Friday Forecast 2/9/2024
Dakota County 4-H Weekly Newsletter
Welcome to the Dakota County 4-H Friday Forecast
This weekly newsletter will provide you with the most up-to-date information and happenings in the 4-H program.
Time is running out! FREE Dakota County 4-H limited-edition t-shirt when you pay dues by Feb. 15
Dakota County 4-H staff are looking forward to offering camps, workshops, and events in the coming months. There is no better time to re-enroll and submit your dues than right now as staff are offering a FREE limited-edition Dakota County 4-H t-shirt to 4-H members. To be eligible, members must have completed their 4-H Online re-enrollment and submitted dues to the Dakota County Extension office by February 15. 4-H county membership dues of $25/member are paid every year.
Complete the Family Member Dues Payment Form 2023-24 with t-shirt sizes and send with payment by Feb. 15 to order your FREE t-shirt. Shirts will be available mid to late April. Contact Cherie if you are unsure if you paid your dues for the 2023-24 4-H year.
If you already paid member dues, you were sent an email with a link to order the free t-shirt.
Dues payments can be mailed to the Extension Office or placed in the drop box between the front doors of the Extension Office. Scholarships are available to cover dues if needed and can be requested by completing the dues payment form. Some clubs also collect dues to fund community creating activities and projects. Families should pay club dues at monthly meetings.
Black History Month
Explore the UMN website celebrating Black History month at Where it starts. This site features individuals and communities who continue to make Black history at the University of Minnesota and beyond, change starts wherever the powers of creativity, vision, and joy meet.
4-H Enrollment
Members must re-enroll in 4-H Online every year
Each year, 4-H families need to show your family's intent to participate by logging in to 4-H Online and re-enrolling. Club and projects do not carry-over from last year. You will only receive email communication for projects you have signed up for so review your project list to be sure you didn't miss a project.
Log into 4-H Online to re-enroll and to review, update and submit the following information:
- Family contact and demographic information, including club, school and grade.
- Each family member's health and emergency contact information.
- Project areas of interest for the new 4-H year.
- Parental consent required for youth participating in shooting spots/wildlife programs.
See the 4-H Online enrollment guide for step-by-step instructions.
If you have questions or would like to opt-out of 4-H, please email Cherie.
Animal Science Updates
Market beef project details: IDs due in 4-H Online by Feb. 15
All 4-H market animals must be tagged with an official MN 4-H ear tag by the statewide market beef ID deadline of Feb. 15. This is a firm deadline with consequences if missed. A market beef animal is considered beef steer, market heifer and dairy steer born between Jan.1-Aug. 31, 2023.
To show in a registered class at the county and state fairs, your animal must have registration papers from that breed association. Registration papers are to be uploaded in 4-H Online when identifying your animals.
To do list:
1. Request and pick-up official MN 4-H ear tags from the Dakota County Extension office.
2. Tag market beef with official MN 4-H ear tag no later than Feb. 15. ALL market beef must have an official MN 4-H ear tag, even registered animals. Registered animals are also required to have a permanent tattoo in addition to the 4-H ear tag.
3. Enter animal ID information in 4-H Online. This include uploading registration papers for animals showing in registered classes. Animal information must be entered by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 15. 4-H Online locks down after that and you will not be able to enter animal ID information.
Animals not entered by Feb. 15 will be considered a late ID and will not be eligible for awards higher than a blue ribbon, the livestock auction or the MN State Fair.
Animal ID'ing in 4-H Online user guide
Market Beef Ear Tag Order Form.
Minnesota 4-H AnSci Updates for 2024
If you have questions about the 4-H beef project, contact Jessica at reed0324@umn.edu.
Cleary Lake Veterinary Hospital Tour - March 18; register by March 4
This workshop open to youth grade 3 and older is an opportunity to learn about basic horse care. Have you ever de-wormed a horse? Given your equine oral meds or vaccinations? Are you familiar with TPR, body condition or how to put a bandage on? The veterinary staff at Cleary Lake Veterinary Hospital in Prior Lake are going to share basic horse health care.
