janaie.godin@montana.edu
JUNE 2026 NEWSLETTER
ANNOUNCEMENTS                                             

🍀🎓Celebrating the Class of 2026🎓🍀

 

Whether they were with Gallatin County 4-H for 1 year or 10+ years, we appreciate their time and dedication to our program. We’re so proud of everything they've accomplished in 4-H - their leadership, growth, and commitment deserve to be celebrated!

 

We like to recognize our 4-H Graduates in a few different ways:

  1. Leading up to graduation via social media posts and in our monthly 4-H newsletter
  2. 4-H Honor Cords to wear at your graduation!
  3. Senior Boards displayed in the Indoor Exhibit Building during Fair Week (bring a poster to showcase you - you can use any senior boards you have made for school)
  4. Join us for the 4-H Senior Recognition Ceremony (w/ special gifts) on Saturday, July 18th at 2 pm (at the Fair) to honor your involvement and accomplishments
  5. Senior section of the Newspaper TAB - it’s the insert that goes out after the Fair that has fair results, and all the market livestock sale photos and info.
 

Congratulations, Class of 2026 Seniors — we’re so proud of you! 💚🍀

2026 Montana 4-H Foundation State-Level Scholarship Recipients

 

The Montana 4-H Foundation recently awarded scholarships to graduating 4-H seniors and alumni across the state of Montana. Out of 160 applicants, only 45 recipients were selected, and SIX were Gallatin County 4-H members! Congratulations to Nicole Berger, Keira Unrein, Teah Vennes, Samuel O'Hara, Wyt Oliver, and Elsa Austin (Class of 2025) on their achievements at the state level.

 

“These scholarships represent more than financial support - they are an investment in Montana’s future,” said Montana 4-H Foundation Board Chair Roni Baker. “The generosity of donors throughout Montana and the nation makes it possible for us to continue supporting young people as they pursue higher education.”

 

Thank you Montana 4-H for investing in the futures of our 4-H youth!
2026 Gallatin 4-H Foundation County-Level Scholarship Recipients
 
Congratulations to these EIGHT OUTSTANDING 4-H seniors that were selected to receive our local Gallatin 4-H Foundation higher education scholarships this year. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors! The Gallatin County 4-H Foundation has worked to expand their scholarship offerings and were able to offer multiple scholarships, at higher amounts, for various continuing education tracks.
 
With  28 graduating Gallatin 4-H seniors in 2026, the applicant pool was quite competitive. Based on applicants, scores and funds available, the Foundation Committee was able to fund (2) $2000 Doney (Ag majors only) Scholarships, (2) $2000 Market Livestock Scholarships, (3) $2000 Foundation (Traditional Track) Scholarships and (1) $1000 Foundation (Non-Traditional Track) Scholarship. 
UPDATES: Fair Dress Code
 
We are tightening up our dress code expectations for livestock shows and specifically the Market Sale. Please review the updated standards now to allow time to purchase appropriate attire if needed.
 
2026 EXHIBITOR DRESS CODES:
  • Showmanship Classes: White, collared, long sleeve, button-down shirt. No short sleeves allowed in Showmanship. Shirt needs to be tucked in. Black or dark blue jeans for 4-H members. White pants instead for Dairy Species. Official FFA dress for FFA members. Boots for large livestock showmen. Clean tennis shoes are acceptable in sheep, goat, rabbit, and poultry divisions.
  • Market and Breeding Classes: Either official 4-H dress code (White, collared, long or short sleeve, button-down shirt and dark pants) or collared, long or short sleeve, button-down western shirt with black or dark jeans. Official FFA dress for FFA members. Boots for large livestock showmen. Clean tennis shoes are acceptable in sheep, goat, rabbit, and poultry divisions.
  • Market Sale: Either official 4-H dress code (White, collared, long or short sleeve, button-down shirt) and dark pants) or collared, long or short sleeve, button-down western shirt with black or dark jeans. Official FFA dress for FFA members. Boots for large livestock showmen. Clean tennis shoes are acceptable in sheep, goat, rabbit, and poultry divisions. Western hats allowed, ball caps not acceptable.
  • Round Robin Master Showmanship Competition: ALL exhibitors, regardless of what species they are representing in Round Robin, will be expected to wear a white, collared, long sleeve, button-up shirt. Shirt needs to be tucked in. Black or dark blue jeans for 4-H members. Official FFA dress for FFA members. For safety, boots are required for all participants.
UPDATES: Round Robin Master Showmanship Competition
In 2026, we are tightening up our expectations for competition conduct and exhibitor attire.
 
The Round Robin Master Showmanship Competition is a high-level event designed to challenge the top youth exhibitors and determine the Champion Showmen. Participants must demonstrate strong showmanship skills, professionalism, and the ability to confidently handle and present multiple species. 
 
Round Robin Qualification:
  1. The Junior and Senior Grand Champion and Reserve Champion Showman from each species (Market Beef, Meat Goat, Dairy Goat, Sheep, Dairy Cow, Swine, Rabbit, Poultry, Horse, and Dog) qualify for Round Robin. Novice Champions do not qualify for Round Robin.
    • Dog exhibitors: only the Grand Junior and Grand Senior from Obedience and Agility advance to Round Robin.
  2. These Grand and Reserve Champions represent the four contestants from each species. The 3rd, 4th, and 5th place showmen will serve as alternates if needed.
  3. If an exhibitor wins in multiple species, they may choose which species to represent in Round Robin.
  4. Contestants must agree to show all species included in the competition. If a participant declines, they must forfeit their Round Robin position and the next qualifying exhibitor will be selected.
Round Robin Competition Format:
  1. Large and small animal species will be combined into one Round Robin event.
  2. Contestants will rotate through nine (9) species stations, but will not show or be scored on the species in which they are representing.
  3. Species committees will determine the animals used. Animals may be replaced if they pose a safety concern, with approval from the species committee, 4-H Agent, or FFA advisor.
  4. Each rotation will last approximately 8 minutes.
Round Robin Competition Conduct:
  1. The Round Robin is intended to be a serious, high-standard competition to determine the Champion Master Showmen. Participants are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism and integrity throughout the event.
  2. No phones, notes, or reference materials are allowed in the possession of competitors during the competition.
  3. Each group of competitors will be assigned an escort/chaperone who will remain with the group and rotate through all species stations alongside the exhibitors. Chaperones are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the competition, ensuring rules are followed, and assisting with the flow and timing of rotations. Competitors are expected to remain with their assigned group and escort for the duration of the Round Robin competition.
  4. Parents, family members, and spectators are not permitted to communicate with competitors during the duration of the rotations.
  5. **If a parent, family member, or spectator is observed speaking with a competitor during the competition, the coordinator will assume assistance, coaching, or answers are being provided. The exhibitor will be disqualified from the Round Robin competition.
Round Robin Attire *Change in 2026: All exhibitors, regardless of what species they are representing in Round Robin, will be expected to wear a white, collared, long sleeve, button-up shirt. Shirt needs to be tucked in. Black or dark blue jeans for 4-H members. Official FFA dress for FFA members. For safety, boots are required for all participants.
STAY TUNED: 2026 Fair 4-H Concessions
 
Due to continued kitchen structural issues impacting our 4-H Concessions Café at the Fairgrounds for the second year in a row, we are hoping to pivot our concessions plans to a modified format this year. The concessions kitchen is not operational; it has been gutted of all food preparation equipment and water has been disconnected from the kitchen.
 
If we are able to identify a Concessions Manager for a 4-H Ice Cream Stand, we will then send out a SignUp Genius to solicit both youth and adult helpers for shifts throughout Fair week.
 
At minimum in 2026, there will be food truck vendors set up near the livestock area that will be available to 4-H/FFA families during show days – please plan accordingly and support the generous vendors who are opening early to support our families during shows.
 
Piece of Crepe food truck will be open starting at 9am on Monday and 8am Tuesday through Saturday for breakfast. Also, Huckin’ Smoothies food truck will serve coffee and will be open at 8am on Tuesday through Saturday.

4-H Seeking Community Members to be Project Interview Judges

Gallatin County 4-H is seeking Judges to conduct interviews with 4-H youth exhibiting at the 2026 Big Sky Country State Fair. Judges will evaluate the 4-H members’ interview skills as well as their knowledge of their project.
 
This is a great chance for the youth to share their knowledge, practice interviewing, reflect on their experiences, and present themselves and their accomplishments to a caring adult. We would like the judges to have some subject knowledge of the projects that they will be judging. We will have a short judge’s orientation before each shift to go over the judging rubrics and what to look for when conducting the interviews.
 
We are in need of interview judges on for livestock/small animal and horse projects on Thursday, July 9th and Friday, July 10th. Additionally, we are looking for judges for 4-H Indoor exhibits on Sunday, July 12th. Judges will review and score project exhibits and evaluate their interview skills during this time. 
 
If interested, please fill out the Google Form: https://forms.gle/ye8oTYrFBgGBrFnW6 by June 26th indicating what time and project area(s) you would be comfortable judging.  
 
Gallatin County 4-H thanks you for donating your time to make an impact on the youth members in our 4-H program. To show our appreciation, we will provide you with an admission ticket to the fair that can be used on any day from July 15th through July 19th.
 
If you have any questions, please contact Molly Yurdana at molly.yurdana@montana.edu.

Host a 4-H Exchange Student

 

The MT 4-H International Exchange Programs (MT4HIEP) summer inbound (IB) program is in need of 20-25 host families from July 22 to August 16, 2026. There are 18 youth delegates (9 girls, 9 boys), ages 12-16, and two adult chaperones. Brief bios of the IB delegates can be sent upon request.

 

**As of now, only one MT family has submitted an application to host.

 

These delegates are here for a homestay to experience American culture and family life. Special trips and tours are not required to host a delegate. These young people are here to be members of your family for a month, not tourists.

 

Is your child going to camp this summer? Send your delegate too! Camp fees are covered by 4-H and the international partner organization. Take them to the grocery store, let them do chores like feeding the animals, take them to 4-H meetings and the Fair! Treat this young person as you would treat your own child.

