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COUNTDOWN TO FAIR!
We are only a few days away from the start of the 2026 Big Sky Country State Fair!
The 2026 Fairbook,
"Are You Ready for Fair Checklist," Buyer Marketing Materials and
MORE are all on our office website here: 4-H/FFA Fair Information - Gallatin County Extension | Montana State University
4-H Youth Exhibitor & Adult Fair Admissions Wristbands: AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE & PICK-UP AT OUR 4-H OFFICE
Beginning on the Wednesday of Fair Week (July 15th) the gates open to the public and all 4-H families and exhibitors must have 4-H wristbands to enter the Fair each day (through July 19th).
- 4-H Office Prices will be as follows:
- 4-H Youth (exhibiting at fair) Wristband = FREE
- 4-H Adult Week Pass Wristband = $25 each
- Additional Youth (not exhibiting at fair) Wristband = $15 each
- Day-Passes for friends, extended family (grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins, etc.) or Buyers that come to support you during fair and Carnival Wristbands will be available for separate purchase through the Fairgrounds Website: Gallatin County Fairgrounds Tickets (etix.com)
Fairgrounds Parking - The Fairgrounds is
very limited on parking during Fair Week, more so this year than ever before, so please be mindful of the following policies:
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ALL exhibitors and spectators will need to park in the free general public lots, Tamarack (Gate A) and Oak St (Gate B). Both can be used to come in for shows, loading in supplies and such. The Tamarack Lot (Gate A) will be the one opening at 7am for early morning access and closer proximity to the showrings.
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ALL 4-H/FFA families will receive a FREE "Fast Pass" drop-off pass (Yellow Pass) for use at West Oak (Gate C) when needed. This pass allows drive-in access to the livestock barns (i.e. to drop off supplies, feed, etc). These passes only allow up to 2-hour parking/access to those areas until 10am when the gates close and the Fair opens to the public at 11am each day. Vehicles that are not moved out of the gated area by 10am will be towed.
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2026 4-H/FFA Fair Schedules
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. |
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REQUIRED 4-H Project Interviews
ALL Gallatin County 4-H Members must participate in an interview evaluation with their record book in order to enter exhibits in the Fair.
You must pick up your Record Books prior to your Project Interview(s) since you must bring your records with you to your interview.
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 Record Books at check-in in order to meet eligibility requirements for Fair and project nominations.
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
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- Dress nicely and bring your completed and SIGNED Project Record Book(s) to your interview
- If you are in the Dog or Cat Project, and are be submitting a Dog or Cat Educational Poster, bring the poster to this interview (it will be judged at a later time.
- Indoor Projects Interview SignUp: https://www.signupgenius.com/tabs/13573DF03A0CAE5C53-indoor (SUNDAY, July 12th between 12pm – 5pm)
- Dress nicely and bring your completed and SIGNED Project Record Book(s) to your interview and project exhibits WITH EXHIBIT TAGS ATTACHED as they will be evaluated during your interview with a judge.
Record Book & Interview Scoring Procedure:
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 a 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. |
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Indoor Project Exhibit Information
Indoor Project Exhibit Tag Pick-Up: All 4-H Indoor Project Exhibitors must pick-up their Indoor Exhibit Tags
PRIOR to their interviews/exhibit judging.
- Exhibit Tags will be available and must be picked up from the 4-H Office Front Desk between July 1-July 10 (you’ll already be picking up your scored record books from the office during this time).
- Yellow exhibit tags must be securely attached to the appropriate exhibit upon arrival to your Interview to help expedite Check-In.
- Per the 2026 Fairbook - There will be no write-in entries – if you didn’t enter the exhibit into ShoWorks by the Fair Registration deadline, we won’t have an exhibit tag for it, and it will not be judged.
- READ your Project Division section of the Fairbook for any entry specifications, requirements, etc. (i.e. baking/cooking entries need recipes attached to the food exhibit).
Indoor Project Interviews & Exhibit Judging:
Indoor Project Interviews are on SUNDAY, July 12th. You SHOULD receive an automated reminder notification from the Indoor Interview SignUp Genius 2 days prior to your interview time.
- Plan ahead and check/verify your interview time(s) via the SignUp here: https://www.signupgenius.com/tabs/13573DF03A0CAE5C53-indoor.
- MEMBERS WILL STILL NEED TAKE THEIR COMPLETED RECORD BOOKS TO THEIR PROJECT INTERVIEWS!! This year, signatures for the My 4-H Year form and Non-Animal Project Journal & Financial Records will be checked/verified upon Project Interview check-in. Members must have completed and appropriately signed Record Books at check-in in order to meet eligibility requirements for Fair and project nominations.
- Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time to check-in and verify your exhibit tags. **If you had more than 3 entries in one division (ex. photography or leathercraft) we have added an additional timeslot for you so you have enough time to talk about all your exhibits and the judge has enough time to score them all.
- Remember that our judges are volunteer community members and we must accommodate their schedules – we ask that families and exhibitors be understanding of any wait times that occur.
The Interviews will be held at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds in Exhibit Building #4 this year. Please park in the dirt lot within the Fairgrounds off of Tamarack St. and enter through the east side of Building #4 – there will be signage outside the door.
Indoor Project Silent Auction:
- Indoor Project Youth members may select up to 5 items to enter in the Indoor Silent Auction each year. *Cloverbuds (youth members ages 5-7) are not eligible for the Silent Auction.
- Item Eligibility: Items submitted to the Silent Auction must have been entered in the Fair (by the 4-H/FFA fair registration deadline), judged on Indoor Project Interview Day, and received a ribbon and judging rubric.
- *New in 2026: To be eligible for the Silent Auction, the item must have received a Red Ribbon or higher. White Ribbon exhibits will not be eligible to sell. Declaring an item for Silent Auction does not guarantee it will sell. Red Ribbon items will be subject to leader review/approval.
- Youth can declare their Silent Auction exhibits after indoor judging has concluded. Silent Auction items must be declared by Tuesday, July 14th by 1:00pm by moving the selected items to the “Silent Auction” table in the Indoor Building. Bids will be written on bidding sheets. Bidding will open on Wednesday, July 15th at 11:00am and close on Sunday, July 19th at 6:00pm. The highest bidders will be contacted by the 4-H Office to pick up items and pay after the conclusion of Fair.
- Youth will receive payment from their items through the Leaders Council after all money is collected from buyers. Auction earnings will be dispersed with Award Premium checks (estimated mid-September).
Indoor Project Exhibit Pick-Up:
All Indoor Exhibits will be on display for the public to enjoy July 15th – 19th in Exhibit Building #3 – come check them out!! Exhibits MUST remain on display for the entirety of Fair Week. Exhibits can be picked up in Exhibit Building #3 either
AFTER 6pm on Sunday, July 19th or
BETWEEN 10am-12pm on Monday, July 20th.
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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.
Instead of a full concession’s menu, we are pivoting to offer
4-H ICE CREAM at the 2026 Fair as our fundraiser. We need 4-H members and parents to help sell pre-wrapped ice cream and bottled water at our 4-H Concessions booth throughout Fair week.
SignUp for Ice Cream Shack shifts here:
There will also 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. |
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4-H Promotional Booth
This is your chance to showcase all your hard work and spread the word about 4-H. The fair only comes once a year and we need to take advantage of this opportunity that is given to us. We need 4-H members and parents/leaders to help at the 4-H promotional booth in the indoor building.You will simply just need to be there and answer questions regarding how to get involved or to pass out the information we will have laid out on the booth table, as well as promotional items. Think of this as "Indoor Barn Duty" - show off what our 4-H members have created, the Club booths and how awesome our organization is!
2026 SignUp: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084DA9A92AABFE3-63106256-2026
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2026 Market Livestock Auction & Marketing Materials
All Market Livestock Auction Marketing Materials & Buyer Registration details can be found on our
4-H/FFA Market Sale Buyer Information Website:
https://www.montana.edu/extension/gallatin/4hbuyers.html.
2026 4-H/FFA Sale Day Schedule:
- 2:00pm – 6:00pm 4-H/FFA & Market Sale Buyers Check-In (near AgWest Tent)
- 3:00pm – 6:00pm 4-H/FFA Market Sale Buyers BBQ Served (Small Animal Tent).
- 4-H families, to ensure there is enough food for our buyers, please plan to wait until 6:00pm to help yourself to the BBQ.
- 3:45pm 4-H Foundation Scholarship Winners Announced (AgWest Tent)
- 4:00pm – approx. 11:00pm 4-H & FFA Livestock Market Sale (AgWest Tent)
Marketing Information and Resources:
**The office also has a hard copies available if printing isn't an option for you.
Please review these materials yourself so you can help answer questions about the Sale and the general process. Feel free to print these and/or send electronic copies to interested buyers - along with the materials you generate for your project (photo cards, etc.) Encourage potential Buyers to reach out to any member of the Market Livestock Committee (contact information in the Brochure) with additional questions.
