubs grow.
We’re excited to see these 4-H officers put their new leadership skills into action and bring fresh energy back to their clubs! 🍀
Upcoming Community Service Events
Help “Fill the Truck” for Pets in Need!
The Naches Valley 4-H Club will be hosting their 2nd Annual Fill the Truck Pet Food Drive to support the Meals on Wheels for Pets program. While out grocery shopping this weekend, the community is encouraged to pick up a bag or can of pet food to help local seniors in the Meals on Wheels program continue feeding their beloved pets.
The Naches Valley 4-H Club will have a truck parked between the two stores collecting pet food donations on Saturday, March 7th from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm.. Every bag, box, or can helps support seniors and their furry companions. Stop by, say hello, and help fill the truck!
Yakima Co-op Free Chick Day – Volunteers needed! – Saturday, March 14th
The Yakima Valley Co-op is excited to host its annual Free Chick Day on Saturday, March 14th—and they’re looking for Yakima County 4-H youth and adult volunteers to help make the day a success!
Last year, 4-H volunteers helped distribute nearly 4,000 chicks, making this a fun, fast-paced, and rewarding event. Volunteers will assist with chick and feed distribution while gaining hands-on experience in an agriculture-related setting, learning about different chick species, and serving the local community.
Yakima Valley Co-op is a proud supporter of Yakima County 4-H, and this is a fantastic opportunity for clubs to get involved and give back. If this sounds like something your club would enjoy participating in, please contact Autumn Britt at Autumn.Britt@wsu.edu or 509-574-1578.
Upcoming County Contests & Events
2026 Fashion Revue
Clothing Project members are hard at work preparing for one of the most exciting events of the year—the Annual Fashion Revue! Official packets have been sent to Clothing Project leaders and to youth enrolled in sewing, crocheting, and knitting projects.
Important Dates:
- March 1st – Pre-registration by club leader
- March 13th – Youth registration deadline
- March 24th – Garment judging at the WSU Extension Office Large Conference Room (mandatory for participants)
- March 27th – Fashion Revue Show at the Fruitvale Grange
Love fashion but don’t sew? The Creative Consumer Division is a great option! Youth create an outfit to match a specific occasion—such as prom, sports, or the beach—without sewing. Visit our website for additional details and required forms. We can’t wait to see all the creativity on display!
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!
Join the fun with March Match-ness!
Each day of March Match-ness, join a new social challenge to help your Extension office compete for bonus funds — while every gift is matched dollar-for-dollar!
Day 1 (March 10): Clover Spirit Tip-Off
Wear green or your best 4-H gear and post a photo or short video using #4HMarchMatchness, tagging your Extension office so it counts. The office with the most total posts wins a $1,000 bonus.
Day 2 (March 11): Barnyard Bracket – Pet & Project Parade
Share a photo or video of your project animal or a 4-H skill using #4HMarchMatchness and tag your Extension office. Two offices will be randomly selected to each receive a $1,000 bonus.
Day 3 (March 12): Throwback Clover Classic
Post a favorite 4-H throwback photo with #4HMarchMatchness and tag your Extension office to help close out the match strong. Two offices will be randomly selected to receive $1,000 bonuses on the final day.
Catch the clover action
March Match-Ness is unfolding in real time. Check out the live social feed on the 4-H Facebook or 4-H Instagram pages to see 4-H’ers across the country showing their spirit. Want to be featured? Post your spirit and tag #4HMarchMatchNess.
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
Save the Date – Level 1: 4-H Shooting Sports
Are you currently a 4-H volunteer that would like to be certified in Archery, Shotgun, Rifle, or Pistol in your 4-H County club program, or to renew your certification? Volunteers need to be certified in a discipline to add these projects to their volunteer profile in 4-H Online.
Registration opens March 7th in 4-H Online “Shooting Sports Level 1 Training – Eatonville.
Our next 4-H Level 1 Shooting Sports training will be held:
- March 28th & 29th, Eatonville – in person dates
- March 27th – Classroom training on Zoom at 6 pm. Zoom information is listed in the 4-H Online event registration.