 

The main requirements are that the delegate must have a host sibling of the same gender within four years of their age, their own bed, three meals a day, and adult supervision. Applications are available online through our national program, States' 4-H International Exchange Programs (S4H), and will be accepted until all students are placed. https://states4h.org/host-a-student/summer/

 

Host family selection is subject to the completion of the online application, an in-home interview, a background check for all adults, and delegate availability. The host family application process takes time to complete, and time is quickly running out.

 

On a final note, host family recruitment is not just open to 4-H families; anyone can apply to host one of the delegates.  And don't forget, two adult chaperones also need a host family placement.

 

For more information, contact Dave Brink at david.brink@montana.edu   or 406.203.6675.  I look forward to hearing from you soon and starting your once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Get Your Gallatin County 4-H Merch!

 

We are excited to offer Gallatin County 4-H merchandise available for purchase! A huge THANK YOU to BoomTown Designs in Belgrade for working with us to set up an ONLINE store again this year.

 

We are offering Gallatin County 4-H logoed gear in a variety of sizes (youth and adult) AND colors (be sure to click the product image to see the different color options)!

  • T-Shirts, hoodies, quarter-zips, and crewnecks (*new this year)
    • We added a “Rooted in 4-H” logo design this year, and back by popular demand, the "THIS is 4-H Country" shirts will be offered again in case you missed out last year!
  • Hats and beanies
  • Engraved water bottles and travel coffee mugs (could be great for future buyers’ gifts)

 

The webstore does not ship orders – our office will be doing weekly or bi-weekly order pick-ups from the BoomTown shop and our office will email you when your order has arrived and you will pick up your items at our 4-H Office (903 N. Black Ave., Bozeman).

 

SHOP NOW: https://boomtown-designs.printavo.com/merch/4-h-fall-merch-store

RECAP: Junior Rec Lab

 

Gallatin County 4-H hosted our first-ever Junior Rec Lab on May 2nd, organized by our Teen Leaders & Ambassadors! We welcomed 60 youth ages 8–12 for an afternoon of hands-on learning, exploration, and fun!

 

So, what is Junior Rec Lab? “Rec Lab” stands for Recreation Lab - a 4-H experience designed to be interactive, engaging, and youth-driven. While Montana 4-H offers a statewide Rec Lab for teens ages 13+, we wanted to intentionally create an event to give younger members an age-appropriate introduction to that experience. Junior Rec Lab was formatted as a half-day event to replicate the feel of larger 4-H events, helping youth gain confidence navigating workshops, meeting peers, and learning from a variety of instructors.

 

Throughout the afternoon, participants selected and attended four different workshops, choosing from 18 unique sessions led by volunteers and community partners. Workshops were designed to “spark” curiosity and give youth the opportunity to try something new! The goal: to help youth build leadership, communication, and teamwork skills while exploring new interests in a supportive, high-energy environment.

 

Workshop topics included:

  • STEM-based learning like chemical reactions, electricity, brain science, and soil science
  • Agricultural and environmental topics such as plant identification and anatomy
  • Hands-on life skills like bike maintenance, goat milk soap and tallow lotion making
  • Creative expression through scrapbooking, floral design, and cookie decorating
  • Personal development activities including team-building, improv, dance, and self-defense

Huge thank you to all our workshop presenters and to those who joined us - Junior Rec Lab successfully introduced a new way for younger 4-H members to engage in hands-on learning and we’re excited to continue growing this opportunity in the future!

 

Facebook Post: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CguSiSzEF/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Google Photo Album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/N4jfmoLbELgV22hGA 

Thank YOU for  GIVING BIG to Gallatin County 4-H Foundation!

 

We are so grateful for the generous supporters who gave to our Gallatin 4-H Foundation during the 2026 Give Big event. Each gift made during this campaign will allow us to further our mission of creating new projects and clubs, funding a variety of higher education scholarships, and purchasing essential supplies and equipment for our local Gallatin County 4-H youth.

 

We were able to raise $1,365 this year!

 

Thank you to all the shared, engaged or donated during the 2026 Gallatin Valley Give Big event!
DID YOU KNOW...Gallatin 4-H gives out monetary scholarships to reward involvement in our program?!
 

“Outstanding 4-H Members of the Year” – Achievement Journals

 

Each year, the Gallatin County 4-H Foundation awards scholarships to our “Outstanding 4-H Members of the Year” through the Achievement Journal process.

 

This is a great opportunity for 4-H members to be recognized and rewarded for their hard work, dedication, and involvement in our program.

The best part? Youth of ANY AGE (8+) are eligible to apply!

 

Winners are selected using a points-based scoring system that highlights involvement, leadership, participation, and achievement throughout the year. The winners (top 3 Junior members and top 3 Senior members) will receive 

MONETARY SCHOLARSHIPS! 🎉🍀

 

Award amounts and the number of scholarships vary each year based on qualified applicants and available funds, and recipients are recognized at our annual 4-H Awards Celebration. These awards are generously sponsored by the Harris and Elizabeth Kirk Trust.

 

Members must complete the Achievement Journal (GallatinCountyAchievementJournalrev2025-2026.pdf) for the current 4-H year to the best of their ability and submit it to our office by:
Friday, September 4th by 5:00 PM

 

Pro Tip: Start filling out the Achievement Journal as you are preparing your Record Books for submission. The Achievement Journal asks for a lot of the same information, activities, dates, etc. 

 

Hard work pays off....literally!
UPCOMING ACTIVITIES                                         back to top 

2026 4-H/FFA Exhibitor Fair Registration is OPEN

 

Find all Fair Information here: https://www.montana.edu/extension/gallatin/4hfair.html  

 

Read and follow the 2026AreYouReadyForFairChecklist.pdf 
to stay on track over the coming months. 
 

Participation in the Fair is optional. However, if a member chooses to exhibit and/or sell at the Fair, several requirements must be completed, including:

  • Register for Fair by the established deadline (by June 17, 2026 by 5pm)
  • Submit required Record Books and project materials (by June 24, 2026 by 5pm)
  • Complete Project Interview(s) (when and where we have scheduled)
    • Animal Interviews = July 9 & 10 (between 4pm-8pm both days)
    • Indoor Interviews & Exhibit Evaluation = July 12 (between 12pm-5pm)
  • Comply with all project-specific Fair requirements (as described in detail in the 2026 4-H/FFA Exhibitor Fairbook (4-H/FFA Exhibitor Fairbook) 
 
Register for Fair Here: https://gallatin4h.fairwire.com/
 
The deadline to register for Fair is June 17, 2026 BY 5pm *NO EXCEPTIONS 
  • Click the red “Sign In” button, then select either Exhibitor (for one kid) or Quick Group (for families with multiple youth) from the drop-down menu. **Everyone will start fresh and select “I am a new exhibitor (or group) or have yet to register this year” upon first sign-in
  • Exhibitor registration fees must be paid by June 24 by 5pm (via card online through ShoWorks or we accept card/cash/check at the Extension Office)
2026 4-H/FFA Fair Schedules 
 
Wondering when your livestock shows will be? When your indoor exhibits will be judged? What time to check-in and check-out? What about interviews? 
 
CHECK OUT THE 2026 FAIR SCHEDULES FOR ALL THAT INFORMATION! 
 
The 2026 4-H/FFA Fair Schedules have been published to our Fair webpage here: https://www.montana.edu/extension/gallatin/4hfair.html
 
4-H/FFA families with reserved RV camping spots will be permitted to move onto the Fairgrounds beginning on Saturday, July 11th. All RVs must be in place by no later than Monday, July 13th at 6pm. RVs will be allowed to leave the grounds at any time starting Sunday, July 19th with attention to livestock transport trailers and load-out schedules.  
 
REMINDER: Sunday Schedule
The 4-H/FFA Livestock Areas are closed to the public on the last Sunday (07/19) of the Big Sky Country State Fair. Trucks, semis and trailers will be moving through the livestock areas throughout the day, so to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the general public, exhibitors, and animals, the areas will be closed off from the rest of the Fair.
 
For mutual benefit of the Fairgrounds and 4-H/FFA exhibitors, Sunday will remain a processor load-out and barn clean-up day. 4-H/FFA market animals that are sold through the Market Livestock Sale are terminal projects intended for meat consumption. At the request of the meat processors, animals are to be transported to their final destinations beginning Sunday morning. All other 4-H/FFA animals will be released from Fair intermittently throughout Sunday at the discretion of each species.
 
Exhibitors are still required to be at the Fairgrounds for this day, as they are expected to care for their animals until release, help clean barns and assist species committees.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS: 2026 All-Species Workshops

 

We’re excited to offer TWO engaging All-Species Workshops this summer to help 4-H and FFA youth build skills that translate across any animal project!

 

Kick things off with our first-ever Round Robin Bootcamp on Sunday, June 7 (1:00–5:00 PM) at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds Indoor Arena. This hands-on session is perfect for exhibitors looking to strengthen their showmanship skills, gain confidence, and prepare for Round Robin competition. Participants will practice animal handling techniques, review judging expectations, and get ready to tackle showmanship questions.

 

Then, join us for our annual Marketing Workshop on Tuesday, June 16 (6:30–8:30 PM) at Exhibit Building #4. Youth and families will learn how to effectively promote their animal projects to buyers, understand the ins and outs of the Market Livestock Auction, and gain valuable insight into sale day logistics. This session is especially recommended for new 4-H/FFA families!

 

All-Species Workshop RSVP: 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084DA9A92AABFE3-63059393-2026

 

All-Species workshops are not required, but we highly encourage any 4-H & FFA members in any animal project to attend to help you prepare for Fair - especially if you’re new to 4-H or need an additional workshop to meet your species requirement this year.


Please note: All 4-H members must attend the required number of workshops for the species they are exhibiting in order to show at Fair. One All-Species Workshop may only count toward one species’ workshop requirement.

 

 

Beef

Sheep

Swine

Rabbit

Goat

Poultry

Minimum Workshops Required per year

3

4

3

4

4

3

 

Don’t miss these valuable, hands-on learning opportunities designed to set you up for success at fair and beyond!

SPLASHING Into Summer Fun!

With our unfortunate lack of snow this year, we had to cancel our Junior Member Sledding Day & Winter Olympic Games - but we’re not letting our younger members miss out on the fun.

 

Instead, we’re trading snow boots for swimsuits and heading to the splash park for a Junior Member Splash Park Fun Day!