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2026 Summer Camp
Registration for the 2026
"Trip to Paradise" 4-H Summer Camp CLOSED as of 5pm on Tuesday, June 30th. If you would like to join the waitlist in the event that a camper has to cancel, please email us at gallatin4h@montana.edu
Thank you to all those that registered - we can't wait to see you at Camp in August! We hope you are ready for an island adventure! Camp Information (packing list, arrival/drop off signups, etc.) will be sent out in mid-July to all registered participants. |
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2026 National 4-H Index Study
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We are excited to offer Montana 4-H members, ages 13-18, an opportunity to use their voice and share their experiences.
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It is the mission of National 4-H Council is
to empower youth in 4-H programs to reach their full potential by working and learning in partnership with caring adults. To assess successes, they are conducting an annual study to measure the impact of 4-H on youth, and we invite your Montana 4-H’er to participate.
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This study is being conducted by 4-H programs across the country and is described in greater detail below. The information gathered will help to guide program delivery, and ensure we are meeting the needs of youth across the state and nation.
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We are working to collect at least 250 completed responses in order to receive Montana-specific data. Reaching this goal allows us to better understand the impact 4-H is having on youth in Montana and strengthens our ability to communicate that impact. Your support in encouraging your child to participate in the 2026 National 4-H Index Survey helps us reach this important goal.
Survey Link: Online Survey Software | Qualtrics Survey Solutions
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Please review the survey information below. If you have any questions, please contact your local 4-H Office, or contact Teri Antilley, teri.antilley@montana.edu or (406) 994-6816.
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Promote 4-H at the Manhattan Potato Festival!
Gallatin County 4-H will have a presence again at the Manhattan Potato Festival on Saturday, August 15th. We are in need of enthusiastic 4-H members, leaders and parents to promote 4-H at this event!
We will have a Gallatin County 4-H float in the parade and a 4-H promotional booth in the park. This is a great way to stay involved in 4-H this summer, show off our 4-H spirit to our community and recruit new members and volunteers for clubs/projects for the upcoming 4-H year!
SIGN UP NOW! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084DA9A92AABFE3-64035745-2026
Event details: Facebook
Parade/Float
- We want both animal and indoor projects highlighted in the parade with use of project banners and members walking/riding with the float holding signs (throwing candy, handing out 4-H stickers, etc.)
- See SignUp Genius link above for dates, times and ways to participate
- **Participating members/parents will have to sign liability waivers from the Potato Festival – once you sign up, I will email you that form to complete.
4-H Promotional Booth
- Commitment would be 10:30am-3pm (there will be 2 shifts)
- Club leaders, experienced members and Extension office staff would be great to have at the booth to answer questions about clubs, activities, projects and the enrollment process for the 2026-2027 4-H year
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Earn Money for your 4-H Project or Club
We have the AMAZING opportunity to continue to work MSU Concessions and this has become a GREAT way to raise money for 4-H club/project activities! Please see the link below for the 2026 Fall Fundraising concessions events at MSU! We frequently commit to events throughout the year as they arise and update the SignUp Genius accordingly.
What does working MSU Concessions entail?
All food is made and prepped by MSU Culinary/Concessions staff, 4-H members/parents just simply sell and serve it out of one of the concessions stands on MSU Campus (Stadium or Fieldhouse depending on the event). This is a super easy, fun and quick way to make money for your Clubs/Projects and gain some skills in the service industry! A Stand Leader and MSU Concessions staff will train you on the spot with what you need to know - No experience necessary!
2026-2027 MSU Concessions Fundraising SignUp:
Fundraising: 4-H Concessions Fundraising Opportunities
If club/project members sign up for an event as a group, your club/project will get ALL the tips and a percentage of the profits from that event. If multiple projects/clubs sign up for the same game, then the tips and profits will be split between the groups. So, we highly encourage you to gather up your members, pick a game/event that your club/project will work as one group to maximize the amount of money you will earn!
Depending on the event, the day/time/hours will vary and depending on our concessions stand location, the number of people we will need per game will vary. We will need a combination of youths (minimum age of 10 with parent accompaniment) and teens/adults (ages 15+) to run cash registers.
If you have any questions, please contact the 4-H Office
gallatin4h@montana.edu
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“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!
