Friday Forecast 8/16/2024
Dakota County 4-H Weekly Newsletter
Fair Updates
2024 Dakota County Fair in review
A couple quick facts about the recently completed Fair.
There were 4,370 total exhibits and 479 unique exhibitors registered. This is an increase of 396 exhibits (3,974) and an additional 30 exhibitors as compared to 2023.
General, Livestock, Horse/Horseless Horse exhibitors are advancing to their respective state events.
Three hundred and fifty gallons of chocolate and 370 gallons of vanilla malt mix were purchased to create delicious frozen treats. There were 430 volunteer shifts filled to run both the dining hall and malt stand.
Youth and volunteers worked hard alongside each other all week long to make this year’s Fair a memorable one.
But we’re not done yet! The Dog Project is hosting their showcase on Sunday, August 18. Good luck to all the exhibitors!
State Fair Livestock Exhibitors - Interview must be completed by Aug. 20
A reminder that all 4-H'ers that are exhibiting livestock at the state fair (except dairy) are required to participate in this online livestock interview process. Youth are able to complete their interview online anytime between now and Aug. 20 at 6 p.m. If you do not complete this by the deadline, the highest you can get is a blue ribbon.
Here is the link to the interview.
Questions? Contact Jess Beissel via email at reed0324@umn.edu or by phone at 651-210-0762.
MN State Fair encampment dates
Livestock Encampment - August 21-25
Static Exhibits (general), Performing Arts, and Public Presentations Encampment - August 29-31
Dakota County 4-H Federation Meeting and Fair Feedback
The next Federation meting is Monday, September 9 at 7 p.m. at the Dakota County Extension and Conservation Center in Farmington.
All 4-H members are encouraged to attend this meeting and provide feedback on the 2024 county fair. The 2024-25 youth and adult officers will be installed and treats will be provided.
Shooting Sports & Wildlife Program Opportunities
Shooting Sports & Wildlife practice schedule
Outdoor practice on Thursdays nights through Sept. 5; 6-8 p.m. at the Dakota County Gun Club, 17501 Station Trail, Rosemount. Archery, BB, air rifle, 22LR, and black powder will be available.
Shotgun practice: Wednesday nights at Hampton Gun club; 6-8 p.m.
Please use the Spond app to let us know if you will be at practice, this way we can have the right equipment and coaches available for youth. Spond group link.
Workshop Opportunities
Save the date for the Minnesota Woodworkers Expo with 4-H
4-H is partnering with the Minnesota Woodworkers Guild on their fall expo, and you are invited to save the date and attend this family-friendly event at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds! The day includes kid's workshops, demonstrations, prizes, and over 70 local and national woodworking retailers, tool manufacturers, lumber sellers, schools, organizations, and makers! 4-H youth and adults are needed as volunteers to assist with the maker projects. This event is free and open to the public. The Woodworkers Expo will be held on Saturday, Oct. 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Eco Experience Building on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Indicate your interest in volunteering at this event and learn more on the event website.
4-H Woodworking project members: Get free membership to the Minnesota Woodworkers Guild
4-H youth and adults interested in woodworking are invited to become members of the Minnesota Woodworkers Guild—youth under age 22 will receive free membership! Benefits include access to classes and information, deals and discounts, contests and expertise! 4-H is partnering with the Minnesota Woodworkers Guild to support woodworking project learning opportunities! Learn more about membership.
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 General exhibit/Public Presentation Encampment at the MN State Fair - August 29-31
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
Regional Opportunties
NW District Horse Show - Aug. 31
Are you ready to show your horse at the next level? The NW district horse show is a great opportunity to test your skills and compete with 4-H members from other counties! The show will take place on August 31 in Wilkin County. Open to 4-H members who have completed grades 3 and up. Register in 4-H Online by August 12. Learn more.
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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