Re-enroll in 4-H for the 2024-2025 4-H year
Youth enrollment in 4-HOnline is now open for the 2024-25 4-H year! All youth K-13th grade must re-enroll each year to stay active and take advantage of all the opportunities Dakota County4-H and Minnesota 4-H have to offer.
Enrolling in 4-H includes selecting a club and project areas of interest as this information does not carry over from last year. 4-H members only receive email communication for projects you have signed up for, so it is important to re-enroll soon. Selecting a project area doesn't require you to enter an exhibit in that project area at county fair.
Log into 4-H Online to re-enroll and to review, update and submit the following information:
- Health and emergency contact information.
- Family contact and demographic information, including club, school and grade.
- 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.
Rabbit project bowl practice starts Nov. 21
Rabbit project bowl practice is starting soon. The first practice is Thursday, Nov. 21 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Dakota County Extension & Conservation Center, 4100 220th St. West in Farmington. Registration not required. Just show up to learn more about the project bowl! Please enroll in 4-H Online before attending. Upcoming rabbit project bowl practice dates: Dec. 5 & 19
Questions? Contact Jess Beissel at reed0324@umn.edu
Dakota County Agriculture Education Leaders: applications due Nov. 22
Are you interested in agriculture and/or animal science? Youth who are in 6th grade and up are invited to become part of the Dakota County Agriculture Education Leaders (Ag Ed Leaders) group this year. This group of youth meet on a monthly basis. Some months include tours of local agriculture related businesses while other months involve planning for the upcoming year. Effort is made in planning meetings around youth schedules which means they land on different days of the week and may be in person or virtual. Youth voice helps to determine the group activities. Besides career exploration, other possible opportunities may include educating community members and peers, getting involved at county fairs, participating in after school programming, and more. Sign up to be part of the program.
Questions? Contact Jess Beissel at 651-210-0762 or email reed0324@umn.edu.
CFANS invites prospective students to the University of Minnesota - St. Paul; Nov. 18
Fun Fact: The University of Minnesota college application fee is waived for enrolled 4-H’ers who apply!
The University of Minnesota Office of Admissions invites prospective students to register for a "Gold Visit Experience" or a "Maroon Visit Experience" to learn more about the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS). The Gold Visit is the most comprehensive experience, and the Maroon Visit is for students who've already been to campus and want to explore a specific part. Upcoming visit date: Nov. 18. Youth can register here.
Sign up to join the 2024-25 4-H Ambassador Team; open to 6th grade and up
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. It 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 2024-25 Ambassador program.
If you have questions, contact Rachel at reza0027@umn.edu.
Horse Project Development Committee (PDC) application due Nov. 15
All youth and adults interested in getting involved in the leadership and planning of Horse or Horseless Horse (HLH) educational and fun project activities can apply using this form. The PDC is responsible for setting goals, planning events like clinics and the Fun Show, and making sure youth are receiving education around the Horse and HLH projects. There are sub-committees available for additional volunteers. This group meets monthly, based on availability. See application for requirements. Applicants must be re-enrolled in 4-H Online by Nov. 1. Applications due Nov. 15.
Questions can be directed to Kris Vatter, kvatter@umn.edu or Kirsten Pederson, kapeders@umn.edu.
Grade K-5: "Animal Adventures" workshop - Nov. 16; register by Nov. 13
Any youth in grades K-5 is welcome to join the fun on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center in Farmington for an animal-themed workshop. Guest presenters from The Rosie Pony will bring animals and provide up-close engagement opportunities.
Youth will interact with animal friends, make a craft and participate in other hands-on activities. The Cloverbud and Sprouts 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. Participants must be enrolled in Kindergarten and at least 5 years of age as of Sept. 1 of the current year to enroll as a Cloverbud. Dakota County 4-H members are welcome to bring non-4-H friends (grade K-5) to workshops (guests must pre-register). All participants will register for the workshop in 4-H Online. Registration due Wed., Nov. 13. The 4-H Online event registration guide will walk you through how to register. Contact Cherie if you have questions. If you are new to 4-H, please select “Virtual 4-H” or “In Person Camp/Event” club for your club. In the projects field, choose the project your primary focus is on and any other project areas you have an interest in.