Workshop is Monday, March 18; 3:50-6 p.m. in Prior Lake. While the staff will be concentrating their instruction on horses, this seminar is open to youth in the horse, horseless horse, veterinary science, ag, and livestock projects. Adult family members are encouraged to attend alongside the youth.
Cost is $5. All money collected will be donated to the GRG Horse Rescue and Sanctuary. Please register by March 4 in 4-HOnline.
Contact Kirsten Pederson at kapeders@umn.edu if you have questions.
LQA&E Training - June 21
Mark your calendars for the 2024 Livestock Quality Assurance and Ethics training (LQA&E). Training will be held on Friday, June 21 from 8:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Dee Brother LLC in Farmington, MN. More information to come.
LQA&E training is required for any youth 6th grade and above that would take a state fair trip. It is required for youth exhibiting dairy, beef, sheep, swine, goats, llama, rabbit and poultry to complete this course every three years.
If you are unable to attend the in-person training on June 21 you have the option of completing the YQCA online training, good for one year, or attending a training hosted by another county.
All LQA&E training needs to be completed by July 26 to be eligible to accept a MN 4-H state fair livestock trip, if given the opportunity.
Contact Jessica Beissel if you have questions at reed0324@umn.edu.
College and Needs Based Scholarship Information
Federation provides scholarships
The Dakota County 4-H Federation supports offering scholarships for enrolled 4-H members in their individual path through 4-H. There are scholarships available for local, regional, state and national programs and events. The guidelines have recently been updated, based on the most recent annual budget approval. Families are encouraged to use this confidential Google form to request event funds at any time. We don’t want cost to be a barrier to youth participation.
College scholarships available to high school seniors; applications due March 15
Dakota County 4-H members who are high school seniors that will be graduating in 2024 and will be attending an accredited college, university, community college, or technical college during the fall 2024 quarter/semester are eligible to apply for the following college scholarships. Review each scholarship application for specific application requirements.
Scholarships are open to ALL enrolled Dakota County 4-H members; not limited to 4-H members involved in animal science projects.
4-H Livestock Auction Scholarship applications
Jacque Devney Memorial Scholarship application
Contact Jess Beissel with any questions at reed0324@umn.edu.
Multiple 2024 Minnesota 4-H college scholarships available
Extension development and Minnesota 4-H offer several scholarships for college-bound 4-H youth, as well as a workforce training scholarship for an adult 4-H alumni or volunteer. Over $20,000 is awarded annually through a competitive application process. Minnesota 4-H scholarship online applications are now available. Applications require two letters of recommendation, with one being from an Extension educator. Review each application for specific details on eligibility and application deadlines.
Events and Workshops
Register for events and workshops in 4-H Online
Registration for most 4-H workshops and events is done in 4-H Online. The 4-H Online event registration guide has step-by-step instructions to walk you through how to register. To register for an event in 4-H Online, the participant must be an active member in 4-H Online. If you are new to 4-H, please select the “Virtual 4-H” or “In Person Camp/Dakota County Event” club for your county. In the projects field, choose projects of interest. Please contact Cherie if you have questions.
**Note regarding registration. You will only be able to register for an event in 4-H Online after your 4-H Online enrollment has been approved by staff. You will receive an email when your 4-H enrollment has been approved and then you will be able to register for the event in 4-H Online. Keep in mind that 4-H enrollments are not approved after hours or on the weekend.
4-H Quilted Hot Air Balloon Sewing workshop - Feb. 17; register by Feb. 9
Participants will sew a small quilt top featuring a tri-colored hot air balloon. This intermediate workshop is open to youth grade 5 and older that have sewn before. Helpers will be needed for anyone who cannot work on this project independently. Instructor is Mary Lemke. A limited number of sewing machines are available to borrow if needed. Bring your working sewing machine, with neutral thread and bobbins ready to go. A part two session may be added to this workshop if participants need additional time to complete their project. Space is limited. Fabric choice selected during registration.
Workshop is Saturday, Feb. 17, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center in Farmington. Cost is $5 and includes a pre-cut fabric kit.
