Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Model rocket, airplane, satellite, hang glider, etc., explanation of how airplanes/rockets fly, identify parts of a hot air balloon or helicopter and how they work, compare different types of kites, discuss pros and cons of different types of flight (airplane vs helicopter vs jet, etc), solar system, effects of earth’s rotation, phases of the moon, solar/lunar eclipses, star chart or constellations.

Requirements:

• No rocket engines or combustible rocket igniters, or chemically dangerous components are allowed to be exhibited display at the fair.

• Flyable models should be ready for flight (do not include fuel or engines); recovery systems should be in place and operative.

• Members should be familiar with safety codes in the 4-H curriculum or that accompany the kit.

Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Built, restored, reconditioned, or rebuilt bikes; types of bikes; parts of a bike; maintenance; traffic rules; bicycling hazards; city/county/regional bike or active transportation plans; how to wear a helmet; equipment used to teach others about bike repair or first aid, etc.; participation at a bike rodeo.

Limit 2

Discover how to be self-reliant and responsible, how to handle emergencies and develop home-alone skills. Learn about home safety, age-appropriate toys, nutritious snacks for children and how to create a poem, story or game.

Exhibit Suggestions:

Toy, game, puzzle, puppets, art/craft materials, etc.; babysitting kit/travel kit/rainy day kit; original book, story, poem, song, play, cookbook, audio or video tape and narrative, activity book, safety manual for children; scrapbook, photographs, items, reports, video, etc., on family heritage with description of what was learned about self and family; program and/or item used with a person with differing abilities; different types of families; care/foster families; resources for children alone at home; youth mental health - strategies to help youth cope with stress, anxiety, etc. with busy bags, sensory bottles/activities, conversation tips, etc.; job shadowing of an early childhood education provider, child care provider; resources available to lower income families (i.e. WIC, Food Shelf, etc).

Requirements:

• Exhibitors should be prepared to discuss the age and other characteristics of the child for whom the exhibit is intended and how the exhibit contributes to the child's growth, development, and well-being.

• If the exhibit is designed to be interactive with children, the item should be used with children before exhibiting and a photograph of this activity should accompany the exhibit.  Signs of use will not detract from the placing of the exhibit.

Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions: 

Research, reflection and learning about yourself, your family, your friends; community history; how to be a good neighbor; tour of a local community, government, community agency, historic place, etc.; how government functions; different parts of the world - cities, culture, history and more; community organizations, agencies or service departments like fire departments, police departments, sanitation, tourism, etc.; service projects (including club projects you helped lead).

Requirements:

• Service projects should include: how you identified the need in your community, developed a project to address the need, carried out the project, and reflected on the results.

All clothing exhibits will be judged on Saturday, July 19

Clothing & Textiles exhibits should be finished, clean and pressed for exhibition. Exhibits can be used before showing, but should be cleaned before exhibiting. Garments and sewn non-garments should be appropriate for the skill level and experience of the exhibitor.

CONSTRUCTED CLOTHING - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Constructed garment such as a blouse, shirt, top, skirt, pants, sweatshirt, jumper, dress, outerwear, etc.; constructed garment utilizing a fabric or technique new to the exhibitor, such as synthetic suede, active sportswear, micro-fibers, satin, etc.; tailoring techniques; wearable art that can be included as part of the constructed garment; research on careers in the industry, difference in fabric, how fabric is made, evolution of clothing, cost comparison, clothing selection, care of fabric, etc.; mended or repaired garment (include color photo of original garment and explanation of steps used).

Requirements:

• Include an information tag listing: pattern company name and number or inspirational photo for design, fiber content of fabric and care instructions.

UPCYCLED CLOTHING - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Significant alterations to a garment (e.g. oversized t-shirt made into a cinched t-shirt dress, alternating the style of the garment, updating an old prom dress to make it current, etc.); wearable art that can be added to purchased garment.

Requirements:

• Must be constructed from a previously worn garment that has been updated/altered in a way to produce a new garment.