Additional workshops: Dec. 7, Jan. 11, Feb. 8, March 8, April 5, May 3
Questions regarding the workshop can be directed to Rachel Rezac at 651-480-7754 or reza0027@umn.edu.
Shooting Sports and Wildlife project open house and kick-off - Nov. 14
All enrolled 4-H’ers grades 3-13 and parent/guardians are invited to attend the first Shooting Sports and Wildlife (SSW) project meeting of the year on Thursday, November 14, 6-8 p.m., at the Dakota County Conservation and Extension Office, 4100 220th Street West in Farmington.
Learn about events, practices, and happening this year in the Shooting Sports and Wildlife project. Youth invited to attend and provide input on this year's activities! There will be goodies and games.
The SSW project is a unique project area. Youth explore firearms safety and the importance of conserving Minnesota's natural resources. Trained and certified 4-H volunteer leaders lead this program in Dakota County. We have some equipment for youth to use, or youth can use their own, after inspection from local coaches.
All grades can be involved in the Wildlife project. There are age requirements on the other disciplines: BB gun and Archery (3rd grade & older); Air rifle and air pistol (4th grade & older), .22 rifle and .22 pistol, Muzzleloading and Shotgun (6th grade & older).
Grade K-5: "Make and Take" workshop - Dec. 7; must register by Nov. 29
Sign up to join the fun on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Kaposia Library in South Saint Paul for this in-person workshop. Please note the change in time and location. Youth will make winter-themed crafts to give away and participate in other hands-on activities. The Cloverbud and Sprouts 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.
Participants must be enrolled in Kindergarten and at least 5 years of age as of Sept. 1 of the current year to enroll as a Cloverbud. Dakota County 4-H members are welcome to bring non-4-H friends (grade K-5) to workshops. Non-4-H friends/guests must pre-register. All participants will register for the workshop in 4-H Online. Registration due Fri., Nov. 29. The 4-H Online event registration guide will walk you through how to register. Contact Cherie if you have questions. 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.
Additional workshops: Jan. 11 (Hastings), Feb. 8, March 8, April 5, May 3
Questions regarding the workshop can be directed to Rachel Rezac at 651-480-7754 or reza0027@umn.edu.
Holiday Craft Workshop - Dec. 14; register by Dec. 6
Youth 3rd grade and up are invited to attend a fun craft workshop where they will be able to make a variety of handmade items for their loved ones this holiday season. Youth will leave this session with 4-6 gifts wrapped and ready to gift to family members. There will be no peeking allowed by the adults dropping off the participants!
Workshop is Saturday, December 14, 9 a.m. - Noon, at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center, 4100 220th St. W. in Farmington.
Cost is $10. To secure your space in class, mail payments to Dakota County 4-H, Attn: Holiday Craft Workshop, 4100 220th St W, Suite 101, Farmington, MN 55024.
Registration due Dec. 6 and limited to 20 youth.
Register in 4-HOnline under EVENTS by December 6. 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.
If an accommodation is needed in order to be successful at this 4-H program, please contact your local Extension staff. Requests should be made as far in advance as reasonably possible. Please know that we will do our best to provide all requested accommodations.
Cloverbud (Gr. K-2) and Sprouts (Gr. 3-5) workshop schedule
Cloverbud and Sprouts workshop are fun-filled events led by the Dakota County 4-H Ambassador team. Workshops feature age-appropriate programs focusing on hands-on, safe activities meant to engage youth and create new friendships. The University of Minnesota Extension 4-H Cloverbud and Sprouts Programs are designed specifically for youth in grades Kindergarten through fifth grade. Participants must be enrolled in kindergarten and be at least 5 years of age as of September 1 of the current year to enroll in 4-H as a Cloverbud. Dakota County 4-H Cloverbud and Sprouts members are welcome to bring non-4-H friends to workshops! 4-H Cloverbud and Sprouts members need to be enrolled in 4-H Online before participating in any 4-H event. Workshops are free to attend, but participants must register one week in advance, in 4-H Online.
Workshop dates: Nov. 16, Dec. 7, Jan. 11, Feb. 8, March 8, April 5, May 3 from 9 to 11 a.m. Most workshops will be held at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center, 4100 220th St. West in Farmington, however location is subject to change.
Contact Rachel Rezac at reza0027@umn.edu with questions.
