Example Article for Broadwater County Extension Agent
Support 4-h At The County Fair
 | Author:
Allison Kosto, MSU Broadwater County Extension Agent
MSU Broadwater County Extension Agent |
Support 4-H at the County Fair
Allison Kosto
MSU Broadwater County Extension Agent
Fairs have a rich tradition worldwide, dating back to ancient times when they were a religious celebration as well as a place for commerce, trade, festivals and feasts. North America’s first Fair was in 1765 in Nova Scotia. By the 1800s, agriculture began playing a central role in Fairs in the United States. In the early 1900s, 4-H began and used Fairs as a way for youth to showcase agricultural advancements and new skills.
Contrary to popular belief, Fair is not a requirement for youth to participate in 4-H. However, it is a valued opportunity for youth to be recognized for their hard work and demonstrate what they’ve learned throughout the year. The Broadwater County Fair is August 5-10 and there are many ways you can support local 4-H youth.
Livestock Exhibits & Shows
Stroll through the Livestock Barn to see animals the youth have been caring for and working with throughout the year. Don’t hesitate to ask 4-H members about their animals; they love to share! However, we ask that you don’t touch the animals without getting permission from the owners.
If you want an in-depth look at the 4-H Livestock projects, then come enjoy a show. Here is a quick show schedule:
• Tuesday, August 5: Horse Show (1:00 pm) and Dog Show (6:30 pm)
• Thursday, August 7: Cat, Pocket Pet and Poultry Show (2:00 pm)
• Friday, August 8 – Hog Show (8:00 am), Rabbit Show (11:00 am) and Sheep & Goat Show (2:00 pm)
• Saturday, August 9 – Beef Show (8:00 am)
Indoor Exhibits & Silent Auction
Next, head to the 4-H Building to browse the 4-H indoor exhibits featuring 4-H member-created educational displays, crafts, foods and much more. Some members offer usable items in the Indoor Silent Auction. Feel free to place a bid! The 4-H Indoor Silent Auction closes on Sunday at 3:30 pm. Proceeds go back to the member.
Don’t miss a special showcase on Friday at 6:00 pm under the entertainment tent featuring a 4-H/STOKE Robotics Demonstration. This exciting partnership teaches youth science, engineering and programming through hands-on robotics.
Livestock Sale
On Saturday, support youth through the 4-H and FFA Livestock Sale. The buyer’s dinner starts at 3:00 pm with announcements at 3:30 pm and the sale at 4:00 pm. The purpose of the sale is for 4-H youth to gain real-life marketing experience with their projects by auctioning them off as a finished product. There will be beef, hogs, lambs, meat goats, meat birds and meat rabbits in the sale. Animals can be purchased for meat or resold to a prearranged resale buyer. If you are interested, be sure to register as a bidder! Many youth use their profits to fund higher education.
Thank you for supporting and cheering on 4-H youth at the Fair! For more information about 4-H, contact MSU Extension in Broadwater County at 406-266-9242 or broadwater@montana.edu. 4-H is the youth development program of Montana State University Extension.