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End-of-Year 4-H Awards Celebration for Youth & Volunteers
Our 4-H Awards Celebration is our annual opportunity to celebrate 4-H volunteers and youth members! We have an afternoon planned to recognize volunteers who have done some outstanding work and who have been a part of the program for years! We will also celebrate youth who excelled in their projects this year and did an outstanding job being a part of the community.
This year's program will boast a new dessert, photo backdrop/booth, chance to win door prizes, and an evening of awards!
The
2026 Awards Celebration will be held at the Bozeman Grantree Inn on SUNDAY, September 20th at 2pm.
RSVP COMING SOON
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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)
JULY 1-8 Pick-Up Record Books at 4-H Office - check for corrections/feedback
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 15 ALL Exhibitors/Families MUST be wearing their Green 4-H Wristbands to enter the Fair
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 4-H Senior Recognition Ceremony (at Fair under AgWest Tent at 2pm)
JULY 18 Exhibitor Photo - Pastries & Pictures (at Fair under the AgWest Tent at 2:30pm)
JULY 18 4-H Family Fun Night Dance (at Fair under AgWest Tent at 6pm)
JULY 19 Barn Clean-Up & Load-Out Day (see Fair Schedule)
JULY 20 Indoor Exhibit Pick-Up (10am-12pm Exhibit Building #3)
JULY 23 Newsletter Blurbs DUE
See July Committee, Club and Project updates in sections below.
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
SEPTEMBER 4 Nominated Record Books DUE to 4-H Office
SEPTEMBER 4 Achievement Journals DUE to 4-H Office (see post above)
SEPTEMBER 6 MSU Concessions Fundraiser (Bobcat Football game)
SEPTEMBER 10-13 Montana 4-H State Horse Show
SEPTEMBER 18-20 Montana 4-H State Working Ranch Horse Show
SEPTEMBER 19 MSU Concessions Fundraiser (Bobcat Football game)
SEPTEMBER 20 Gallatin County 4-H End-of-Year Awards Celebration
SEPTEMBER 26 MSU Concessions Fundraiser (Bobcat Football game)
OCTOBER 1 Gallatin County 4-H 2026-2027 Enrollment OPENS
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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 June 6th at the extension office. 4-H office and volunteers have been busy. A few of the highlights include:
- Upcoming Fair Registration deadlines and project interview requirements
- Youth reports from shooting sports promotional activities
- Upcoming fundraising opportunities
The committee discussed:
- A stipend of $95 per registrant for 4-H Congress to help attendees offset registration 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.
- September Awards Celebrations night plans are in the works, including photo backdrops, dessert and prizes.
- Getting more volunteers to sign up for the fair indoor promotion booth. This is a great opportunity for 4-H kids who are only in indoor projects to help out.
- Fundraising & Service opportunity with the Bozeman Stampede coming up August 6-10. Shift sign ups will be sent out to leaders.
- Fundraising committee discussed the need for another MSU concessions shift leader training and a revised checkout sheet for stand leaders.
Important 4-H dates to note coming up:
- Big Sky Country State fair- July 10-19
- See the centralized MSU Gallatin County extension webpage for all info and updates related to the fair!
ULC meets the first Tuesday of every month, with our next meeting on
June 30 2026 (July Meeting) at the Gallatin County Extension Office @ 6:00pm. No meeting in July or August.
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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, July 14th at 8:30pm at the Extension Office (during Fair Week) |
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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:
- Thursday, August 27, 2026
- October/November 2026 – plans TBD
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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!
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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
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Hyalite Hawks Club
Meetings take place the second Wednesday of each month at Anderson School at 3:30pm.
Questions? Contact Kirsten Drake at
(406) 945-2290 or kdrakem@gmail.com
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Four Corners/Gallatin Gateway Area Clubs |
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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
The Gallatin Gateway Challengers met on the 22nd of June for our monthly meeting. We began at 7:02 and adjourned at 8:39 Upcoming dates: The Gallatin Gateway Birthday Bash
is on Saturday, August
29. The club will have a booth there, stop by and help support our club! Reminder: the next and final club meeting is in September 14 @ the Community Center. Make sure that your record books are in and be ready for interviews and fair time!
- Submitted by Decker Trainor
Questions? Contact Jessica at 406-539-0940 or theblacksmail@gmail.com.
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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.
We wrapped up our June meeting with some community service- pulling weeds and cleaning up the grounds and flower beds around Divine Mercy Academy, in appreciation for the use of their cafeteria all year for our monthly meetings!