• Include colored photo of original garment and new garment

PURCHASED CLOTHING - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Purchased garment such as a blouse, shirt, top, skirt, pants, sweatshirt, jumper, dress, outerwear, etc.; pre-used garments not altered (e.g. thrift store, garage sale, hand-me-down, etc.)

Requirements:

• The purchased garment or outfit must be accompanied by an 8-1/2" x 11" binder with the following information: colored photo of member wearing the garment. Label photo with name, county, and color of complexion, hair and eyes; cost of garment and explanation of why garment was purchased; fabric content and care of garment; examples of ways it will be used in existing wardrobe; sale receipt and tags. Additional information that could also be included: cost per wear; cost comparison (construction vs. purchased); inventory of wardrobe (not including undergarments); educational facts about fabric in garment(s); additional photos showing ways it can be used in existing wardrobe; accessories/shoes worn.

FASHION REVUE - Constructed/Purchased/Upcycled – Limit 1 exhibit per class

Exhibit Suggestions:

Judging is on the overall completed look which includes the outfit, accessories and overall appearance.

Requirements:

• Participants may model any clothing they have constructed, purchased or upcycled as a part of their 4-H clothing project.

• Garments are required to be modeled during conference judging and fashion show.

Fashion Show - Thursday, July 24, practice 6:15 p.m. and show at 7:00 p.m., Barnyard (Free) Stage

Come watch our Fashion Revue project participants as they walk the runway and modeling garments they either made or purchased and paired with accessories. Don’t miss as the winners are revealed for the first time on stage! 

Judged on Entry Day, Tuesday July 23

CREATIVE WRITING - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Written short stories, poems, essays, play scripts, speeches, memoirs, blog posts, children’s story or a story written specifically for young children, typically includes illustrations; series of social media posts or an article educating the public on a topic you are passionate about; original graphic novel including characters’ dialogue, plot line and illustrations; different types of poems; your favorite author; “What is Creative Writing?”; photo journalism newspaper-style display - combination of visual and written media to interpret a newsworthy or human interest event, idea or object; comic book; cartooning

Requirements:

• Original written piece; if the work of others are quoted or included, be sure to include proper citation. 

• Display in a way that can be viewed by fairgoers (printed in a binder, written on a canvas, hung on a display, etc.)

• Exhibits longer than a page must be submitted electronically in advance to 4-H staff by July 15

POSTERS: 4-H Promotional/Informational Poster - Limit 5

Exhibit Suggestions:

A poster promoting 4-H in general to various audiences; poster promoting a livestock species; poster educating the public on a livestock related topic.

Requirements:

• Display on poster board or tag board 14" wide by 22" high.

• Livestock posters will be displayed in the barns (judging will take place during static exhibit judging).

• Poultry and Rabbit posters are eligible to be displayed at the state fair.

Judged Wednesday July 23 - sign up for a judging timeslot online at http://z.umn.edu/communication!  In addition, if you want to perform your piece extra times throughout the fair to help us showcase 4-H projects to the public, you can sign up for as many times as you'd like at: http://z.umn.edu/performing 

Presentations may be related to any project that the member is enrolled in or to any area of interest or expertise the 4-H’er has. Presentations may be an individual or team. Individual presentations shall not exceed 15 minutes in length and team presentations should not exceed 25 minutes in length.  

DEMONSTRATIONS - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Teaching others a project or activity such as taekwondo, making lemonade, slime, macrame, etc.

Requirements:

• An oral presentation that includes actually demonstrating the hands-on steps required to accomplish a task or process. This most often includes the use of physical objects and actual doing or showing. At the end of the Demonstration there should be something of a "finished product".

• Demonstrations may also include the use of supporting visuals like posters, charts or technology-based options like presentation software (i.e. MS PowerPoint, KeyNote, Google Slides). However, the focus of the Demonstration should be on the "doing", not the supporting visuals.