- March 28th – Archery only
- March 29th – Shotgun, Rifle, or Pistol
Hours are 8:00 am – 5:00 pm with a working lunch.
Cost: $60 for first discipline, $35 for a second discipline – a non-refundable deposit of $35 will be required at the time of sign up. Balance can be paid in 4-H Online or with cash or check on the day of training.
All registrations will be done on 4-H Online for Shooting Sports trainings going forward to make the process easier on our participants and staff.
Registration is open Saturday, March 7th and will run through March 23rd.
Register for the Shooting Sports Level 1 Training – Eatonville online or by going to 4-H Online then click on Events and select Shooting Sports Level 1 Training – Eatonville to complete your registration after March 9th.
This training will be held in Eatonville, WA. You will need to be a current volunteer and approved by your local 4-H county office staff in order to participate.
Note – New volunteers: Please do not sign up for the Shooting Sports project in 4-H Online until your training has been completed, otherwise your registration may be delayed; remove the project before finishing registration in the Eatonville training event. You can register as a volunteer in this training without a project listed.
Event information will be hosted on our WSU 4-H website here: Eatonville Shooting Sports Training
Questions? Contact us at 4h.shooting.sports@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
4-H Shooting Sports Youth Ambassadors Application open now, due April 1st
Teens selected as a National 4-H Shooting Sports Ambassador, may meet with donors who are CEOs of companies or organizations, and always need to put their best foot forward. Remember, there is never a second chance to make a good first impression. Ambassadors will be representing the 4-H Shooting Sports Program. This includes over 400,000 youth, 20,000+ instructors, Extension professionals, club leaders, and everyone that plays a part in the program. The way ambassadors dress, speak, and act is very important.
Applicants must be at least 14 years old and no more than 19 years old on or before January 1st, 2026, to apply. It is required that states send applicants that have at least 1 year of 4-H eligibility left as per their state requirements. Ambassadors receive training to go back to their state and become strong leaders and advocate for the program.
All lodging, meals, transportation during the event, and materials are provided through the National 4-H Shooting Sports Committee General Fund. The cost and arrangement of transportation to and from the event will be the responsibility of the participant and/or State 4-H Program.
For more information or to apply: Shooting Sports Youth Ambassadors Information and Application
Questions? Contact us at 4h.shooting.sports@wsu.edu
Teen Leadership Zoom Series – March 8th 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.
March 8th, April 12th, May 10th, June 14th
2nd Sundays of the month at 4:00 – 4:45 pm
It’s not too late to join! For more information contact cahnrs.4hteenleaders@wsu.edu
Graduating Teen Opportunities
Yakima County 4-H “Senior Sign Off” – Honor Cord Essay Application
Congratulations to all the Yakima County 4-H’ers who have reached their senior year of high school! We are so proud to celebrate the Class of 2026 and grateful to have you as part of Yakima County 4-H.
As you prepare for graduation, we invite you to share your 4-H journey through the “Senior Sign Off” – Honor Cord Essay Application. This is your opportunity to reflect on your experiences and be recognized for your hard work and dedication with official 4-H honor cords to wear at graduation.
Please complete the online application in its entirety by Sunday, March 15th to qualify for 4-H honor cords.
We look forward to celebrating you and all you’ve accomplished! 🎓
Scholarships Opportunities
WSU/4-H Scholarship Application Open Now!
The application for the WSU/4-H Scholarships is open now! Enrolled 12th-grade 4-Hers who have participated in 4-H for a minimum of two years are eligible to apply for one of seven different scholarships. Details about scholarships available and application requirements can be found on the 4-H Scholarship webpage. Applications are through 4-H Online.
Applications must be submitted in 4-H Online by 9:59 PM on Sunday, March 15th. Don’t wait! Get your application started today!!