We had a successful Annual Succulent Sale as well- thank you to all families who participated! This is our main fundraiser, and it was a hit, as usual. This year was made even more spectacular with the help of a generous donor for our succulents! Our club is so thankful!
Good luck to all our members heading to fair in the upcoming weeks!
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
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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
For any questions, please contact Cassie Smieja: smiejahay@latmt.com
406-539-3833
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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.
We will not meet over summer. Our First official meeting for the 2027 4h year will be OCTOBER 12TH, 6-8PM. We will be doing nominations for our parliament and possibly voting in members if time allows.
The Bozeman Stampede is August 6-10, Please watch for the sign ups and help with the clean up day the best that you can. It would be great to have many members of the club help on the clean up day.
August 15th is the Manhattan Potato Festival.
Have a great summer!
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.
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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
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Gallatin Valley Livestock Club
Contact leader for meeting dates, times and locations.
If you have questions, please contact
Jeff Sposito jffsposito9@gmail.com
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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
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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
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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
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2025-2026 4-H Projects
(Categorized by "Indoor Projects" or "Animal Projects", then listed alphabetically) |
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AMBASSADORS / TEEN LEADERSHIP
Hello Teen Leaders & Ambassadors🍀
Teen Leadership Project Meetings:
- August Meeting: Monday, August 17th at 6:30pm - 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
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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.
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BAKING PROJECT
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
Reminder:
If you are signed up to exhibit at fair, PLEASE read through the baking section of the fair book so you know what the guidelines are.
Project Leaders (Baking is our bread and butter!):
Erin Neil
Katie Taylor
Krista Pancich |
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CAKE DECORATING PROJECT *new leader in 2025-2026!
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
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CAMP COUNSELOR PROJECT
Hello Camp Counselors!
Our Camp is right around the corner! Counselors need to arrive at 3pm on SATURDAY, August 1st at Yellowstone Alliance Adventure. We will move into the cabins, decorate, sort supplies and run through skits. Youth Campers then arrive on Sunday, August 2nd starting at 9:30am. Everyone checks out on Wednesday, August 5th starting at 11am (counselors stay a little longer to ensure camp is clean and nothing is left behind).
Review the Schedule (attached) & take note of:
- Survivor Games – what station you are leading (capture the totem pole, shoe relay race, hungry hippos, island escape, tug-a-war)
- What day(s) your workshops will be held and how many rotations you’ll be teaching it
- If your cabin is assigned a Flag Ceremony shift
- We will be working over the next month to assign youth campers to cabins and workshop groups – stay tuned!
REMINDERS: Upcoming Committee Meetings
- Design/Marketing/Registration Committee to heat press ALL camp shirts & assemble all nametags = Thursday, July 23rd @ 6pm at the 4-H Office
- Fundraising/Budget Committee = solidify the cabin point values and will be responsible for writing Thank You notes to all our Camp Sponsors while we are at Camp
- E-Board meeting = TBD – stay tuned
2026 Cabin Partners: Each counselor will receive a colored t-shirt in their respective cabin color with “Camp Counselor” and 4-H Clover printed across the chest to wear on camp check-in day to be easily identifiable by their youth campers as they get to know you. Connect with your cabin partners to plan decorations, responsibilities, etc.
- Matt, David, Kallen = Hot Pink Cabin (8-9 yr old boys)
- Sean & Bob = Dark Green Cabin (10-11 yr old boys)
- Wyatt & Tom = Dark Blue Cabin (12-13 yr old boys)
- Mattie & Moriah = Light Blue Cabin (8-9 yr old girls)
- Kryka & Keeley = White Cabin (9 yr old girls)
- Cami & Kylee = Orange Cabin (10 yr old girls)
- Maggie & Dagny = Yellow Cabin (10-11 yr old girls)
- Makinzey & Emma = Dark Purple Cabin (11 yr old girls)
- Keira & Naomi = Light Purple Cabin (11 yr old girls)
- Aspen & Micky = Red Cabin (12-13 yr old girls)
If you need to order any more supplies, want to schedule a time to come to the office to work on your workshop or sort through your supply bin, or if you have any other questions, please email molly.yurdana@montana.edu or
TEXT Molly at (530) 613-9908.
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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.
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
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COOKING PROJECT *new leader in 2025-2026!
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
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HORSELESS HORSE PROJECT
Thanks for a great year in Horseless Horse!