Registration due Friday, Feb. 9 in 4-H Online by the deadline. The 4-H Online event registration guide will walk you through how to register. If you are new to 4-H, please select the “Virtual 4-H” or “In Person Camp/Event” club for your county. In the projects field, choose the project your primary focus is on and any other project areas you have an interest in. Contact Cherie if you have questions.
Learn to Paint with Watercolors workshop - Feb. 17; register by Feb. 13
Painting with watercolors is taking the internet by storm. Youth 3rd grade and up wanting to learn the fundamentals of this medium and take home paints and paper to practice with are encouraged to register for “Learn to Paint with Watercolors.” This class will be taught by Ayesha Iqbal, a new Dakota County 4-H volunteer, who’s eager to share her love for painting with others.
Workshop is Saturday, Feb. 17, 1:30-3:30 p.m. at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center in Farmington.
Cost is $5. Space is limited; send payment to secure spot. Register in 4-H Online under Events by Feb. 13.
Contact Kris at kvatter@umn.edu with questions.
Virtual Cake Decorating Series: two more classes - Feb. 15 & 22
Join us on Thursdays in February for virtual project learning in Cake Decorating! Participants will learn a variety of cake-decorating techniques through hands-on learning. The next two classes feature Scottish Highland Cow cupcakes and royal icing cookies.
Workshop is Thursdays, February 15, and 22, 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Virtual (zoom info will be sent) Supply list will be sent out to registrants.
Cost is $10 per family, plus additional cost of supplies (estimated $15) Please contact your local extension educator if you need help purchasing the kit. Checks for $10 per family should be made out to Benton County 4-H and sent to PO BOX 650 Foley, MN 56329. Register in 4HOnline under EVENTS.
Contact Kris Vatter, kvatter@umn.edu, with questions.
4-H Cloverbud & Sprouts Riveting workshop - Thursday, Feb. 22; register by Feb. 16
Back by popular demand! If you missed our January event, join us on Thursday, February 22. Workshop activities will be repeated from the January 27 event. Cloverbud (grade K-2) and Sprout (grade 3-5) workshops are fun-filled hands-on workshops where youth will meet new friends, learn new skills, participate in engaging activities and create exciting projects!
On Feb. 22 at this rivet-themed workshop, youth will make a homemade book and participate in other hands-on activities. Workshops are fun-filled events led by the Dakota County 4-H Ambassador team. Workshops feature age-appropriate programs focusing on fun, safe, non-competitive activities meant to engage youth and create new friendships.
Workshop is Thursday, Feb. 22, 6:00-7:15 p.m. at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center in Farmington. Registration due Feb. 16 to allow staff and the ambassador team enough time to secure and prepare workshop supplies.
Registration due Friday, Feb. 16 in 4-H Online. The 4-H Online event registration guide will walk you through how to register. If you are new to 4-H, please select the “Virtual 4-H” or “In Person Camp/Event” club for your county. In the projects field, choose the project your primary focus is on and any other project areas you have an interest in. Contact Cherie if you have questions.
Contact Rachel at reza0027@umn.edu if you have questions.
Get Frosted - Cake Celebration - Feb. 24; register by Feb. 19
“Get Frosted”- Cake Celebration workshop is a fun event that will be both in-person and feature a live feed from the other locations. This event is based loosely on the Netflix series “Nailed It”. The day will include learning interesting techniques from local bakery professionals, participating in decorating challenges, and learning about how to present your masterpiece at county fair.
Workshop is for youth grades 3 and up.
Youth will be provided with cake and the supplies needed to complete the challenge on-site and will take their creations home at the end of the challenge! Sponsored by Benton, Carver, Dakota & Scott, youth will be hands-on in their home county, with a live feed with youth from the other locations! There will be prizes & giveaways.
Workshop is Saturday, Feb. 24, 9 a.m.- Noon at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center in Farmington.
Cost: $20 per participant. Register by February 19 in 4HOnline under EVENTS.
Questions can be directed to Kris Vatter, kvatter@umn.edu.