 

Who can attend??  ANY Junior 4-H Members (ages 5-12 only) - any Club, any project! This event will be sponsored by the Dag Nabids 4-H Club

 

Date: Friday, June 12

Time: 1:30pm - 3:00pm

Location: Story Mill Park (Davis Pavilion - East of Lalani Pavilion, by the playground)

 

Join us for an afternoon full of:

  • Water fun & games at the Story Mill Splash Park
  • Volleyball
  • Summer treats
  • Time with fellow 4-H friends

We’re excited to give our Junior Members a chance to connect, play, and celebrate summer together after our winter plans quite literally melted away!

 

RSVP here: Gallatin County 4-H: Junior Member Splash Park Fun Day 

Record Book Evaluations

 

 ALL 4-H Members participating in fair are required to turn in all Animal and Indoor project records and project workbooks to the 4-H Office

no later than WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24, 2026, by 5:00pm.

 

Record books are required to be up-to-date and include:

  • My 4-H Year (one per member, per year)
    • The “My 4-H Year” document does not necessarily need to be turned in by June 24th if your Club Leader plans to review/sign it at a later date (check with them). Members-At-Large (not in a Club) will need parent signature in place of a Club Leader.
  • Project Records: Animal or Non- Animal Project Journal & Financial Record packet (one per project, per member)
  • Project Manual/Curriculum/Workbook(s) for each project with SEVEN (7) completed activities for this year (ask your leaders for what these activities should be as they vary from project to project)
    • Project Records must be turned in by June 24th to be reviewed, scored and then signed off on by Project Leaders based on completeness, content and project standards utilizing a record book rubric.
 

Record Book Organization:

  • Records must be separated by project area when turned in –in separate folders or binders labeled with the 4-H member’s name. Please refrain from turning in loose papers that are only paperclipped together, as papers can easily become separated or lost.
    • FAQ: Since there is only one “My 4-H Year” per member per year, which Record Book should I include it with? You may include your “My 4-H Year” with any one of your project records.
  • **This year, signatures for the “My 4-H Year” form and Animal or Non-Animal Project Journal & Financial Records will be verified upon Project Interview check-in. Members must have completed and appropriately signed forms at check-in in order to meet eligibility requirements for Fair and project nominations.

Record Book/Project Interview Scoring Process 
  • Want to know exactly what you’re being scored on? Check out the Record Book scoring rubrics (livestock, horse, dog/cat, or indoor), interview rubric (general) and project-specific exhibit rubrics (indoor only) linked on our website under “Requirements to Enter Fair” here: https://www.montana.edu/extension/gallatin/4hfair.html
  • Record Books: Upon turn-in of your Record Books, Project & Club leaders will sign, review and score your records based on completeness, content and project standards utilizing a record book rubric. This will be your Record Book score. 
  • Interviews: During the Project Interviews prior to Fair, a judge will evaluate members on their interview skills (eye contact, confidence, attire, ability to answer questions), their 4-H Year experience and project knowledge utilizing an interview rubric. This will be your Project Interview score. 
  • Composite Score: The Record Book score (max points = 82) and the Project Interview score (max points = 48) will be totaled together for a Composite Score (max points = 130).
    • Members with a Composite Score of 110 points (85% or higher) will get nominated to be considered for an end-of-year Project Award. Those nominated will be asked to re-turn in their completed Record Books in September for final review. Project Awards are presented at the end-of-year Awards Banquet.
Fair Project Interviews & Exhibit Judging
 
ALL Gallatin County 4-H Members must participate in interview evaluation(s) for their Project(s) in order to enter exhibits in that project area at Fair. 
 
Livestock, Horse & Small Animal Project Interviews
  • Thursday, July 9 & Friday, July 10, 2026 4:00pm-8:00pm each day in Exhibit Building #4 at the Fairgrounds
    • Note: Dog & Cat Project members will also interview on these dates. If you are entering a Dog Educational Poster, please bring it to this interview. 
    • *If you are in more than 2 livestock projects (ex. swine and dairy cow) please sign up for TWO consecutive interview slots. 
Indoor Project Interviews
  • SUNDAY, July 12, 2026 between 12pm – 5pm in Exhibit Building #4 at the Fairgrounds
    • Bring your project exhibit(s) as it will be evaluated during your interview with a judge.
    • If you are entering projects in different divisions, you will need to complete an interview in each project division (Example: entries in Cooking, Photography and Crochet = 3 interviews)
 
Indoor Project Exhibit Tags:
  • All 4-H/FFA Indoor Project Exhibitors must pick-up their Exhibit Tags (little identification tag that tells us who's exhibit it is and what division it is entered in) PRIOR to their interviews/exhibit judging.
  • Exhibit Tags must be picked up from the 4-H Office between July 6-July 10 (you’ll already be picking up your scored record books from the office during this time).
  • Exhibit tags must be securely attached to the appropriate exhibit upon arrival to your Interview on Sunday, July 12
  • There will be NO add-on or write-in exhibits added on interview day - so plan ahead and enter everything you plan to exhibit by the Fair registration deadline
Indoor Project Exhibit Pick-Up will take place on Sunday, July 19th after 6pm or Monday and/or July 20th between 10am-12pm at Exhibit Building #3.
  • Indoor entries are not to be removed from the Gallatin Fairgrounds until the end of fair. **NOTE: If items are removed early, premiums may be forfeited.

2026 Gallatin 4-H Summer Camp - Registration NOW OPEN!

 

ALOHA 4-H Members ages 8-13! 🌴🌺 ☀️🐚

 

Summertime is adventure time, and our annual Gallatin County 4-H Summer Camp is on the horizon! Join us for the 2026 “Trip to Paradise” 4-H Summer Camp where youth campers will dive into a tropical island experience packed with exciting, hands-on learning and nonstop fun.

 

Campers will set off on an island adventure filled with survivor-style challenges, themed workshops, outdoor recreation, and team-building activities. Along the way, they’ll explore the 4 H’s of 4-H - Head, Heart, Hands, and Health - gaining skills to help them thrive on the “island of life.” Our incredible 4-H Teen Camp Counselors have created an amazing experience, including zip-lining, a giant slip n’ slide, community outreach project, movie night, themed activities, and so much more!

 

Check out our Gallatin County 4-H Camp informational website for more details and registration links: https://www.montana.edu/extension/gallatin/4hcamp.html

 

Camp Details

  • When: Overnight camp – Sunday, August 2nd (drop-off starting at 9:30am) through Wednesday, August 5th, 2026 (pick-up at 11:00am)
  • Where: Yellowstone Alliance Adventures, located in Cottonwood Canyon just outside Bozeman
  • Who can attend: ANY youth ages 8–13 (based on age as of October 1, 2025)

 

Cost & Registration

  • Register through ZSuite
  • 4-H Camp Registration and payment are due by June 30th at 5:00pm
    • Payment options: Pay online via ZSuite or by cash/check at the 4-H Office (903 N. Black Ave, Bozeman).
    • Camp fills first-come, first-served, with preference given to active 4-H members
    • Need financial assistance? Partial camp scholarships may be available upon request and approval - contact our 4-H office for details.

 

🌺 Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for the ultimate island adventure. We can’t wait for you to join us for a Trip to Paradise at 4-H Camp this summer! Please let us know if you have any questions.
CALENDAR                                                         back to top 
janaie.godin@montana.edu
LOOKING AHEAD:
 
Check out the "4-H Year at a Glance" Calendar for the 2025-2026 4-H Year HERE
 
Our Gallatin 4-H BAND app has ALL 4-H meetings/events listed in one place in the calendar tool (Join BAND here)

 

JUNE 1  Gallatin 4-H Summer Camp Registration OPENS

 

JUNE 1  Fair Sponsorship Deadline

 

JUNE 1  Camp Sponsorship Deadline

 

JUNE 2  ULC Committee Meeting

 

JUNE 4  MSU Concessions Fundraiser - Mumford & Sons Concert

 

JUNE 7  All-Species Workshop: Round Robin Bootcamp (see flyer & RSVP above)

 

JUNE 9  Foundation Committee Meeting (date change due to schedule conflicts)

 

JUNE 13  MANDATORY Camp Counselor Run-Through Day

 

JUNE 15  Montana 4-H State Congress Registration CLOSES

 

JUNE 16  All-Species Workshop: Marketing (see flyer & RSVP above)


JUNE 17  4-H/FFA Fair Registration CLOSES **NO EXCEPTIONS

 

JUNE 23  Newsletter Blurbs DUE

 

JUNE 24  Record Books DUE to the 4-H Office

 

JUNE 30  ULC Committee Meeting (moved up one week due to Congress)

 

See June Committee, Club and Project updates in sections below.

 

JULY 3  Office Closed (Fourth of July)

JULY 5-7  Montana 4-H Pre-Congress

JULY 7-10  Montana 4-H Congress (details above)

JULY 9-10  Animal Project Interviews (Livestock/Small Animal, Horse & Dog/Cat)

JULY 12  Indoor Project Interviews & Exhibit Judging

JULY 10-19  Big Sky Country State Fair (check the Fair schedules)

JULY 17  Market Livestock Auction (live bidding only, starts at 4pm)

JULY 18  Round Robin Master Showmanship Competition (at Fair under AgWest Tent at 1pm)

JULY 18  Graduating Senior Recognition Ceremony (at Fair under AgWest Tent at 2pm)

JULY 18  4-H Family Fun Night Dance (at Fair under AgWest Tent at 6pm)

 

AUGUST 2 - AUGUST 5  "Trip to Paradise" 4-H Summer Camp

AUGUST 6-9  Bozeman Stampede

AUGUST 15  Manhattan Potato Festival

AUGUST 21  MSU Concessions Fundraiser - Red Clay Strays Concert
COMMITTEES                                              back to top

UNLIMITED LEADERS COUNCIL (ULC)

 

The primary purpose of the Unlimited Leaders Council (ULC) is to provide guidance and assistance to the county Extension staff in planning and conducting educational programs. Gallatin County Unlimited Leaders Council is the governing body of Gallatin County 4-H and all the committees within the county 4-H program.

 

The Monthly meeting of the ULC was held Tuesday May 5th at the extension office. 4-H office and volunteers have been busy a few of the highlights include:

  • Volunteer Appreciation nominations
  • Farm Fair - May 5th-7th - lots of 4-H/FFA kids helping in various tents 
  • 4-H Ambassadors/Teens hosted the first ever Junior Rec Lab on Saturday. 60 4-Hers attended.