Washington State 4-H Scholarships
There are at least 7 scholarships available through Washington State 4-H members. In order to apply applicants must:
- Be enrolled and approved as a 4-H member by Sunday, March 1st;
- Accumulated at least two years of 4-H affiliation; and
- Be a senior in high school attending an accredited two- or four-year college or university in the fall.
4-H Dairy Endowment Scholarship
The Washington State 4-H Dairy Endowment also offers two $500 scholarships. The Washington State Dairy Endowment Scholarship is due April 1st each year. The Dairy Endowment offers scholarships to present or former 4-H Dairy Project members – one for a high school senior and one for a current college student.
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.
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.
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 for information on the application requirements. For questions regarding the scholarship or application requirements please contact Gvanweerdhuizen@nvsd.org or call 360-224-2720.
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.
Pen Pal Program
Each spring, we facilitate a pen pal program between 4-H youth and our international partners in Costa Rica, South Korea, and Taiwan. Our Pen Pal program registration will open March 1st! Spaces are limited so please encourage any interested youth to apply ASAP!
Program Dates:
- March 1st: Registration opens for U.S. participants
- March 20th: Registration Deadline closes. Unless all spots are filled, as spots are limited due to the number of international participants available.
- April 1st – June 1st: Pen Pal program runs with weekly emails
Frequency: Participants will be expected to send one email/letter weekly for the duration of the program (approximately 10 emails/letters). States’ 4-H will provide weekly topics to help get the conversation going, but these are only suggestions.
Cost: $10 USD that must be paid online at the time of registration.
Eligibility: All participants must:
- Be between the ages of 9-18 at the start of the program
- Reside in one of our current partner states
Fair News
Important updates for families participating in our fairs
Fair Calendar
Central Washington Junior Livestock Show – Toppenish
ATTENTION LEADERS & ADVISORS ONLY!!
Online entries are up and running for the CWJLS show. Please go to the Central Washington Junior Livestock Show Website and click on Advisors and Leaders. All of the instructions are there on how to enter as a GROUP!
ENTRIES ARE DUE NO LATER THAN MARCH 31, 2026. PAYMENTS NEED TO BE PAID OR POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN APRIL 1, 2026. Each animal entry is $15.
Central Washington Junior Livestock Show Calendar & 2026 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 closes March 20th and tag pick up is 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
Mark your calendar for the next West Valley Fair Board meeting on Thursday, March 12th!
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
2026 UI/WSU Youth Livestock Field Days
Registration is now open for the 2026 WSU/UI Youth Livestock Field Days. The events are open to all youth, and the $10 registration fee includes lunch. Adults who attend the events must also register. Spaces are limited, and these events often fill up. Register today!
- Beef – Saturday, March 7th at the Nez Perce County Fairgrounds
- Swine – Saturday, March 14th at the Asotin County Fairgrounds
- Sheep & Goat – Saturday, March 21st at the University of Idaho
Tentative Schedule:
- 8:00 am – Registration Table Opens
- 8:45 am – Welcome
- 9:00 – 11:45 am – Morning Rotations
- Meat Science or Breeding 101
- Nutrition and Feeds
- Health
- Training and Showmanship *Adults and Youth will be seperated into different groups
- 11:45 – 12:15 pm – Lunch Provided (Vandal Dog, chips, cookie, drink)
- 12:15 – 1:30 pm – Afternoon Hands-on Stations
- 1:30 pm – Closing
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!
Junior Livestock Poultry Exposition – Save the Date!
All youth ages 5-18 in Washington State to participate in the upcoming Washington Junior Poultry Exposition, an APA Style Show taking place from April 17th through the 19th.
Event Highlights & Educational Opportunities:
- Premium Points: All participants will receive premium points for their entries. I have attached our comprehensive Premium Guide to this email for your reference.
- APA Style Judging: We have the showmanship judge and the poultry judge secured for our show.
- Judging Seminar: We will be hosting a specialized seminar on poultry judging, which is invaluable for members looking to deepen their technical knowledge of breed standards.
- Educational Posters: each participant is required to bring an educational poster to display.