Questions? Contact leader Sarah Capp at (406) 539-4386 or scapp9999@hotmail.com
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KNITTING/CROCHET PROJECTS
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
We had a little end of year meeting in June with only a few attendees; folks must already be busy with summer! We had fun with two kids working on their Fair projects and another working on a finger crocheted clover and chatting about plans for summer. Everyone showed their current nearly completed projects and talked about them, which was super fun!
We only have a few kids from the group entering projects in Fair, and that's ok. It was a great year and here is a wrap up of it:
November: Set our goals for the year and got to know one another. Began knitting and crocheting!
December: Crocheted and knitted Christmas trees, snowflakes and little hats.
January: Crocheted and knitted Valentine hearts and made them into magnetic name tags.
February: Took our Valentine hearts and a personalized Valentine card to the residents in Memory Care at the Springs for our community project. The residents loved the hearts and cards and enjoyed visiting with the 4-Hers!
March-June: Began working on our Fair or "big" home projects and continued to learn new skills. Everyone was able to take home beautiful yarn for free, thanks to all of the generous donations! 💖
This year, we had one brand new crocheter and one brand new knitter and you should see the things they are creating now! All of the rest of our experienced crocheters continued to learn new stitches, how to read patterns and create beautiful projects!
We hope to see everyone at Fair and be sure to stop by the Knitting & Crocheting table to see what your project mates entered.
Kate and Phyllis will be at the Promotion Booth on Wednesday, July 15th from 2:00-4:00 and Kim on Friday, July 17th from 11:45-2:00. We will be giving out crocheted clover keychains so stop by and say hello! 🍀
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
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LEATHERCRAFT PROJECT
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
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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
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PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
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
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QUILTING PROJECT
Project Notes: Youth members must be at least 10 years old (age as of Oct. 1st) to participate.
If you have questions, please call or text me at 406.581.6843.
Ginny Francis, Quilting Project Leader
ginnyfrancis@yahoo.com
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SEWING PROJECT
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
We are so excited to see all your amazing sewing creations at Fair! We will not be meeting in July, but if you have any questions or run into challenges as you finish sewing your items, please let one of us know and we will help.
A few final steps to prepare for fair:
- The extension office will contact you when your sewing project records have been scored and signed by the sewing leaders and are ready for you to pick up. Be sure to get your exhibit tags for each item being entered in the fair when you pick up your record book. Also get your fair entry 4-H exhibitor wrist band.
- Bring your complete 4-H record book (My 4-H Year and all project records in one binder) to your scheduled interview time slot on Sunday, along with all sewing items, with exhibit tags attached. Be ready to talk about all the cool sewing skills you learned this year!!
- Please sign up for a Promotion Booth shift!
Thank you all for always being ready to learn and letting your creativity shine through the fun things you made this year!
Laura - howdy@revivallclothing.com
Toni - trberger1@gmail.com
Kim - kimhackl@gmail.com
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Hello Beef Families - we have some pre-fair announcements that we'd like to ask for your attention to / participation in.
The Beef Project Fundraiser for Bozeman Stampede (usually after the fair) is Monday July 6th & Tuesday July 7th. We are helping them give their banner boards a face lift before the rodeo by pulling the vinyl banners off --> washing them --> repainting the boards --> putting the vinyls back on the boards. This entire process will take two nights so the paint we apply to the boards has time to dry before we re-apply the vinyls. The signup below is for Parents and Members to commit to helping so we can get the project done. Bozeman Stampede in year's past has paid up to $20 / person hour so it's a very good use of our time and helps them out a TON!
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C084DA9A92AABFE3-64613212-2026
The committee will finish reviewing Record Books tomorrow (Monday July 29th) and notify the group when they are ready to pick up.
After that time we will relay all fair-specific information.
In the meantime:
- get your Marketing plans finalized and start executing them.
- confirm your possession of Brand Inspections (including Buddy steers) as they cannot go to our processors without one.
- prepare for your Pre-Fair Interviews July 9th or 10th (signups required through the office) and your Beef Test (Monday of fair) by using the attached Study Guide.
- Save the Date for a pre-fair Livestock Work Day on Saturday July 11th @ 9am where members from all species will help finish setting up the livestock area, including the ring, animal pens and there will be some beef-barn specific tasks. If you can help with this, there is no signup but all help is welcomed!
LASTLY we're seeking sources for this years' Bred & Fed Sponsorships. Each year we offer a Class: Gallatin County Bred & Fed; which is open to any market steer or market heifer “bred, born and raised to finish” in Gallatin County. All sponsorship money collected is paid out in cash awards, divided among Live Show winners and Carcass winners (
must enter the ultrasound carcass contest). If you know of any connection to this local market (breeder, business, family or individual) that would be interested in sponsoring this years' contest please forward them the information above and ask that they reach out to us via this email or to Kelly via text / phone (406) 600-1016 by 7/8/26. They will appear on our list of sponsors in the beef barn during the fair!