LIVESTOCK DEMONSTRATIONS - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Demonstrate how to care for an animal or prepare it for showing at the fair; how to tie a halter; preventative or veterinary care for a species; how to tattoo an animal.

Requirements:

• Must include a live animal in the demonstration.

• Includes Beef, Dairy, Dairy Goat, Llama - Alpaca, Meat Goat, Poultry, Rabbit, Sheep and Swine projects. Other demonstrations involving animals can be entered under the demonstration category. 

PRESENTATIONS & SPEECHES - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

A report on leadership lessons learned through a trip to Washington DC; educational presentation that explores sustainable energy options; persuasive speech exploring Social Media effects on youth mental health.

Requirements:

• Oral presentations that present an idea, concept, viewpoint or experience in an educational or informative format (not for entertainment or performative purposes).

• Should include supporting visual aids like posters, charts or technology-based options like presentation software (i.e. MS PowerPoint, KeyNote, Google Slides). Supporting visuals may include tangible items, but generally little or no activity takes place with the item.

INTERACTIVE DEMONSTRATIONS - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

An origami project where they follow along with your demonstration step-by-step and create the project with you; an interactive yoga demonstration where you teach the audience various poses.

Requirements:

• Presentations should be continuous and include hands-on audience interaction/participation.

• Adequate supplies should be provided by the presenters so that all present can participate in the activity.

• Interactive Demonstrations should be approximately 25-30 minutes in length for both individual or team.

• Involving the audience in the process is the primary focus and constitutes a major portion of the evaluation results.

 Limit 2

Learn about being a good consumer as you explore smart shopping, income and expenses, saving money, credit, and needs vs. wants.

Exhibit Suggestions:

A budget workbook, income/expenses graphs, impact of supply chains on consumers, savings plans, etc.

Requirements:

For product comparisons:

• Junior exhibitors: a basic comparison of similar products with different pricing

• Intermediate exhibitors: include additional aspects of products other than just price

• Senior exhibitors: compare numerous components (nutritional value, cost per ounce, fabric content, longevity, etc).

CRAFTS - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Work directly from a kit, diamond painting, social media influenced/inspired, LEGO kits, model replicas, no sew/tie blankets, ceramic casts, paint by number, etc.

Requirements:

• For a beginner, choose a project that teaches new techniques. For advanced, choose a project requiring masterful craftsmanship.

• Emphasis is on the creative process and the implementation of design elements and principles. The craft/kit exhibit develops from someone else's ideas and can be easily replicated, modified and repeated by others.

• All projects need to be presented in a finished manner and ready for hanging, displaying, etc.

FINE ARTS - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Original work (no kits) in drawing, painting, sculpture, paint pouring, textiles, pottery, jewelry making, fiber art, quilling, original LEGO creations, etc

Requirements:

• For a beginner, choose a project that teaches new techniques. For advanced, choose a project requiring mastery.

• Emphasis is on the creative process and the implementation of design elements and principles. The fine art exhibit should show proof that it is developed from the 4-H’ers own ideas and imagination.

• All art objects must be appropriately finished and ready for hanging, displaying, etc. (i.e. wire or hooks on paintings, bases for 3 dimensional work, etc.)

PLASTIC SCULPTURE CHALLENGE - Limit 2

This project was created to build awareness and knowledge of both the positive and negative impacts of single use plastics and ways how to recycle or repurpose plastic. It is also meant to empower 4-H youth to be actively involved as change agents in reducing use of single-use plastics and increasing recycling/repurposing, for their family, their club, their community, their country and their world. 

Note: State Fair Plastic Sculptures will be on display only. No judging will occur at the State Fair. 

Requirements:

• Exhibits can be created by individuals or teams.

• 4-H’ers of all ages are invited to explore the plastics issue and create an art sculpture with found plastics.  

• If a base is needed, it should be made out of thin wood, plywood, fiberboard, or similar material. 