The committee discussed:

  • Closing dormant side accounts and using the money to help with Junior Rec lab and offset county communications costs
  • ULC Fair 4-H ice cream concessions booth.  This would be open in the afternoons and early evenings during the fair and run by 4-H volunteers. 
  •  In order to be feasible we would need someone to step up and run the concessions booth for the ULC
  • Getting more volunteers to sign up for the indoor promotion booth.  This is a great opportunity for 4-H kids who are only in indoor projects
  •  to help out.
  • Gallatin 4-H foundation reviewed scholarships.  They received 12 applicants and were able to award 8 scholarships to graduating 4-H seniors

 

Important 4-H dates to note coming up:

  • Fair Registration opens on May 26th (after Memorial Day this year). Closes June 17th
  • Summer Camp registration opens June 1st. $275 for 4-H members; $300 for non 4-H.  Camp is limited to 80-85 campers

 

ULC meets the first Tuesday of every month, with our next meeting on 

June 2 AND June 30 2026 (July Meeting) at the Gallatin County Extension Office @ 6:00pm. No meeting in July or August.
MARKET LIVESTOCK COMMITTEE (MLC) 

 

 

The purpose of the Market Livestock Committee is to develop and promote all market livestock projects (Beef, Sheep, Swine, Goat, Rabbit, and Poultry) in 4-H and FFA on a county-wide basis, with support offered to non-market projects as well (Dairy Cow, Dairy Goat, Horse, Breed/Breeding projects).They provide members the educational experience and support to responsibly raise, care for, and sell their 4-H/FFA market animals; organize & facilitate the Gallatin County 4-H/FFA Market Sale; create and enforce the FairBook Rules specific to all livestock species; and work together as a committee to set and enforce the standard for all livestock projects.

 

Our next full committee meeting will be Tuesday, June 23rd at 6pm at the Extension Office.
GALLATIN 4-H FOUNDATION, INC.

 

The mission of the Gallatin 4-H Foundation is to aid and promote, by financial assistance and support, all types of 4-H Programs and other Extension Youth Programs.

 

Meetings occur quarterly and/or when needed, usually on the 4th Thursday at 6pm at the 4-H Office.

 
 
Upcoming Foundation Committee Meetings:
  • Tuesday, June 9, 2026 (date change due to schedule conflicts)
  • Thursday, August 27, 2026
  • October/November 2026 – plans TBD
CLUBS                                                                       back to top
janaie.godin@montana.edu
Member At Large
 

New to 4-H? Not sure what club fits your style? Register for your projects under

“Member at Large” when completing your 4-H Enrollment Clubs page on ZSuite.

 

Participating in a specific 4-H club is not a requirement to participate in 4-H projects, but Clubs provide members a great opportunity to get more involved with their communities, leaders, and group activities.

 

We encourage members to join one of our clubs listed above!
Bozeman Area Clubs
janaie.godin@montana.edu

Dag Nabids Club

 

Meetings take place the second to last Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm at the MSU Animal Bioscience Building on campus in Bozeman.

 

Questions, contact a leader!

Belinda Nash (406) 570-5585 nashmuffin@aol.com

Monika Johnson (406) 579-3211 mijmontana@gmail.com
janaie.godin@montana.edu
Hyalite Hawks Club

 

Meetings take place the second Wednesday of each month at Anderson School at 3:30pm. 

 

Hyalite Hawks had a productive and fun May meeting. We worked on our Record Books at the beginning of the meeting. We were joined by the adult leaders and 2 youth from the Archery Project for a project highlight. This was an absolute blast! We can’t thank Randy Radke and his Archery team enough for providing such a fun opportunity for our members to learn a bit about archery and get to shoot!

 

Our final meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 10th at 3:30 to celebrate all the learning and hard work that has gone into this 4-H year! 

 

Submitted by Morgan Meyer

Questions? Contact Kirsten Drake at

(406) 945-2290 or kdrakem@gmail.com
Four Corners/Gallatin Gateway Area Clubs
janaie.godin@montana.edu
Gateway Challengers Club

 

Meetings take place the second Monday of each month at the Gallatin Gateway Community Center (145 Mill St., Gateway) from 6:30- 8:00 p.m

 

Questions? Contact Jessica at 406-539-0940 or theblacksmail@gmail.com.
Belgrade Area Clubs
janaie.godin@montana.edu
Ora et Labora 4-H Club
 
Meetings take place the second Friday of each month at 6:00pm at Divine Mercy Academy school in Belgrade.

 

It’s almost Fair! 

 

Our last meeting will be June 12th and we will be doing a community service project at Divine Mercy Academy, pulling weeds and ground work, in appreciation for allowing us to use their cafeteria for our meetings each month. Please don’t forget to bring your record books for Mrs. Mitchell or Mrs. Casto to sign your My 4-H Year portion. 

 

On June 13-14 will be our annual succulent sale at Saint John Vianney church after the church services. Stay tuned for a sign up to volunteer to take part!  See you in June! 

 

For any questions, please contact Leaders Ashley Casto or Tia Mitchell:

We generally communicate via Band- https://band.us/n/abadA6zb5cD0u

You can also reach us via email @ oraetlabora4h@gmail.com
janaie.godin@montana.edu
Pass Creek Club

 

Meetings take place on the first Sunday of each month at 4:00pm at Springhill Church in Belgrade.

 

This Club is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.  

 

Keep working on your record books, watch for emails in June about record book signing.

 

For any questions, please contact Cassie Smieja: smiejahay@latmt.com

406-539-3833
janaie.godin@montana.edu
Shining Mountaineers Club

 

Meetings will take place on the second Monday of each month from 6:00-8:00pm at the 161 W. Madison Ave, Belgrade. 

 

Our May Meeting was canceled.

 

June meeting is June 8th from 6-8pm. We will be planning our fair booth decorations, I will sign record books if they are ready and we will have a quilting presentation.

 

Please check all of Molly's emails about fair registration, fair events and all things fair. Deadlines are here and they are hard this year!

 

If you need help with your record books, reach out and we can help!

 

Make sure you join our Band here: https://band.us/n/aeabA2c98bT3B

Join Gallatin County Band here: https://band.us/n/acac88E875306

 

If you'd like to join Shining Mountaineers, please reach out to Lindsey Klebenow through email at shiningmountaineers@gmail.com or

406-551-3841.
Manhattan Area Clubs
janaie.godin@montana.edu

Dry Creek Teens Club

 

Meetings take place on the first Monday of each month at 6:30pm at the Bridge Church in Manhattan. 

 

Check out the Dry Creek Teens BAND profile for meeting updates and events: https://band.us/n/a8a6A30dS9f0u

 

If you have questions, please contact Kelly Pavlik 406-600-1016 or via email kelly.pavlik@barnard-inc.com
janaie.godin@montana.edu
Gallatin Valley Livestock Club

 

Contact leader for meeting dates, times and locations.

 

If you have questions, please contact

Jeff Sposito jffsposito9@gmail.com 
janaie.godin@montana.edu

Manhattan Clever Clovers Club

 

Meetings take place on the second Monday of each month at 6:00pm at the Bridge Church in Manhattan.

 

For any questions, please contact 

Sarah Simser (406) 580-4730 erring@gmail.com

Rebecca Etchison (406) 595-9600 etch898@yahoo.com
Three Forks Area Clubs
janaie.godin@montana.edu
Clarkston Mustangs Club

 

Meetings take place on the third Monday of each month at 6:30pm - locations will vary.

 

For any questions, please contact Cassandra Mitchell:

cassyjh@hotmail.com

406-223-0146

 
janaie.godin@montana.edu
Willow Creek Wranglers Club

 

Contact leader for meeting dates, times and locations. 

 

For any questions, please contact Sam Cavin at 599-8288 sjcavin@msn.com
PROJECTS                                                       back to top
janaie.godin@montana.edu
2025-2026 4-H Projects
(Categorized by "Indoor Projects" or "Animal Projects", then listed alphabetically)
INDOOR PROJECTS
AMBASSADORS / TEEN LEADERSHIP

 

Hello Teen Leaders & Ambassadors🍀

 

Teen Leadership Project Meetings:

  • Monday, June 22nd at 6pm - educational lesson from our Intern, congress prep, fair prep, fair dance, pre-planning Awards Celebration
  • August Meeting TBD - planning end-of-year Awards Celebration

County-wide Activities – teens will be helping plan, facilitate/teach activities at these events

  • Sunday, July 12 - Cloverbud Fair Interviews (if needed) intermittently between 12pm-5pm
  • Saturday, July 18 - 4-H Family Fun Night Dance (at Fair) at 6pm-9pm
  • Sunday, September 20 - Annual end-of-year Awards Celebration 

If you have any questions, please contact leader, 4-H Agent Molly Yurdana

molly.yurdana@montana.edu or text 530-613-9908
BABYSITTING PROJECT   *new project in 2025-2026!
 
*This Project will be capped at 25 youth members. Youth members must be at least 11 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) to participate. 

 

We had 10 “graduates” from the babysitting project at our May meeting!! 

 

A few reminders: 

*You must submit your record book, and My 4-H year by June 24th to be able to exhibit at fair. 

*You will continue to receive e-mails from the main 4-H office about record books, fair registration and fair information and the important dates that go with these things.

*If you need help with your "My 4-H Year" or record book please let me know, I am happy to do a call, a meet up, a video chat.....whatever helps!

*If you have any questions, please please let me or the extension office know!

 

If you have any questions, please contact Erin at ehagmeier@gmail.com 
BAKING PROJECT
 
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

 

Thank you all for a wonderful year of baking, learning, cleaning up and speaking together. This will be the last e-mail from the baking leaders. It was SO neat to see all of the things the kids baked and brought to our May meeting, as well as listen to them share!

 

A few reminders: 

*We would love to see as many kids as possible exhibit baked goods at the fair. If you plan to exhibit at fair, PLEASE read through the baking section of the fair book so you know what the guidelines are. You must submit your baking record book, baking activity book and My 4-H year by June 24th to be able to exhibit at fair. 

*You will continue to receive e-mails from the main 4-H office about record books, fair registration and fair information and the important dates that go with these things.