Build it, Play it: Game workshop - Feb. 24; register by Feb. 20
In this workshop, youth grade 3 and up will have the opportunity to get creative and invent a brand new game, then challenge friends and family over pizza. Youth will explore what makes a game fun before creating their very own game from scratch.
Workshop is Saturday, Feb. 24, 9 a..m.-1:30 p.m. at the Dakota County Extension & Conservation Center in Farmington. Pizza will be delivered at noon, when families are invited to return and play the new inventions. This event is available to all enrolled members and may appeal to those in STEM and Engineering Design projects.
Cost is $5. Registration is due Feb. 20 in 4-H Online.
Questions can be directed to Kris Vatter, kvatter@umn.edu.
Improv Fundamentals workshop - March 2; register by Feb. 26
Youth grades 8 and up are invited to this exciting workshop to learn beginner improvisation in theater. This class will offer introductory performance tools for the beginner improviser. We will practice Improv fundamentals that showcase how to take space for yourself, give space to your classmates and scene partners, chase joy, and trust yourself and others. This class is for both those who want to perform and those who just want to play. No prior experience is required. Instructor Michael Rogers is an improv educator and performer who's taught on dozens of stages nationwide.
Workshop is Saturday, March 2; 10 a.m.-Noon at the Dakota Extension and Conservation Center in Farmington.
Cost is $5. Register by Feb. 26 in 4-H Online.
Contact Kris Vatter at kvatter@umn.edu.
4-H Cloverbud & Sprout Pizza My Heart workshop- March 16; register by March 8
Who doesn’t love pizza? Join the ambassador team in a yummy, hands-on pizza-themed workshop. Cloverbud (grade K-2) and Sprout (grade 3-5) workshops are fun-filled workshops where youth will meet new friends, learn new skills, participate in engaging activities and create exciting projects! Youth will make a homemade take and bake mini pizza and participate in other hands-on activities. Workshops are fun-filled events led by the Dakota County 4-H Ambassador team. Workshops feature age-appropriate programs focusing on fun, safe, non-competitive activities meant to engage youth and create new friendships.
Workshop is Sat., March 16, 9-11 a.m. at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center in Farmington. Registration due March 8 to allow staff and the ambassador team enough time to secure and prepare workshop supplies.
Registration due Friday, March 8 in 4-H Online. The 4-H Online event registration guide will walk you through how to register. If you are new to 4-H, please select the “Virtual 4-H” or “In Person Camp/Event” club for your county. In the projects field, choose the project your primary focus is on and any other project areas you have an interest in. Contact Cherie if you have questions on 4-H Online.
Contact Rachel at reza0027@umn.edu if you have questions regarding the workshop.
2023-24 Cloverbud and Sprouts workshop dates
Join the fun at the FREE Cloverbud and Sprouts workshops! The University of Minnesota Extension 4-H Cloverbud (K-2) and Sprouts (3-5) programs are designed specifically for youth in grades Kindergarten through fifth grade. Participants must be enrolled in Kindergarten and at least 5 years of age as of September 1 of the current year to enroll as a Cloverbud. Dakota County 4-H members are welcome to bring non-4-H friends to workshops!
These events are held one Saturday a month from 9-11 a.m. at various locations. Participants will engage in hands-on activities, meet new friends, and more!
Additional workshop dates and registration deadline:
April 13; registration deadline April 5
May 4; registration deadline April 26
**Please note: dates, times and locations are subject to change.
Workshop registration will be through 4-H Online. Refer to the 4-H Online event registration guide for details on registering in 4-H Online.
For liability purposes, all participants must be enrolled in 4-H Online before attending.
Workshops registration is required one week before the workshop to ensure enough supplies are on-hand for participants and to allow ambassadors and staff time to order and prepare materials. Space is limited.
Contact Rachel at reza0027@umn.edu if you have questions regarding the K-5 programming.
Shooting Sports & Wildlife Program Opportunities
Shooting Sports winter indoor practice schedule
New this year, we will be holding winter indoor practice for archery, air rifle and air pistol.