• Sculptures can be any size with a maximum size of: 3 ft. wide x 3 ft. long x 6 ft. tall. 

• Must be made of clean (washed) plastics

• Must be multidimensional. Sculptures can be free-standing or should be ready for hanging for display (e.g. wires or hooks for hanging, on a sturdy, movable base, etc.)

• Suggested materials to attach items together: zip ties, string, rubber bands, art materials, colorful duct tape, or electrical tape.  Strong adhesives (such as E6000 and Gorilla Glue) need to be used in a well-ventilated area with adult supervision. For safety, Safety note: melting plastic gives off toxic fumes. If using a glue gun, it is recommended to use a cool, “low temp” glue gun.

• Depending on the size and weight of your sculpture, you might consider adding wheels that lock in place or handles to your sculpture so it is easy to move. 

• Sculptures should include an Artist Statement (50 words or less) with: name(s) of artists, title of your sculpture, a statement about what you created and why, what materials you used, what you learned and how will it change your use of single-use plastics, how others can reduce their use of single-use plastics

 Limit 2

Engineering design projects are the creation, building, or tackling of solutions. Key to these projects is employing the engineering design process to effectively develop solutions. 

Exhibit Suggestions:

Using everyday items to build a simple machine to complete a simple task, create a product to solve a real life situation, create and test different types of bridge designs, create a bridge to sustain 5 pounds of weight, engineer and create a roller coaster, create a machine to launch a marshmallow a minimum of 3 feet, use wind energy to lift a bucket, use LEGO bricks to build and test creative solutions to real-world challenges or buildings, use KNEX to design and build an amusement park ride

Requirements:

• Provide a drawing of your design, including a description of the idea, problem or challenge being solved and an explanation of how the design process was used to develop a solution. 

See more on the Engineering Design project page

 Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Consumer issues, breeds, careers, basic care & handling, basic feeding, basic housing, animal welfare & ethics, etc.

Requirements:

• Animals include: Beef, Dairy, Dairy Goat, Meat Goat, Llama/Alpaca, Poultry, Rabbit, Sheep or Swine. 

• Animal ownership is not required.

• If selected, members have the option to take a state fair trip for exploring animals during general encampment or science of animals during livestock encampment (with or without a livestock animal exhibit).  

 Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Fish identification; habitat and food needs of selected fish; life history of a fish; parts of a fish; fishing knots; fishing equipment which is made or repaired such as lures, fishing rods and reels, ice fishing rig, or other fishing equipment; safety practices and techniques that are related to fishing (& ice fishing) or boating; water quality affecting the fish ecosystem; aquatic habitats; invasive species; tactics to fish for various species of fish; techniques and equipment used; cultural aspects of fishing; regional differences (types of fish, environments, ways to fish, considerations); commercial fishing for food industry; career opportunities; Department of Natural Resources fishing regulations

Requirements:

• If any lures or pieces are part of a display, ensure that pieces are secured and hooks are not going to be a safety concern (enclosed).

• Do not include live fish as part of the exhibit.

FOODS - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Food items such as: bars & cookies (no commercial mixes), breads (no commercial mixes), cakes (no commercial mixes), pastries (no commercial mixes), gluten free baked goods, homemade meal, other homemade food, fun with convenience foods, recipe adaptation to improve nutrition, cake/cupcake & cookie decorating

Food science experiment, food and/or kitchen safety, food allergens, careers in the food industry

Requirements:

• Exhibitors should be prepared to discuss: recipes, references, information sources, methods, etc., as appropriate to that exhibit.

• Exhibits containing perishable foods, which may be discarded, must include a colored photograph of the food. Print the photo and recipe on an 8 ½” x 11” paper.

Note: If food safety is a concern, judges reserve the right not to taste and/or judge foods items.