*If you need help with your "My 4-H Year" or the baking project book or record book please let me know, I am happy to do a call, a meet up, a video chat.....whatever helps!

*If you have any questions, please please let me or the extension office know!

 

If you have any questions, please contact Erin at

(ehagmeier@gmail.com email) or text 406-431-7205 

 

Project Leaders (Baking is our bread and butter!):

Erin Neil

Katie Taylor 

Krista Pancich 
CAKE DECORATING PROJECT  *new leader in 2025-2026!
 

**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

 

Hello Cake Decorators,

 

Happy June! As you know, we do not have any meetings remaining before fair in July. Please continue practicing your decorating skills and working on your record books so you are prepared for fair season.

 

If you have any questions or need help with anything, feel free to reach out anytime.

 

Questions? Contact Izzy at izabellathebaker@icloud.com
CAMP COUNSELOR PROJECT

 

Counselor Fundraising: 

  • Reminder that each of you are REQUIRED to fundraise at least $250 to help support Camp costs (it essentially covers your own camp registration fee).
    • Sponsorships (Sponsorship Letter in BAND for your use) – Money & Logos DUE no later than June 1st
 

Upcoming Meetings: 

  • E-Board Meeting: Wednesdcay, June 3rd at 6pm at Tiffany's House
  • SATURDAY, June 13th 10am-6pm ( MANDATORY Camp Run-Through Day)
  • Thursday, July 26th 6pm - Design/Marketing T-shirt pressing night

If you have any questions, please contact Molly at molly.yurdana@montana.edu 
CLOVERBUD PROJECT (AGES 5-7)  *new leader in 2025-2026!

 

**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

 

The Cloverbud program is designed for youth ages 5-7 (age as of Oct. 1) and strives to develop age-appropriate skills and abilities by giving these young members the opportunity to explore various topics and activities in 4-H before becoming a regular youth member.

 

Our May meeting we had a little potluck and worked on our booth for the fair. There will no more Cloverbud Meetings for the remainder of the 4-H year. Can’t wait to see y'all come October 2026!

 

Questions? Contact leader BreeAnna Benz at breeannaleelynn@gmail.com
COOKING PROJECT  *new leader in 2025-2026!

 

**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

 

I am very grateful to have gotten to work with each of you over the last few months and I have enjoyed seeing all your skills at work. 

 

I intend and hope to be back next year, hopefully more organized and prepared. I hope to see all of you return and show me the new things you have learned. If there is anything you guys would like to learn for next year please let me know! Good luck during the fair and please reach out if you guys have any questions! 

 

Again thank you for an amazing first year together and I am sorry I have had to cancel our last meeting! 

 

Questions? Contact Ryley at ryleyhofeldt@gmail.com

HORSELESS HORSE PROJECT

 

🐴 I do hope you are enjoying some lemo-neigh-de 🍋🍋 as we swing into summer!

 

👢 Our last meet-up will be June 4th for the Valley View Rodeo. All HH members will have their tickets paid for. Families are welcome to join us for 20% off the ticket price (if purchased ahead of time - you are welcome to buy tickets at the gate for regular price, if available). 

 

🍗 Fair entry is open - please reach out if you have any questions on how to enter! HH Members need to turn in their project books and records by June 24th, sign up for an Indoor interview, and prepare a board/display (bring to interview) for the indoor exhibit hall.

 

All 4-H members are eligible to get a free wristband for fair admission for the week of fair. There's so much to do... hang out for a shift in the indoor exhibit hall to tell fair visitors about 4-H, work the 4-H ice cream booth, visit the livestock barns, catch some shows! I can't wait to see you all there. I'm happy to meet with any members personally before June 24th, if you'd like me to check over your books before they are due.

 

🎡 Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Hustle Your Buns Down to the FAIR! 🍀

 

Sarah Capp

(406)539-4386

Questions? Contact leader Sarah Capp at (406) 539-4386 or scapp9999@hotmail.com
KNITTING/CROCHET PROJECTS
 

**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

 

Hello Knitters & Crocheters:

 

When we began in the Fall, we said this Project would meet October-May. However, we have decided to have a June meeting! 

 

Due to leader's schedules, we will have the meeting on Saturday, June 20th (rather than the usual 2nd Saturday of the month). This will be at the Springs from 10am - 12pm.

 

Attendance at the last three meetings has dwindled and we are hoping everyone will be able to come and enjoy our last meeting of the year! We have enjoyed each and every talented and gifted 4-Her and would love to wish you a Happy Summer and perhaps make plans to see you at Fair, if possible. 🙂🍀

 

At the June Meeting, Bonnie and Phyllis will talk about all things Fair and even though most kids are not entering a project in Fair, it will be a fun and informative time! 

 

Please bring your Record Books so we can finish them up. Also bring your home or Fair projects. Plus, any clovers you might have finished so we can add the keychains and gift name tags (see photo attached). 

 

In the next week or so, we will be emailing a short survey so please look for that and respond to help us out for next year. 

 

Kim Hackl kimhackl@gmail.com 406-539-0802

Kate Newton katenewt17@gmail.com 406-451-8753

Bonnie Radke mt4hbonnie@gmail.com 406-219-6602 

Phyllis Lewis  307-4312079 pblewis1943@gmail.com
LEATHERCRAFT PROJECT
 
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

 

Last weekend was the Rocky Mountain Leather Show and International Leather Debut.  I know I didn’t get to talk to everyone who made it down and I am sorry for that.  Life has been a little crazy.  I hope that you all enjoyed the class and got to spend a little time looking at some of the items in the International Leather Debut (below).  YES, everything was made from leather including the feather and the block it is sitting on is all leather.

 

Now onto new business!!!  It is Fair Season!  You have all received emails about Gallatin County’s Fair, already.  I know everyone says it is two months away – but it is only 2 Months away and trust me those two months will fly by!  This is one in a series of emails you will receive from me and the extension office.  PLEASE READ EACH EMAIL!  We are not trying to overload your email, but we are trying to ensure that you get all of the information you need.

 

The extension office sent out an email on (May 12 and May 26) that contained a link to the 2026 Gallatin County Fair Book (included here as well); please review this now so you are prepared when registration opens.  When you open the file navigate to page 24 under Division 172.  Most of you are level 1 leather craft members so you will notice that there are two required items:

  1. Educational display
  2. Carved or stamped coaster or bookmark

 

After these two items you can enter up to 4 more of anything.  Do not feel you need to enter that many, but you have the option to do that.

                  Other than reviewing the fair book what should I be doing now?

  1. Update your recordbooks (one my 4H year, and one non-animal project for the leathercraft project).  Be sure to include pictures.  *Remember I require you fill out the financial records as best you can.  This is, to date, only reason I have had not signed a recordbook.
  2. Work on your activities list.  Remember I gave everyone a page at one of your first meetings (also attached to this email).  You need to complete 7 activities; these should be easily completed because we covered several of them at our meetings.  Please, if you have any questions about what counts and doesn’t reach out to me.  Each item needs to be signed and dated as to when you completed it, you also need to include a write up (a couple of sentences) about what that item. 

 

EXAMPLE:  Casing- tell me what casing is, why do we do it, what are the steps. You can include pictures showing you doing that activity.

 

Below is an example from last year:

Landscape class 

4/12/25 

Gallatin County extension office 

This class was taught by Amanda Fraker and was in the morning. We first learned how bevel the trees then how to make the needle of the trees. Next, we beveled the mountains, the river, and the path. After that we back grounded the path. Than we added texture to trees added grass and the rain. Once we finished the rain, we took a modeling spoon and added snow to the top of the mountains and to add ripples in the water. (remember you can always add a picture)

 
Decide what projects you are going to enter in fair.
****KEEP IN MIND YOU SHOULD MAKE A LIST OF EVERYTHING YOU WANT TO GET DONE BY FAIR****** 
 
Because I want you to enter EVERTHING you might have done by fair.  Indoor projects cost nothing to enter and if you happen to get something done that you didn’t expect to you won’t be able to enter it after Fair Registration CLOSES Wednesday, June 17th at 5pm. All entries must be registered by this time *NO EXCEPTIONS and NO LATE ADDS.
 
Keep working on your projects including your educational poster.  Remember this can be anything such as How you have improved? (with pictures of your pieces work on over the year) What is burnish and how to achieve it? Steps to finishing a project. What are the Types of Lacing.  What are the Types of stitching, etc.  You can put together a scrapbook, poster, or any other display let you imagination run wild!
 
Call me if you have any questions. I think this is long enough for now.  I will let you know when in June the open workshop times are.

 

Any questions or concerns please contact marble@wyoming.com or 406-579-0431 
LIVESTOCK JUDGING PROJECT

 

*If you are already participating in Livestock Judging with FFA, please do not signup to participate/compete in this 4-H Project.

 

Cody and Amy Brownell 

406-209-4183 

Livestockjudging_cody@yahoo.com
PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT

 

**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

 

The Photography Project will meet on the 4th Monday of each month at 6:00pm-7:30pm (October - June) at the 4-H Extension Office. 

 

Check your emails (from the extension office) for the registration/sign-up info. It went out today. Let me know if you have questions or need help.

Mandatory -
1. Process portfolio (white)
2. Personal Project portfolio (black)
3. Record books

You may enter as many individual photos (5x7 or 8x10) as you want, but I will have mattes for 3/member.

Fair Entries due: June 17

Project meeting: June 22
(We’ll finish record books, put together portfolios, and mount your photos in mattes. Make sure to bring you printed photos!)

Record books due: June 24 (but bring them to the project t meeting!)

Label & record books pick up:
July 6-10

Interviews: July 12 noon-5pm (sign up now! Look in you email for registration info and signup genius)

 

BAND APP: https://band.us/n/a0a9AcM794fcI

Please join the PHOTOGRAPHY BAND on the app. This is separate from the County 4-H BAND - same app just different BAND. You may RSVP fo the meeting through BAND and upload any photos.

 

Tamara Knappenberger

c. (307)214-8336 (text)

tkknappenberger@gmail.com

or message me in BAND

 
QUILTING PROJECT
 

Project Notes: Youth members must be at least 10 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) to participate. 

 

The 4-H members in the quilting project have done a super job this year. Everyone has learned so much, and made so much progress. Great job quilters!