Prior to participating in Shooting Sports practices, youth must be enrolled in 4-H Online and parent/guardian must have signed all firearm consents in 4-H Online. Enrolled families will receive regular communication about upcoming events.
- Air rifle/air pistol indoor practice: Feb. 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28; 5:30-8 p.m. at the Rosemount American Legion, 14590 Burma Ave. West in Rosemount
- Archery indoor practice: Feb. 11, March 10, April 14; 2:30-4:30 p.m. at BlackHawk Middle School, 1540 Deerwood Drive in Eagan
WHEP meeting schedule
- WHEP Meetings: Feb. 20, March 7, April 4, 16; 6-7:30 p.m. at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center, 4100 220th St. West in Farmington
Leadership Opportuniies
Minnesota 4-H Key Award applications due April 1
Every year, we recognize a group of exceptional youth leaders that have contributed many hours of service to our program. The Key Award recognizes your contributions to your club and the community and encourages you to grow as an outstanding citizen.
In order to apply for this award, you must meet the requirements that are detailed in the application. Applications are due to the Dakota County Extension Office in Farmington by April 1. Contact Jess Beissel with any questions at reed0324@umn.edu.
Sign up to join the 2023-24 Dakota County 4-H Ambassador Team; Open to youth 6th grade and older
The Dakota County 4-H ambassador program is open to youth in grades 6-13, who enjoy volunteering and working with younger members. The ambassador program is a great way to share your leadership skills while helping your community. The 4-H ambassador program allows youth to take part in activities to help them become leaders and good citizens. A 4-H ambassador is an enthusiastic leader who promotes the organization using the skills, knowledge, and leadership abilities acquired in 4-H. They serve to strengthen the 4-H program through public relations and serve as a positive role model for younger members. Some past activities include: participating in community service projects, planning and leading Cloverbud and Sprouts activities, and promoting 4-H at various events throughout Dakota County.
Gatherings are scheduled before Federation at 6 p.m. Here is a tentative schedule. Additional activities and dates will be added once the group meets to discuss goals for the upcoming year. Please note: dates are subject to change and are dependent on meeting the minimum participation requirements. Parents and guardians are asked to help support the program to ensure compliance with the Safety of Minors policy.
Sign-up here to participate in the 2023-24 Ambassador program.
If you have questions, contact Rachel at reza0027@umn.edu.
Teens: Save the date for YELLO
The Minnesota 4-H State Ambassadors are excited to announce that the Minnesota 4-H state leadership conference, Youth Exploring Leadership and Learning Opportunities (YELLO), is scheduled for June 12-15. Location to be announced as soon as confirmed.
YELLO invites youth in grades 7-13 to explore college and career areas, engage in leadership learning, participate in community activities, and build new connections with peers and adults from throughout the state! The multi-day experience involves keynote speakers, interactive workshops, community service projects, social experiences, and youth-led engagement activities.
The anticipated registration fee is $300 and transportation options are also in the works. Dakota County 4-H Federation supports youth registration costs by paying a portion of the registration fees. See the Dakota County 4-H Scholarship Details for more details.
Regional and Statewide Events
Test your plant science knowledge with virtual plant science trivia nights - Feb. 13
Do you love plants and want to have some fun? Join us for virtual plant science trivia nights! Our next session is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 7:30 to 8 p.m. Test your plant knowledge and learn new facts while playing interactive games. No experience is necessary, just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm! Learn more and register.
Wildlife Wednesdays series continues
Have you ever looked out your window and wondered about the animals that share the same environment as you do? How do they stay warm in the winter? Why do some of our winged friends fly south when the weather changes and some hang around? Discover the wonderful world of wildlife around you with Wildlife Wednesdays! Series open to youth grades K-13. Workshop series is free.
Join us as we explore and uncover the fascinating lives of wildlife with wildlife experts, biologists and Master Naturalists. This series of wonder and wander will bring to youth conservation knowledge and the start of lifelong respect for the environment around us.
Sessions will be held virtually, 7-8 p.m., on Wednesdays from Jan. 31 to April 24, except Feb. 14.