NUTRITION - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Serving of nutritious food (vegetable or fruit dish, snack, bread, dairy, etc.); study of nutrients needed for yourself or someone else, using the dietary guidelines and MyPlate; food or fitness plan and show how it relates to nutritional and energy needs (example: an athlete on a volleyball team, a teen who doesn't have a lot of time); adapt a recipe(s) to show healthier ingredient choices; physical fitness and/or food choices as related to disease (such as:  cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, etc.); comparing nutrient content on labels from similar food items; nutrition-related careers

Requirements:

• For food exhibits, include 8½ x 11 poster showing nutritional value, recipe, and a photo of the food.

FOOD PRESERVATION - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

• Suggested exhibits include one (1) jar or one (1) bag of product:

• Vegetables or fruits

• Jams, jellies, preserves, low-sugar spreads (no frozen)

• Pickled products (fermented or added acid, including pickles, sauerkraut, relishes, salsa).

• Meats, poultry and/or fish.  (Fish must be in pint jars.) Must be processed in a pressure canner.

• Note: Preserved fish count toward the limit that can be in your possession.

• Dried vegetables or dried fruits.

• Dried herbs.

• Beef or venison jerky.

• Cottage food producer requirements in Minnesota; different methods of freezing foods; commercially available freezer bags to see which produces the best quality; preserving foods that you’ve hunted and/or caught; methods for harvesting and preserving butchered meat; making freezer jams/jellies; illnesses you can get from improper food preservation; safe canning methods; canning equipment and its purpose; preserving foods in a pressure canner; food preservation techniques with those used in the past

Requirements:

• Consult the authorities (University of Minnesota Extension/other state Extension publications, USDA, National Center for Home Food Preservation) and follow the recommendations for the year (or closest to) for all recipes, procedures, and processing times. Recipes from pectin packages, etc. are acceptable.

• All food preservation exhibits must be labeled or have a note card that includes county, name, grade, product, style of pack, processing method (boiling water bath or pressure canner), date, processing time, date processed and source of recipe. Pressure canned items indicate dial or weighted gauge and how many pounds of pressure used.

• Jars must be heat-tempered clear glass canning jars, not commercial glass jars (i.e. glass mayonnaise jars).

• All jars must be sealed. Jellies and jams must be covered with lids.

• Use pint jars for fruit, vegetables, and fish; one-half pint jars for jams and jellies; 2-1 pint jars or one quart jar for pickled products.

• No artificial food coloring should be added to entries.

• Dried foods may be stored in glass jars, self-sealing plastic bags or airtight plastic bags. The quantity of dried foods should be: fruits and vegetables 1/2 cup or more of each, herbs - 1/4 cup of each in whole leaf form, 3 strips of meat (i.e. venison or beef jerky).

• Foods must be preserved within the past year.

FOOD REVUE - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions: 

The purpose of the exhibit is to show a member’s experience in planning, preparing, and serving food as part of a meal or snack. Select a tested, favorite recipe from a cookbook, 4-H bulletin, or other reliable source.  Plan healthy meal to go along with your favorite food selection and choose an appropriate table setting for one person.  

Requirements:

• The display must be no larger than 30” square.

• Displays will need to be set up on a table prior to judging (see staff member for assistance).  Along with your place setting, one serving of your favorite food selection from your menu should be included for display on the table.  If your favorite food is to be served hot (example: lasagna) it need not be hot at judging time.

• Food Revue will be judged on food and nutritional knowledge, menu design/theme, table setting design, and cost information.

• Must include binder with: cover page, menu, cost, nutritional information, picture of place setting, picture of food, and one or more pictures of you in action preparing your meal.

• Note: the judge may or may not taste the food.

 Limit 2

Explore countries and learn about their government, history, people and popular cultures or further explore your own culture and traditions. Discover how you can make a difference in your community and your world with a Global Connections project.