 

All quilters - please go over the last email I send you with all the dates and info about record books and fair.  If you have any questions, as always, reach out to me.  

 

Thanks quilters for making this year a great one.

 

If you have questions, please call or text me at 406.581.6843. 

Ginny Francis, Quilting Project Leader

ginnyfrancis@yahoo.com
SEWING PROJECT

 

**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

 

It's hard to believe our last sewing meeting is this month!  Please plan to attend the meeting on Tuesday, June 9th from 5:00 to 7:00 at the RevivAll Studio.

 

Bring your sewing project record book pages as complete as possible.  We will review what information must be included with your record book which will need to be turned in by 6/24 in order to exhibit at fair.  We will also go over fair registration steps and other fair requirements.  

 

Also bring any projects you are still working on for fair and we will use this meeting time to finish them.  Happy sewing!  See you at the meeting!

 

Questions? Contact leader Laura Fisher

howdy@revivallclothing.com

RevivALL Clothing

2105 Lea Ave, Unit A.

www.revivallclothing.com
SHOOTING SPORTS PROJECTS

 

Schedules & Locations: (Schedules per discipline listed below)

     

    Questions? Contact the following leaders:

    Archery – Randy Radke 406-539-4903 gv4harchery@gmail.com

     

    Air Rifle/Pistol – Lee Nelson – 406-579-0612, Bill Ott – 406-209-2599 lee.nelson.330@gmail.com

     

    Smallbore – Tom Everett – 406-570-8878, Scott Francis – 406-581-6845 scott.francis@montana.edu

     

    Shotgun – Scott Francis – 406-581-6845 scott.francis@montana.edu

     

    Muzzle-loading – Scott Francis – 406-581-6845 scott.francis@montana.edu

     

    Western Heritage – Kevin Underwood Kevin.uwood@gmail.com 

     

    Resources:

    Gallatin County 4-H Website: https://www.montana.edu/extension/gallatin/4hyouth.html

    Gallatin 4-H Newsletters: https://www.montana.edu/extension/gallatin/4hnewsletters.html

    Montana 4-H State Shooting Sports Website: https://www.montana.edu/extension/4h/programs_and_events/events/shooting_sports/shooting-sports-event.html

     

    Volunteers Needed:

    Gallatin County 4-H Shooting Sports is in need of more adults to become certified leaders in the different disciplines that are offered in 4-H Shooting.  For us to provide a safe and educational experience, we need your help.  Please consider becoming a leader.  More information on leader trainings will made available as it is received. Please plan to attend.  For more information, please contact Scott Francis 406-581-6845.
    ARCHERY PROJECT 

    **This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

     

    Project Notes: *Youth members must be at least 9 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) to participate.

     

    With archery season behind us, now is the time to prep your 4-H record books and plan an indoor archery project. This could be a poster talking about the parts of a bow, the different archery classes or how to score an archery target. 

     

    Before Fair

    • Submit an indoor exhibit to showcase archery
    • Sign up for an indoor interview
    • Help volunteer at the 4-H promotional booth or sign up to help at the ice cream stand

    Do remember that we will present two Belt Buckles to our top 4-H Archers for the 2025-26 4-H year.  One for Senior Archery members (14+ year olds) and one for Junior Archery members (9-13 year olds). While archery scores count, being an active 4-H member also counts.

     

    To be in the running for the belt buckle award:

    • Members will keep 4-H Archery Record Books up to date throughout the year with the completed archery
    • Record book turned in for Fair (by June 24)
    • Members will create an indoor exhibit for fair
    • Members will participate in an indoor interview during fair

    Location will be held at Big Sky Archery, 77 Laura Louise Lane located at the intersection of Baxter Lane and Jackrabbit Lane on Sundays from 1:00 – 5:00 pm (in the basement of the facility. There are not many chairs, so if you as a parent want to stick around please plan accordingly.

     

    Parent Volunteers:

    Randy Radke, Brian Marassi, Mike Prester, Travis Earl, Jake Noonan and Paul Smart are the current co-archery leaders. Anyone who would like to help facilitate please reach out to Randy at gv4harchery@gmail.com.  
    AIR RIFLE & AIR PISTOL PROJECTS

     

    Project Notes: *Youth members must be at least 9 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) to participate.

     

    The venue for air rifle and air pistol is located at 123 Doe Road in Belgrade. For more information contact Lee Nelson – 579-0612.

    SMALL BORE RIFLE/PISTOL PROJECT

     

    Project Notes: *Youth members must be at least 10 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) to participate. It is a pre-requisite that the shooters have 1 year of Shooting Sports Experience. 

     

    The day for shooting will be selected by the shooters and parents during the county-wide parent meeting.

     

    Greenway Range is located at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, 901 North Black in Bozeman. The number of smallbore shooters will be capped at 25. The returning shooters will be given priority. It is a pre-requisite that the shooters have 1 year of Shooting Sports Experience. We will then establish a waiting list. For more information contact Scott Francis – 581-6845 or Tom Everett – 570-8878

    SHOTGUN PROJECT

     

    Project Notes: *Youth members must be at least 10 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) to participate.

     

    Shotgun will start on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Manhattan Wildlife Association Trap Range located at 337 Logan Trident Road in Logan. There will be a mandatory parent and safety meeting prior to shooting. All shooters need to attend. It is strongly recommended that the participant be 10 years of age. For more information contact Scott Francis – 581-6845.

     

    Shotgun - Manhattan Wildlife Association (Logan) - Sundays


    For more information contact Scott Francis – 581-6845.

    MUZZLE-LOADING & HUNTING SKILLS PROJECT

     

    It is recommended but not required that the participants be at least 12 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) and have been in Hunter’s Education. 

     

    The Muzzle-loading Project will be determined later in the shooting season. The Hunting & Wildlife Project will be determined later in the year. Please check the newsletter for days and times. It is recommended but not required that the participants be 12 years of age and have been in Hunter’s Education

     

    Contact Scott Francis – 581-6845 for more information.

    WESTERN HERITAGE PROJECT

     

    Project Notes: *Youth members must be at least 9 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) to participate.

     

    Hello 4-H Western Heritage Shooting Sports Families,

     

    After careful consideration, I regret to inform you that the Gallatin 4-H office will be canceling the Western Heritage Shooting Sports project for the 2025-2026 4-H year. While we know this may be disappointing news, this decision was made to ensure that all 4-H projects meet our program standards for leader preparedness, communication, and overall quality youth experience.

     

    At this point, it would not be appropriate to continue holding families “on standby” or charging project fees without a clear, compliant plan in place. It is our mission to provide high quality, hands-on educational experiences to our youth and we were not able to solidify plans for this year’s project in time to deliver those experiences. Our office will begin the process of refunding enrolled families ($40 shooting sports fee + $5 project fee per youth) via mailed checks in the coming weeks.

     

    We appreciate your patience and understanding. We recognize the interest in this project and hope to work toward re-offering the Western Heritage Shooting Sports project in a future 4-H year. If you have questions, please feel free to contact the 4-H office.

    VET SCIENCE PROJECT

     

    Questions? Contact Monika Johnson 406-579-3211 mijmontana@gmail.com 
    ANIMAL PROJECTS

    BEEF PROJECT

     

    **This Project (Market AND Breeding) is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

     

    Project Notes: *Youth members must be at least 10 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) to participate.

     

    ALMOST FAIR TIME KIDS!

     

    Thursday, June 18, 6:45pm will be our FINAL workshop. Gallatin County Fairgrounds. Bringing your steer is recommended but not required. PRACTICE FAIR. 

     

    Please keep your eyes peeled for emails and texts regarding fair! 

     

    Questions? Contact the Beef Committee:

    gallatinbeefproject@gmail.com 

    ANNABEL MORGAN   406-580-9003
    KELLY PAVLIK   406-600-1016

    MELANIE DUFFIN   406-209-1978
    CRAIG DEBOER   406-570-3304
    CAT PROJECT
     

    Our next meeting will be Wednesday, June 3rd 5:00pm-6:00pm. There will be no dinner at this meeting. Remi Neil and Kate Oghigian will be presenting how to show your cat for the 4-H fair.  We will likely have a workshop late June where you can bring your own kitties, maybe even to the fairground if I can reserve a time for Building 3 as a "run through" for the show.  Remember I do need vaccine records (up to date!) per requirements for the show.

     

    We are also trying to get together a big auction basket for the 4-H Fair Sales Night for the Gallatin County 4-H Cat Project so we can earn money for our project to be able to do more field trips and fun activities! Our basket theme will be a "Cat (MSU Bobcats) Basket" for people to bid on and win. Please, if you are able to go somewhere you think promising in our area, have friends/family who can donate to this, or have new or lightly used things you may be able to donate, let me know! I sent an example of a donation letter via email (just copy/paste and fill in the blanks) you can use to help us out- just let us all know if you will be going somewhere to ask for donations so we don't double up on visits. 

     

    If you plan on participating in the costume and/or cage decorating contest at the fair, there will be a ribbon for Best costume and Best decoration…For example, you could dress your cat up as a bat, and his or her cage as a cave, though the two don’t have to be related.

     

    Julie Oghigian DVM CVA 

    Cell (text is good too)- 714-206-4636

    Alpenglow Veterinary Services, Inc

    Montview Labradors www.montviewlabradors.com
    DAIRY COW PROJECT
     

    Welcome to the month of June for the dairy cow project members!

     

    Thank you to the members for doing your presentations at our April workshop and for teaching the other project members about the dairy industry and dairy products. Our final project meeting before fair will be held on June 18, 2026 at the 4-H office from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. We will be having a pizza party so please plan to have your parents attend this workshop with you!  As record books are due on June 24, 2026 please call either Cassie or Shawna if you have any questions. Looking forward to a fun fair and show!

     

    Also remember that the Round Robin Boot Camp is on June 7, 2026. Please plan to attend this workshop as all of our project members have a good chance of being in the round robin event this year!

     

    Questions? Contact leaders: 

    Shawna Oostema (406) 580-7819

    Cassie Smieja (406) 539-3833.
    DOG OBEDIENCE & AGILITY PROJECTS  *new leader in 2025-2026!
     
    **This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
     

    Hello Everyone!