Please reach out if you have any questions.
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 |
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CAT PROJECT
I have not heard about donations for our auction "Cat Basket" for the fair except for one family. If every cat project family can donate at least one thing... they don't have to come from your family, but asking community members and businesses for donations is a great way to get some great items to add as well.
We bought a heavy duty Igloo cooler from Costco to donate as the "basket" to fill for fun MSU "Cats" sports tailgating etc. We have gotten donations from Rib & Chop House (gift card), Costco (gift card), and Montana Silversmiths (4-H pendant and buckle, and cute earrings) so far. This is it though... we can really use some help filling the cooler with tee-shirts and other "Cat" swag, BBQ stuff (seasonings, utensils, meat?), or other creative ideas! Please have something to donate by July 10th, and let me know so I can arrange to meet up with you to pick it up! Thank you!
Julie Oghigian DVM CVA
Cell (text is good too)- 714-206-4636
Alpenglow Veterinary Services, Inc
Montview Labradors www.montviewlabradors.com
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DAIRY COW PROJECT
Questions? Contact leaders:
Shawna Oostema (406) 580-7819
Cassie Smieja (406) 539-3833.
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DOG OBEDIENCE & AGILITY PROJECTS *new leader in 2025-2026!
**This Project is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
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DAIRY GOAT PROJECT
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
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MEAT GOAT PROJECT
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
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HORSE PROJECTS
Hi Horse Members!
June was a busy month with Prefair Clinic, WRH and Colt Cattle Clinic, and an English and Western Clinic with Judge Michelle Tucker. The English, Jumping and Dressage kids also fine tuned their Jumping and Dressage in a 3 day overnight camp that included stick horses and campfire stories! We are excited to see everyone and continue to make great memories with everyone at the fair! 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!
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:
- Sign up for Interview!!Bring your completed record book with you to your interview. You can pick up your scored record book after beginning July 2nd. Interview Sign ups and info
- Prepare for Fair Contest: Does your child need a little motivation and guidance to prepare? Have them print off this checklist and complete the activities to compete for the most points. Whoever wins gets cool prizes! Print here
- MAKE SURE YOU HAVE GIVEN A SPRING VACCINATIONS TO YOUR HORSE AND UPLOADED DOCUMENTATION (Must be Given between Feb 1-June 15) 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 submitted your spring vaccinations, 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
- Practice your Patterns: Patterns are made available to 4H members before the show because we want you to have plenty of time to practice and ask questions. Please note that there have been several changes made in patterns (Especially English Jumping and trail) since they were first published so please reprint and also double check patterns the day of fair for any final changes.
- 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.
- Wondering about if your bit is legal for show? Check out the new bit guide for assistance! Bit Guide
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POULTRY PROJECT - Market or Breed/Show
**This Project (Market AND Breed/Show) is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
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RABBIT PROJECT - Market or Breed/Pet
Up Next:
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)
Questions?
Monica Samson 406-399-1866
Jim Murphy 406-946-2522
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SHEEP PROJECT
**This Project (Market AND Breeding) is FULL and is no longer taking new enrollments.
We made it to fair Month!
Keep watch for the pre-fair email and band app with details on fair week!
Some highlights are:
- Sheep check in Monday, 7/13 6-8pm
- Have your vet check form all filled in before your turn to talk with the vet. For any medication given to your lambs look for the withdrawal period and keep in mind these lambs will be going to the processor and we want to sell the best meat possible to our buyers. If you have questions on what meds can be given this close to fair please ask.
- Do not unload your sheep until the vet has signed off. This process takes a while. Our vet is amazing and needs time to look at each lamb. Have patients, please we will get everyone checked in.
- Sheep MUST be slicked sheared before vet check in
- Information posters are due at check in Monday, 7/13
- Name and date on back of poster, you can not use poster from previous year
- MANDATORY Sheep Exhibitor Meeting Tuesday, 7/14 at 8am
- Sheep market show Tuesday 7/14 at 6pm
- Sheep showmanship Thursday 7/16 8am
- Sale night Friday 7/17 starting at 4pm
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
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SWINE PROJECT
Future Dates: Mark your calendars! Details Below
*July 6th - Swine Project Pre-Fair BBQ @ the Fairgrounds
*July 9/10 - Interviews - you received an email from the 4H office for this sign up
*July 11th (9am-2pm) - Swine Barn Work Day!