Exhibit Suggestions:

Exploring the important elements of your culture and how it is different from other cultures; coins, stamps or postcards from other countries; oral history interview with someone from another culture living in your community; teach English to non-native English speaking people; collection of foreign recipes you have prepared for others; items, pictures, maps, charts, slides/tapes, drawings, illustrations, writings or displays that depict the heritage of the member's family or community or 4-H history; a country’s or U.S. region’s geography, economy, agriculture, people, language, housing, culture, music, crafts, clothing, holidays or other aspects; pick a country to study and compare to one of the fifty U.S. states with a similar population.

 Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Health issues; community service project that relates to a health issue or addresses a community need; conduct a community health assessment; research resources that are available to you in your community; organize a peer support group or workshop; promote health through campaigns and events; develop an “anti-bullying” campaign; implement healthy changes in your routine; address a cause that’s connected to health and wellness; design a model of the human skeleton and label the bones or learn about other organs and systems of the human body; fitness, motion, and athletics and how they fit into a healthy lifestyle for you; careers in the health science industry.

 Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Finished or refinished item, or reupholstered furniture; repaired, restored, remodeled or upcycled item for the home; remade or reclaimed articles for the home with a link to the past, including history of use; redecorating or remodeling plan showing before and after; item creation for the home - for appeal or for practical use; home organization and functionality (i.e. make a spice rack); environmentally friendly home improvements; assess energy efficiency.

Requirements:

• Be prepared to discuss how exhibit applies to the home, how and where it is used or displayed, and all details of how it was made or selected, including the materials used, how and why it was done, costs involved, and alternatives considered

• Before and after photos and details showing its place in the home environment must accompany exhibits that are items for the home.

• Pictures and wall hangings that are exhibited should be finished.

• Purchased kits are allowed to be used.

 Limit 2

Exhibit suggestions:

Horse behavior, terms, and breeds; body parts; grooming, saddling and bridling; safety and equipment; horsemanship; judging and oral reasons; selection, training, and showing; horse breeding, genetics, and heredity; horse diseases and prevention; fencing, pasturing, and housing; horse-related careers; riding apparel and equipment.

Requirements: 

• Members who currently own or lease a horse should register for Horse Related. Members who do not own/lease a horse should register for Horseless Horse. Note: State trips awarded in these two project categories will be to the MN State Horse Show and can be taken in addition to a State Fair trip.

Limit 5

FLOWER GARDENING

Exhibit Suggestions:

Outdoor living flowers and plants (including outdoor fairy gardens): cut flowers: three stems of one variety of annual flowers, or one stem of a hardy perennial, or one stem of summer flowering bulbs, or one blossom of a tea rose, or one stem of a hardy shrub rose; flower bouquet or arrangement on any theme; dried flowers with a card explaining the drying method; a flower garden plan drawn to scale on poster board; principles of propagation or reproduction, nutrition, culture, physiology (how a plant lives and grows).

Requirements:

• Label each container according to kind or variety.

• Live plant material will be accepted if it can be maintained in a fresh condition with ease.

• Flower Garden plans should not exceed 22 x 28". Include the correct variety name and pictures of the flowers grown. Be prepared to discuss the process from soil preparation to blooming.

INDOOR GARDENING

Exhibit Suggestions:

Indoor living flowers and plants (including indoor fairy gardens); Two or more varieties of house plants with common and botanical name; terrarium or dish garden: consider terrarium material of general terrarium plant of native and woodland plants of Minnesota; plant propagation, plant history, forcing bulbs, life cycle of a flowering plant, etc.

Requirements:

Potted Plants:

Flowering plants should be in bloom.

• Foliage plants should be in vigorous condition.

• Plants should be grown in the exhibited container for at least one month prior to fair.

Plants In Hanging Containers:

• Container for the plant should not be more than 10" in depth or diameter.

• Maximum total length of hanger and plant should not exceed 4'

• Evaluation will include appropriateness of plant for a hanging container, condition, arrangement, hanger to container to plant relationship, and plants being well established.

Terrariums:

• The terrarium may not exceed 24" in any dimension.

• Terrarium should be planted four to six weeks ahead of exhibiting.