     

    As we head into the month of June, that puts us just a little over a month from fair! Please make sure that you are working on both your record books as well as your project books and that you are at least thinking of topics for your poster if you haven't started researching yet. In the month of June, we will be meeting every Wednesday at regularly scheduled times. We will also have a special last seminar on Tuesday, 6/9 from about 4:30pm to 6pm at Gallatin Vet Hospital for a Pet First Aid and CPR class. If you are interested in attending this seminar, please let me know ASAP as space is limited. If any locations for either obedience or agility are offsite, I will send a note home with that change otherwise class will be held at MMK. 

     

    As usual, if anyone has any questions/concerns, please reach out!

     

    Jen Osler

    406.388.4789 (work)

    361.446.1209 (cell)

    facility@montanamurraykennels.com
    DAIRY GOAT PROJECT

     

    If you are in BOTH Dairy and Market goat projects you will need to attend 4 workshops for the dairy project and 4 workshops for the market project.  

     

    June 11th 6:00pm- Showmanship workshop @ Gallatin County Fairgrounds Indoor arena

    • Demonstration and practice for proper showing of your show goat at fair.  Learn how and what to expect for the judge. Mandatory attendance!

     

    Other Important Mandatory Dates

     

    June 24th  Proof of negative CL/CAE results

    • We require a negative CL/CAE test on all dairy goats coming to fair.  Please let me know if you have any questions ASAP! 

    June 24th By 5:00pm (no exceptions)  Record Book turn in deadline

    • All record books must be turned into the 4H office by 5:00pm, they can be turned in early if there is a conflict of schedule.  Let me know if you have any questions

    July 9-10 Project Interviews

    • All members wishing to participate at fair must complete a interview on one of these days.  4H office will send out information of available time slots closer to the date for scheduling.  

    July 13th 4:00pm-6:00pm Fair Vet Check and Check-in

     

    Questions? Contact a Dairy Goat Leader:

    Lea’h MacDonald (406) 220-3556 lmk80@live.com

    Rachel Colton (406) 548-1915

    Cassandra Mitchell 406-223-0146
    MEAT GOAT PROJECT

     

    If you are in BOTH Dairy and Market goat projects you will need to attend 4 workshops for the dairy project and 4 workshops for the market project.  

     

    Remaining Market Goats Mandatory workshops - these are required for you to attend fair

     

    June 11th 6:00pm- Showmanship workshop @ Gallatin County Fairgrounds Indoor Arena

    • Demonstration and practice for proper showing of your show goat at fair.  Learn how and what to expect for the judge.

     

    Other Important Mandatory Dates

     

    June 24th By 5:00pm (no exceptions)  Record Book turn in deadline

    • All record books must be turned into the 4H office by 5:00pm, they can be turned in early if there is a conflict of schedule.  Let me know if you have any questions

    July 9-10 Project Interviews

    • All members wishing to participate at fair must complete a interview on one of these days.  4H office will send out information of available time slots closer to the date for scheduling.

    July 13th 4:00-6:00pm Fair Vet check and Check-in

     

    Questions? Contact a Market Goat Leader:

    Lea’h MacDonald (406) 220-3556 lmk80@live.com

    Amy Brownell (406) 209-2720 abrownell3372@gmail.com

    Rachel Colton (406) 548-1915

    HORSE PROJECTS

     

    Hi Horse Members!  Fair is quickly approaching so read carefully to make sure you are meeting all the requirements for participation.  Call a leader or Reach out to gc4hhorse@gmail.com with your questions, and someone will get back to you!  We are here to help!   

     

    UPCOMING CLINICS AND EVENTS: The complete calendar of events and sign up links are available on our website at  Gallatin County 4H Horse (links are now viewable from phone!).  3 clinics is the minimum clinic requirement to show at fair, with each project having some additional requirements.  Don't miss out on the awesome clinics being offered this month!  

     

    June 12th- Pre-fair Clinic- 3-7:30pm at Fairgrounds (open to all who are showing at fair).  Come when you can to practice showmanship, trail, and western patterns. Colts welcome. Sign up on Calendar   

    June 13- WRH Clinic with Cattle at Fairground.  Sign up on calendar

    June 16- Clinic with Judge Michelle Tucker, Check calendar for sign up (Open to ENGLISH and WESTERN, space is limited, fees apply)

    June 17th- Fair Registration closes at 5pm Fair Info

    June 21-23 English J/D Horse Camp- Contact Sheila Smart

    June 24- RECORD BOOKS DUE to OFFICE

    July 9-10 Horse Interviews Interview info

    July 10-12- Big Sky Country Horse Show (FAIR)  Draft Schedule

    September 10-13th - State 4H Horse Show (open to ALL members who show at county, regardless of placing!!) 

    September 18-20th- Working Ranch Horse Finals (open to WRH project members and family. Details coming soon!)

    FAIR HORSE CHECKLIST:

    • Register for Fair:  May 26-June 17 
    • MAKE SURE YOU HAVE GIVEN A SPRING VACCINATIONS TO YOUR HORSE AND  UPLOADED DOCUMENTATION (Must be Given between Feb 1-June 1)  In order to participate in Fair, a Flu/Rhino or 5 or 6 way vaccine (which includes flu/rhino) must be administered between February 1 and June 15th.  If you haven't vaccinated this spring, NOW is the time!  Upload the info in the "spring Vaccine" category of the Paperwork Requirements spreadsheet.    To upload vaccines or horse pics,  visit www.gallatincounty4hhorse.com and scroll down to the Paperwork Requirement 
    • Meet Clinic requirements
    • RECORD BOOKS: Record books are due June 24th.    All members must complete a MY 4H Year and Animal Project Journal and Financial record.  You must submit these to 4H office by due date.  See Horse Scoring Rubric
    • Make a poster about your horse and what you have learned this year. (Optional) Try to use the 4H theme ,  Display your poster on your stall at Fair. There will be an award for best poster.    

    Other Info:

    • Need more help with your horse?  Take advantage of the SCHOLARSHIP FUND!!  (NEW OPPORTUNITY!!!)  In order to meet the diverse needs of our motivated members, the Horse Committee is offering a Lesson Scholarship Fund to members who have attended at least three horse project clinics. Up to $75 per member is available to help fund private or group lessons with the horse professional of your choice!!!  To learn more about this exciting opportunity to improve your riding even further, check it out: Lesson Scholarship Fund!   This form is your application to apply, and must be filled out AFTER you have attended three 4H horse project clinics.  If you meet the requirements, this can be used to pay for clinic with Michelle Tucker.  
    • Wondering about if your bit is legal for show?  Check out the new bit guide for assistance! Bit Guide
    POULTRY PROJECT - Market or Breed/Show
     
    **This Project (Market AND Breed/Show) is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.

     

    Happy June to all of the 4-H poultry project members!

     

    Thank you to those who helped last month with the 4th Grade Farm Fair. The 4th grade students learned about poultry/rabbits and the 4-H program thanks to our presenting members.  Also, thank you to those members who attended our May workshop and got more help with showmanship.

     

    Our last poultry workshop prior to fair is on June 11, 2026 at the Fairgrounds Building 3 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. We will be going over fair preparations and record book help. We will also have the opportunity to work on showmanship at this meeting, so bring a bird if you want to practice.

     

    Any questions please call one of the project leaders. Remember, record books are due on June 24, 2026 at 5pm!

     

    The 4-H Poultry Project Leader's Committee

    Shawna Oostema: 406-580-7819, fcclashawna@hotmail.com       

    Judy Brownell: onebar4@aol.com 

    Judy Neiminen: 406-599-0639; lneiminen@gmail.com 
    RABBIT PROJECT - Market or Breed/Pet

     

    May was a busy month for the rabbit project! We had our annual Rabbit Rendezvous where we practiced showmanship skills for the fair in a mock show and pushed our senior members to learn more about judging different breeds of rabbits. We had a great turn out and ate some great doughnuts. 

     

    Our regular monthly meeting consisted of rabbit trivia, body types, and rabbit tattooing! Thank you to Sean Marble for the tattoo boxes he made to help us keep the rabbits still while we give them tattoos. Sean then stepped up and gave his senior presentation on a topic of his choice - rabbit color genetics. It's a tough topic, but he nailed it!

     

    Up Next:

     

    5/26-6/17 - Far Registration Period

    6/7 - NEW  Round Robin Bootcamp; keep an eye on the newsletter for details

    6/16 - All Species Meeting: Marketing & Sale Info

    6/18 - Last Rabbit Meeting Before Fair

    6/24 - Record Books Due in the Office

    6/27 - Fair set up in the rabbit barn. 9am-12pm 

    6/30 - Meat Pen Tattoo Date; location tbd

    7/9 &10 - Animal Interviews

    7/13 - Rabbit Check In/Vet Check for Fair

    7/14 - Rabbit Shows (rabbits will stay at the fairgrounds all week after the shows)

     

    Keep your eyes on your emails please and don't hesitate to reach out!

     

    If you are enrolled in a 4-H/FFA livestock project and are planning to show and/or sell an animal at our Gallatin County 4-H/FFA Fair this upcoming summer, please read and sign the 2025-2026 Gallatin County Livestock Contract. 

     

    This contract explains the livestock project workshop requirements, animal possession deadlines, expectations and other important fair information. This contract is MANDATORY if you are selling a market animal and is due by the possession date for your species (listed in Section 2 on the contract). After both the youth and parent/guardian signs, you and the 4-H Office will be auto-emailed a copy of the completed contract to keep for your records. The 4-H Office will pass along the signed contracts to the appropriate species leaders and FFA advisers (if applicable).**Please Note: The Gallatin County Livestock Contract is in addition to any other species-specific contracts that your project leaders may give you.

     

    Sign Contract Here: https://na3.docusign.net/Member/PowerFormSigning.aspx?PowerFormId=d04300b2-a438-4f39-b220-1f239c698aac&env=na3&acct=960f6090-f7cb-40a6-adf5-0490f456d6eb&v=2

     

    Questions?