Registration: Register in 4-H Online.
Join 4-H Explorers: Ag Around the World virtual series starting Feb. 19; register by Feb. 12
Youth in grades 6-8 are invited to explore agriculture around the world as we travel virtually to three countries in this self-guided program with opportunities to connect with people in other countries. A kick-off event will be held via Zoom on Monday, Feb. 19 at 8 p.m. From there, you’ll be given access to a Google site to explore a country each week. A guide will be provided to help you explore a farming practice within each country. 4-H Ag Ambassadors will check in weekly to discuss what you’re learning along the way. This year guest speakers will share more about agriculture in the countries participants are exploring. More info will be sent out upon registration. All guest speakers will be recorded for later viewing. Registration deadline: Feb. 12. Learn more and register.
Sign up for Bowling 101!
Bowling 101 (project bowl that is!) is a non-competitive opportunity for younger, inexperienced members to try Project Bowl. This event will be held virtually with 4-H'ers joining a Zoom meeting and using the Kahoot! App to participate. Sessions will be offered on Feb. 29 and March 12. Learn more about Bowling 101.
MN 4-H livestock in a box series
The Minnesota 4-H livestock in a box series is back! The 4-H animal science team is excited to roll out the second collection of learning kits for youth to explore animal science. This year's 4-H livestock in a box series will focus on the animal science project areas of pets (dog and cat), beef, sheep and swine. Each box will include all of the supplies necessary to complete lessons on breed identification, nutrition, health, care and associated careers. The lessons and hands-on learning activities are designed for youth in grades 4-7 to explore with little to no adult assistance. This is a fun and exciting way to explore these 4-H animal science projects.
Cost: Boxes are $25 each, which includes shipping directly to homes. Families may select individual boxes or order the entire series.
Ordered boxes will be prepared and delivered to families in the following schedule:
- February - Sheep; March - Swine
Registration: Supplies are limited, so we encourage families to order the kits in 4-H Online as soon as possible. For assistance, refer to the event registration guide. Youth must be enrolled in 4-H to participate. Not enrolled? Learn more or join 4-H.
4-H Next Level Video Creation series starts March 19
Do you have some basic knowledge of video creation and editing, but want to bring your videos to the next level? Then you need to join this Zoom video class!! Designed for youth in 8th grade & older who already have a baseline knowledge of video creation and editing, this online program will dive deep into creating the videos that you always dreamed you could make! In this class, you will create a video on a theme with the guidance of a professional instructor! Cost is $15.
- Class meets March 19, March 26 and April 2 from 5 to 6 p.m. via Zoom.
- Registration deadline: March 13.
Questions? Email Alicia at aawebb@umn.edu
4-H County Fair Updates
Dakota County Fair - August 5-11, 2024
Additional fair related dates will be announced as dates are confirmed.
We are on Instagram, give us a follow!
We have a new Instagram account! Please follow us at Dakota.County4H or connect via Facebook at DakotaCounty4H.
4-H State Showcase Event Dates
Minnesota State Fair - August 22-September 2
4-H Livestock Encampment at the MN State Fair - August 21-25
4-H Static (general) exhibit/demonstration Encampment at the MN State Fair - to be determined
MN 4-H Shooting Sports Invitational - September 6-8
MN 4-H State Horse Show - September 13-16
MN 4-H State Dog Show - September 21-22
Unsubcribe
If you no longer wish to receive this newsletter, please email Cherie to unsubscribe.
Dakota County 4-H Contacts
Jessica Beissel: reed0324@umn.edu, 651-480-7752
Kirsten Pederson: kapeders@umn.edu, 651-480-7722
Rachel Rezac: reza0027@umn.edu, 651-480-7754
Kris Vatter: kvatter@umn.edu, 651-480-7758
Cherie Frandrup: frand004@umn.edu, 651-480-7702
Website: https://extension.umn.edu/local/dakota
Location: 4100 220th Street West, Suite 101, Farmington, MN, USA
Phone: 651-480-7700
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dakota.county4h