• Members must be able to identify all plant materials in their terrariums and know why they were selected for use (quality, container and design).

Fairy Garden:

• Must include at least two types of live plants.

• Gardens can be in an indoor container or outdoor display, with clear labeling of plant species.

• Exhibits may include a brief written description (maximum 100 words) explaining the theme or story of the garden.

• Plants should be grown in the exhibit container for at least one month before the fair. 

 LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Exhibit Suggestions:

Landscape design with photos, design, budget, key explaining certain pieces in the design, etc.; use a computer to design landscaping, garden area, or new treeline development; turf management; turf grasses for home use; landscape project related to service learning; discussion of using annual vs. perennial plants; pollinator gardens.

Requirements:

• For designs, include a design on paper or 3D model not to exceed 24 x 36 inches.

• Include itemization of supplies, plants, trees, grasses, rocks, bricks, pavers, gates/fences, structures, and other materials used in the design as well as a budget.

• If multi-year project, describe the yearly benchmarks.

• If applicable, identify software or computer programs used.

• Be familiar with elements of landscape design such as: balance, focalization, simplicity, rhythm and line, proportion, and unity.

METAL WORK - Limit 2

Metal work is the creation of metal structures by cutting, bending and assembling processes. It is a value-added process involving the creation of machines, parts, and structures from various raw materials.

Exhibit Suggestions:

Article made of metal; properties, uses, or processing of metals

Requirements:

It is encouraged that youth provide a binder or supporting documentation about the work on the project - pictures of the process, statement of materials purchased or tools utilized etc.

WOODWORKING - Limit 2

Woodworking is the skill of making items from wood (or wood substitute/alternative product)

Exhibit Suggestions:

Cabinet making (cabinetry and furniture), wood carving, joinery, carpentry, woodturning or other wood manipulation techniques; properties, uses, or processing of wood or wood alternatives.

Requirements:

• Please contact 4-H staff if your project is an oversized exhibit.

• It is encouraged that youth provide a binder or supporting documentation about the work on the project - pictures of the process, statement of materials purchased or tools utilized etc.

 Limit 3

Includes (but not limited to) automotive, implement, heavy equipment, recreation vehicle, small engine, tractor, and electric projects.

Exhibit Suggestions:

An aspect of a machine or a piece of equipment use, operation, modification, repair, care, reconditioning, etc.; the history, purpose, technology or design of a machine or a piece of equipment; engine that has been reconditioned or repaired; device constructed by a member utilizing a powersource; modification or restoration of an engine, vehicle, tractor, machine or implement (body work and/or mechanical); diagram of wiring.

Requirements:

• If bringing an engine, vehicle, tractor, machine or implement as a project, consider including a binder or display outlining your project process from research to project completion.

• Motorized projects must adhere to safe building and operating design.

• Please contact 4-H staff if your project is an oversized exhibit. Large exhibits may be displayed outdoors

• Fuel must be removed from exhibits for display (fuel can be added for judging purposes, but then removed after judging for safety purposes).

• A colored wiring diagram or schematic must accompany all electric and electronic exhibits. Safety must be reviewed when working with electricity.

ENTOMOLOGY - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Insect collections; insect life cycle, honey production process, insect habitats or effects of environment factors on insects; insects in current events (e.g. pollinators, butterfly tagging, invasive species, protected or declining species); insects in our ecosystem.

Requirements:

• Emphasis of the project must relate to an aspect of entomology.  Project must demonstrate specific knowledge of insects.  Be prepared to discuss references and sources (e.g. books, magazines, internet, interviews with an expert etc.)

• Specialty insect collection can include a collection of a single order (e.g. Coleoptera or Lepidoptera), a collection of immature insects, a collection of insects from a particular habitat (e.g. aquatic, forest, or prairie) or a collection of economic pests of a specific crop (e.g. insects attacking corn).