    Monica Samson 406-399-1866

    Jim Murphy 406-946-2522
    SHEEP PROJECT
     
    **This Project (Market AND Breeding) is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
     

    A few quick notes to remember:

    1. All first year members (regardless of age) and first year senior members (ages 14+) need to take the AQA workshop (the 4-H office would have emailed you if you need to complete this requirement this year)
    2. You must attend (4) Sheep Workshops to show at fair
      1. REMEMBER - you may use ONE of the following as a substitution for a sheep workshop: a jackpot, a countywide workshop or a lamb camp. If you go to a jackpot or a lamb camp with your lamb please submit a picture to the leaders for credit.
    3. If you are more than 10 minutes late to a workshop it will not be eligible to count towards your four required workshops.
    Now that you all have your lambs please remember if you have any questions about feed or your lambs are looking sick please don’t wait to call or txt one of the leaders to help you!
     
    *Please take the time to read through the Fairbook!* 

     

    Showmanship Workshop - Lets practice showing -  bring your lambs. We will also offer a slick shearing demo

    Where: Fairgrounds indoor arena 

    When: June 1st

    Time: 6:00 pm

     

    Rough Shear - We offer an opportunity to have your lambs rough sheared in June

    *rough shear does NOT count as a workshop* There is a small charge per lamb.

    Where: fairgrounds

    When: June 1st (After Showmanship Workshop)

    Time: 7:15pm 

    Ryan is going to be able to rough shear our lambs on Monday June 1st after the showmanship/slick shearing workshop.  He will be ready to go by 715pm, by the indoor arena at the fairgrounds. He charges $8/lamb. Please have cash for him.  It was incredible that he offered to come over on a weeknight, we really appreciate it!

     

    Pre-fair Workshop - Great workshop to come to, we will go over requirements for show, posters, barn duty, vet checks, what to bring to fair, fair interview practice and all the last minute questions you might have. Also we have a clothing swap bring your nice used show jeans or show shirts!

    Where: 4-H office (903 N. Black Ave)

    When: June 15th

    Time: 6:30

     

    Questions? Contact the Sheep Committee:

    Ruth Carr- (406) 539-4337 kennellr@gmail.com

    Kim Flikkema- (406) 599-1486 kimflikkema@gmail.com 

    JodiLynn Kelley- (512) 663-5569 jodilynnkelley08@gmail.com

    Jodi Smith-(406) 580-2984 kjsmithhouse@yahoo.com

    Jake Noonan-(406) 529-8107

    Sarah Noonan-(406) 529-6185

    Chase Dykstrahouse-(406) 539-2083
    SWINE PROJECT

        Hey Swine Crew!!! 

        We hope your pigs are growing well!! Lots happening!

         

        Check all the green dots to stay in the loop!

         

        🟢WORKSHOPSYou need 3 swine workshops! ✅✅✅ THIS IS THE LIST OF ALL REMAINING WORKSHOPS FOR THIS YEAR.  If you are unsure of your current workshop count, the attached list has the members that still need workshops. 

         

        https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ZiYS-wFfZt_liQJn2mbw3AKQgKRxqZYXkj_keeuTD4w/edit

         

        Round Robin Bootcamp - ALL SPECIES 

        June 7th (Sunday) @ 1-5pm

        Location: Fairgrounds Indoor Arena

        Learn how to show many of the animal varieties in this half day, hands on workshop.

         

        Fitting and Clipping

        June 9th (Tuesday) @ 6:30pm

        Location: Fairgrounds 

        Learn about the different ways you can prepare your hog for a show.

         

        Showmanship & Judge Terms Workshop - Competitive and Beginner

        June 11th (Thursday) @ 6:00pm

        Location: Fairgrounds Livestock West

        Expand upon your showmanship understanding and skills at this advanced showman workshop.

         

        Marketing- ALL SPECIES 

        June 16th (Tuesday) @ 6:30-8:30pm

        Location: Fairgrounds Exhibit Building 4

        Great information and tips on marketing your animal to businesses and individuals.

         

        🟢RECORD BOOKS DUE TO 4H OFFICE

        Your record books are due by June 24th before 5pm to the 4H office. This includes the "My 4H Year,", the "Animal Project & FInancial Journal", and your workbook with 7 activities completed or the alternate 7 paragraphs from the list of approved activities.

        🟢INTERVIEWS - HEADS UP

        You must complete an interview for your swine project, these will be offered on July 9th and 10th from 4-8pm.  Watch for the sign up opportunity to come from the extension office. 

        🟢WORKBOOKS

        Workbook Requirements and Changes- We made some changes last year, so please reach out with any questions.

             Members 1st & 2nd Year in Swine - Please complete 7 workbook activities in the first swine workbook(pick this up from the Extension Office at the Fairgrounds if you do not have one)

         

             Members 3rd year or more in Swine - NEW last year -You have the option of using books 2 and 3 or we have a list of activities for you to choose from.  You will still need to complete 7 activities total and turn in the written piece for any of the activities you choose from the list. These will be turned in with the standard My 4H Year and financial worksheets in your binder or folder. The list is attached to this email. 

         

             All Members - The My 4H Year packet and Financial Records packet still need to be completed every year and turned in with your workbook activities - these are at the Extension Office at the Fairgrounds if you still need them. Or snag them online.  Animal Project Journal and Financial Record.  My 4H Year

         

        3rd year+ topics: 3rd Year and Up Workbooks Topics - 2026 - Google Docs 

         

        FAIR PHOTOS

        We wanted to let you know that we will have a new process for our swine photos at the fair this year. Our project has grown and we are very aware that the photo day and process have been long for some of you in the past few years - thank you for helping and for keeping great attitudes as we tried to get you and your pig set for photos! 

         

        We are excited to let you know that this year we have a photographer coming to do our swine photos in the show! This means she will be working as we do our market and showmanship shows to grab great in action photos of each exhibitor with each of their hogs. She has experience in this and we are grateful to have her joining us for our fair and project. Also, each exhibitor will have access to download photos free of charge! 

         

        There will be a backdrop set up at the fair if you would like to take your own posed photos for your use.

         

        BUDDY PIG PROCESSING

         We will have limited spots available for buddy pigs to be processed alongside the fair pigs at one of our processors. In order to secure a spot or multiple for your buddy hog(s), we will need to collect a $25 per pig transportation fee and have you on our ship list. The deadline for reserving your spot(s) and paying the fee is July 14th. Please email Merle to reserve your spot(s). 

        Merle - merle.farrier@gmail.com

        (Checks can be made out to Gallatin County 4H Market Livestock Sale) 

         

        🟢WEIGHING YOUR PIGS

        The swine project has a scale that you can check out for a 2 day period to weigh your pigs. If you would like to use it, you are responsible to pick up the scale(it's on a trailer), set up/break down the scale, clean it when finished and reload it securely on the trailer for the next member. 

         

        Use the link to sign up for use, we ask that each family chooses one 2 day window to allow all members a chance. 

         

        You can also reach out to Cory Taylor about weighing pigs in Manhattan. 

        Swine Scale Schedule: 2026 Swine Scale Schedule - Google Sheets 

         

        🟢INFO and REMINDERS

        Like Reminders via text? Register your cell phone (and any Members) for our Remind page. This app helps you stay in the loop! (we recently disabled the 2025 Remind so you must re-register for 2026) https://www.remind.com/join/2026swin or text @2026swin to 81010 and reply once with your name.

         

        We also have a BAND group to help you stay in the loop!! 

        https://band.us/n/aaafbcw1Z2y2m

         

         🟢HELPING - HUGE THANKS TO THOSE THAT HELPED WITH THE MURDOCHS BURGER COOK-OUT FUNDRAISER!

        How can we help the Swine Project as a whole? 💰

        TEAM EFFORT Fundraising! We raise funds as a group for all the awesome things we get to do!! For all of this, we would LOVE for you and your family to sign up for a MSU Game and/or Concert Concessions spot. It's a great fundraiser and it empowers the kids to contribute/help! You show up, sign in and the earnings are transferred through the 4-H Office. 

         

        If each swine family jumps in once, we will be in GREAT shape! 

         

        Sign Up Here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084DA9A92AABFE3-48570182-fall#/

         

         

        Thanks!

         The Swine Committee

         

        Questions? Contact the Swine Committee at gallatinswineproject@gmail.com 
        Gallatin County 4-H Resources
         
        Gallatin 4-H Website Forms Page contains the links to our:
        • Record Book forms + instructions on Record Book requirements/scoring
        • Financial Assistance Request form
        • Facility Rental Request google form
        • Fundraising Policy + Fundraiser Request form
        • Livestock Project contracts
        • Shooting Sports Informed Consent/Medical Release forms
        • Youth Leadership applications
        • Scholarship Applications
        Gallatin 4-H BAND page has ALL 4-H meetings/events listed in one place in the calendar tool (Join BAND here)
         
        Gallatin 4-H Marketplace private Facebook Group to be a space for Gallatin 4-H members and families to give away, buy, sell or trade project-related items. Whether you’re looking for supplies, equipment, show clothes, animals or gently-used gear, this group helps connect our 4-H community in a safe and supportive way. Join Group here:https://www.facebook.com/groups/2064328691002313/ 
        Group Guidelines:
        • Posts must be 4-H or project related
        • Be respectful and honest in all transactions
        • Buyers and sellers must coordinate their own arrangements
        • No fundraising or non-4-H sales
        • Admins reserve the right to remove posts that don’t meet guidelines
        janaie.godin@montana.edu
        Gallatin County MSU Extension Office | 903 North Black Ave | Bozeman, MT 59715
        (406) 582-3280
        Colyn Wiening, 4-H Assistant gallatin4h@montana.edu
        Molly Yurdana, 4-H Extension Agent  molly.yurdana@montana.edu  
        Kari Ballenger, Extension Administrative Assistant gallatin@montana.edu
        janaie.godin@montana.edu
        janaie.godin@montana.edu
        janaie.godin@montana.edu

        The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Montana State University and the Montana State University Extension prohibit discrimination in all of their programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital and family status. Issued in furtherance of cooperative extension work in agriculture and home economics, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cody Stone, Director of Extension, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717. 


        To request disability accommodation or to inform us of special needs, please contact the Extension Office at 406-582-3280  five (5) working days before the event.

         

        Molly Yurdana
        Gallatin County MSU Extension
        4-H Youth Development Agent

        (406) 582-3284 | molly.yurdana@montana.edu | https://www.montana.edu/extension/gallatin/                                                                                                                  back to top
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        Gallatin County MSU Extension | 903 North Black Ave | Bozeman, MT 59715

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