- Fun Contests: Beyond the show ring, we have several fun contests planned to keep the weekend high-energy and engaging for all ages.
- Birdsmanship: Each participant will get to interact with the public, care for the poultry, and practice their public speaking skills in their one hour per day birdsmanship shift.
Entry forms are found in back of the WA Junior Poultry Competition Guide at the State Fair/Spring Fair website. The FairBook guide describes how to enter, including necessary forms. Entries are due March 27th. Please complete forms and return them via email to wajrpoultryexpo@hotmail.com.
Vet Check: Please remind your members that the mandatory Vet Check will take place on the morning of April 17th.
Tickets: Entry tickets will be issued to all participants following registration. We believe this show will be a highlight of the spring season for your 4-H members. It is a wonderful environment to practice showmanship and receive professional feedback in an APA-sanctioned format.
Questions? Contact the show organizers directly at: wajrpoultryexpo@hotmail.com.
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” document as well as the “National Team Travel” document 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
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.
2026 State Equine Contests
Register now for these upcoming Washington State 4-H Equine contests:
- Washington State 4-H Hippology Contest – May 2nd, Grant County Fairgrounds
- Washington State 4-H Horse Bowl Contest – May 3rd, Grant County Fairgrounds
- Washington State 4-H Equine Presentation Contest – May 16th, virtual on Zoom
New this year, an in-person “Introduction to Hippology” will be held simultaneously with the state contest. This is a fun, non-competitive introduction to Hippology. Come give it a try!
4-H Learning Opportunity – Extension Horses’ New Hipplogy/Horse Science Educational Course
We’re excited to introduce Extension Horses’ all new Hippology/Horse Science educational course! For just $40, you will gain access to an online course featuring four interactive lessons designed to build foundational knowledge in equine science through hands-on activities and multimedia content. You can even earn certificates for each lesson by passing the 10-question quizzes at the end of each lesson with an 80% or higher.
Lesson topics include:
- Internal Parasites
- Introduction to Horse Hoof Anatomy
- Parturition in Broodmares
- Evaluating Equine Conformation
Pricing for 6 months unlimited access is just $40!
This resource is ideal for youth preparing for Hippology contests or anyone interested in expanding their horse science knowledge—regardless of experience level. Learn at your own pace and strengthen your understanding of equine care and anatomy.
Enroll today and start learning all about horses!
If you’re looking for new ways to put your new knowledge to the test, be on the lookout for Extension Horses’ NEW Hippology Practice Contests – coming soon!
Equi-Fair Schooling Show
This years Equi-Fair & open schooling show will be held on Saturday, April 4th at the INDOOR Diamond U Arena – 250 Rushmore Rd, Selah WA.
Pre-Entry for 4-H Medal Classes must be pre-entered by Saturday, March 21st.
All other pre-entries are due Saturday, March 28th to Kimberly Lansing. Phone in entries must be made PRIOR TO SHOW by calling 509-539-0247 or by emailing ms.berly@yahoo.com with the subject line “EQUI-FAIR”.
For more information on the show, classes available and pricing please look over the Equi-Fair 4-H & Open Schooling Show (PDF) or by referencing the 2026 Equi-Fair 4-H and Open Schooling Show Facebook Page.
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 ____ or at 509-388-2588.
News You Can Use
Local events and opportunities through WSU Extension and our community partners
Other Upcoming Opportunities
4-H Discover Boxes
4-H Discover Boxes are a fun way to learn new things with hands-on learning.
“From the moment they learned how to pre-heat the oven, you could see their confidence grow. They learned how to carefully follow a recipe—step by step—and discovered just how important measurements are when working with dough.” Esther Boe, 4-H Regional Coordinator
Imagine your own classroom lighting up with excitement as students watch pretzels rise and realize they’re doing real science. Want to bring this kind of excitement to your program? The Discover Box: Science of Baking includes what you need to do so!
Complete the CLOVER interactive activity online and redeem your free kit!
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