Tasty Tuesdays: Favorites from the Land of 10,000 Lakes continues Nov. 5
It's time for us to take a food journey through the land of 10,000 lakes! Join us as we experience some of Minnesota's popular recipes that will leave your taste buds wanting to try more! These meals will even satisfy the appetites of Paul Bunyan and Babe! You betcha we will also try some tradition treats for those with a sweet tooth! We won't forget the SPAM either...Uff da! Join us, virtually, from the comfort of your home on Tuesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the following dates: Nov. 5, 12, 19; December 3. Grades K-13. No deadline to register! Learn more and register.
4-H Explorers in Ag: Global agriculture adventure series starts Nov. 12
Join us as we explore the rich agricultural landscapes of Cambodia, Poland, and Canada—right from home! Each week unlocks a new country, where you’ll discover unique farming practices and how agriculture shapes communities worldwide. Guided by the Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors, you’ll learn, engage with guest speakers, and gain a global perspective on food and farming!
This five-week program kicks off with an orientation on Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m. and will meet weekly, culminating in a celebratory event on Dec. 10. This is a free program with take-home materials for youth in grades 6-8. Sign up now for this unforgettable journey!
4-H Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP)
WHEP is a hands-on environmental education program dedicated to teaching wildlife and fisheries habitat management to youth. It provides participants an opportunity to test their wildlife knowledge in a friendly competition in teams of 3-4 similarly aged individuals, led by a local 4-H volunteer coach. The winning senior WHEP team (14-19 years old) will have the opportunity to attend the annual national WHEP contest, typically held the last full week of July. 4-H WHEP will replace Wildlife Project Bowl.
There will be WHEP learning sessions for coaches and youth at the 4-H Outdoor Education Summit on Nov. 23 at the Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve in East Bethel. Learn more about WHEP.
Harvest time! 4-H seed to showcase workshop series
It's harvest time! Start collecting seeds for your 2025 agronomy projects. Join this 2-part agronomy workshop series Dec. 2 and Dec. 30 to learn how to prepare your seeds like a pro! From selecting the best seeds to creating an award-winning display, we've got everything you need to impress the judges. Open to all youth in grades 3+. Don’t miss this chance to level up your 2025 county fair project! Learn more and register. Register by Nov. 29.
Register for the New Club Leader webinar - Nov. 14
Are you stepping into a role supporting 4-H clubs this year?
Do you need to learn alongside other volunteers and connect with quality resources and tools to support your club?
Join us for the New Club Leader webinar to learn more about the role of a 4-H Club leader, and be equipped with resources and techniques to develop your 4-H club. This 75-minute online training is open to Minnesota 4-H volunteers, potential volunteers, and youth leaders as part of our statewide volunteer development webinar program. While the content is geared toward new club leaders, anyone providing leadership and support to a 4-H members' experience will benefit from the material. Register by completing the online form.
Topics include:
Roles of volunteers and staff
Essential elements of 4-H Clubs
Building a club support team
And many tools and resources to get you started!
The webinar training will be offered on:
Thursday, November 14 at 6:30 p.m.
Need more information? Contact Kris Vatter, kvatter@umn.edu or Volunteer Systems Regional Educator Jeremy Freeman at jeremyf@umn.edu
Service opportunity at Dakota City Heritage Village
Dakota City Heritage Village invites youth and adult volunteers to consider joining them for a special holiday event called "Christmas in the Village" to be held Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7, 8, 14, & 15 from 3- 8 pm. Some have joined in decorating buildings, serving ice cream in the Drug Store or wearing a costume and acting as a shopkeeper in the General Store/Gift Shop or school teacher in the school. The volunteer shifts are short at 2 hours, 15 minutes or 2 hours, 45 minutes. Most of the youth volunteers sign up with a friend. They can choose to wear costumes together or just a white shirt with dark pants. Youth under the age of 15 should be accompanied by an adult. Sign-up to volunteer.
If there is a 4-H club that likes to sing together and has a piano player or organist to accompany, the church may be a good fit for an hour long Christmas Carol Sing along. There is a Carol Songbook that visitors pick up and then a group leads everyone in singing.
If you have questions, please call Kris Akin at 651-402-2574 cell or at the Village office at 651-460-8050.