*July 11th - Walk-Through for New Members/Families 1:00pm
*July 13th - Fair Check In For Swine 9-12pm. See the registration email from 4H office for a full schedule of shows for the week. (Pigs are in PINK)
🟢JULY 6
PreFair BBQ and Swine Meeting 🍔
Monday July 6th @ 6:00pm at Building #4 on the Fairgrounds.
The committee will provide pork, rolls and beverages but please bring a side dish, salad and/or dessert to share!
To ensure a variety, a
s a guide: Last Names A-M bring a Dessert; N-Z please bring a Side Dish (salad, veggies, fruit).
This has always been a Mandatory Event so we can relay all of the details of the fair!
Sign Up Here
Please RSVP to be sure we have enough grub (yes, parents/siblings/families welcomed) and be sure to let us know if you CANNOT ATTEND too.
What to expect from this meeting: we will provide lots of information, walk through the weeks' schedule, give copies of the Vet Check Forms and answer any questions you may have. We will have signups and information for
Show/Sale Help Sign Up
Barn Duty Sign Up
Wash Rack Sign -Up
🤠 Show Shirt Exchange: If any of you have extra show shirts please bring them for this BBQ Night. Please only bring shirts, pants and boots that you are willing to give away, so all items there will be available for the taking. White long sleeve collared button down shirts for Showmanship and colorful western style shirts for market show, must have collar, and sleeved (no sleeveless).
🟢JULY 11
🔨Work Day: time to set up the swine area for the fair! Join us at the fairgrounds.
*July 11th - 9am-2pm- Swine Barn Work Days at the Fairgrounds
Sign up here :
🚜 SWINE BARN NEW MEMBER WALK-THROUGH
* Sunday, July 11th New Members/Families are encouraged to come at 1PM for a walk through of drop off procedures and an overview of how the week will go, without the craziness of a full barn of pigs and kids.
🟢Fair Passes -Discounted 4-H Youth Exhibitor Wristbands & 4-H Adult Week Passes - Available at the 4-H Extension Office and will continue to be sold through July 10th. 4-H Prices are listed below:(cash, check or card accepted)
- 4-H Youth (exhibiting at fair) Week Wristbands = FREE (youth exhibitors will receive a green 4-H wristband to wear during fair week)
- 4-H Adult Week Wristbands = $25 each (immediate 4-H family members that will be at fair for the entire week will receive a green 4-H wristband to wear during fair week)
- Additional Youth (not exhibiting at fair) Week Wristband = $15 each
- Day-Passes for friends and extended family (grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins, etc.) that come to support you during fair and Carnival Wristbands will be available for separate purchase through the Fairgrounds Website: Gallatin County Fairgrounds Tickets (etix.com)
🟢Parking - The Fairgrounds is very limited on parking during Fair, so please be mindful of the following policies:
2026 Policies:
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ALL exhibitors and spectators will need to park in the free general public lots, Tamarack (Gate A) and Oak St (Gate B). Both can be used to come in for shows, loading in supplies and such. The Tamarack Lot (Gate A) will be the one opening at 7am for early morning access and closer proximity to the showrings.
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ALL 4-H/FFA families will receive a FREE "Fast Pass" drop-off pass (Yellow Pass below) for use at West Oak (Gate C) when needed. This pass allows drive-in access to the livestock barns (i.e. to drop off supplies, feed, etc). These passes only allow up to 2-hour parking/access to those areas until 10am when the gates close and the Fair opens to the public at 11am each day. Vehicles that are not moved out of the gated area by 10am will be towed.
🟢Swine Shirts : Fun element for our swine kids and a fundraiser for our swine project. Here is the link to the Google order form https://forms.gle/4x8fsVwAj2AshmTN8 If you do not have a google account, call Sarah to order. Must place order by June 29th. Payment will be collected by Sarah Bailey, do not take to the office. Checks should be made out to Gallatin County 4-H and put 'swine fundraiser' in the memo line. Call or text Sarah with questions. 406-600-2545
🟢Buddy Pigs -
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.
2026 Swine Scale Schedule
🟢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
Questions? Contact the Swine Committee at gallatinswineproject@gmail.com
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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
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Gallatin County MSU Extension Office | 903 North Black Ave | Bozeman, MT 59715
(406) 582-3280
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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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