• General collection - starter collection should have 10-20 insects, goal is to get to 50 species of adult insects representing at least 8 orders. Each year add or replace insects. A full 50 species case would be approximately 19" x 16.5" x 3" to 24" x 18" x 3".

• Collection shall be contained in one see-through enclosed case (can be purchased or homemade).  Arrange so that the case may be displayed in a horizontal position.  Place the project label on the lower right corner of the top.

• Specimens must be collected by the exhibitor.  Purchased insects are not acceptable.

• Specimens must be properly pinned with insect pins. Small insects may need to be placed on cardboard points.

• Specimens must be properly labeled.

• The location, date, and collector must be included on the labels.  County and state (and country, when applicable) are minimum location information that should be included.  It is valuable to include the nearest town or township where the specimen was collected, the type of habitat it was collected from (e.g. on elm tree; on lake shore; indoors.), and the common name of the insect.

• All labels should be visible so they can be read.  Use a permanent ink marker, pencil or print labels from a computer. 

EXPLORING THE ENVIRONMENT/ENVIROMENTAL SCIENCE - Limit 2

Explore the relationships and interactions of plants, animals, humans, and their ecosystems through the specific challenges they face and/or solutions they offer.

Exhibit Suggestions:

Environmental challenges, such as climate change, pollution, erosion, etc.; phenology journal used to keep track of environmental changes throughout a season; participation in an event such as a BioBlitz or naturalist program, or other citizen science project to collect data and/or raise awareness; community map or assessment, to observe environmental needs and community assets; hiking, camping, paddling, backyard, and other explorations/adventures; Minnesota plants, insects, animals, birds or fish including information on habits, foods, and shelter needs; collection of wildflowers growing near where you live or a place you visit; local environmental engineering and/or technology applications (urban design, pocket prairies, roadside management, eco-friendly buildings, etc.); environmental policy and/or management; ecosystems or the flow of energy throughout the ecosystem; invasive, threatened, or extinct species.

Requirements:

• Follow local or state policies for collecting, removing and/or transporting plants and other organisms

FOREST RESOURCES - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Parts of a tree; collection of leaves, seeds, needles, etc.; tree growth; annual ring cross-sections; your favorite tree--include name of tree, drawings or pictures of tree, facts and uses of the tree, and other appropriate information; layers of the forest; renewable versus non-renewable resources; forestry careers; leaf and twig identification; taxonomic keys; nutrient road maps; forest ecosystem health; succession; tree and forest measurements; fire's effect on the forest; how trees grow; forest types; harvesting methods; pathology of the forest, invasive species, human impacts on the forest; forest products or industries, including maple syrup production, wood products, Christmas trees, or others (recreation, wildlife, etc.); woodland management such as policies created by the U.S. Forest Service or specialized design including shelterbelts/windbreaks and urban forestry; human health benefits from trees and what role trees play in global ecology; participation in a mass tree planting and carbon offset calculation; history of forestry through the lens of indigenous practices or the effects of treaties.

Requirements:

• Please follow local or state policies for collecting, removing and/or transporting plants and other organisms

• Specimens should be mounted on cardboard or other sturdy material.

GEOLOGY - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Collections of rocks, minerals, gemstones, or fossils; collection with a theme such as metamorphism, weathering, quartz minerals, ores, etc.; polished rock specimen, including an unpolished specimen of each rock type for comparison; principles of geology; natural earth sciences; types of rocks (Igneous, Metamorphic, Sedimentary); geologic earth structures or features such as volcano, mountain range, plate tectonics, earthquake, cave, glacier; geological time scale.

WATER/WETLANDS/WATER RESOURCES - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Water’s unique chemical/physical properties; water as a necessity for life; water connecting earth systems; local water cycle or watershed; water body’s thermoclines or nutrient cycles; how water is used by people - family’s water footprint at home, stormwater runoff, water accessibility or insecurity in a specific region of the world; water/wetland resource management measures like erosion control practices, and terraces, or a map of water bodies and water quality.

Requirements:

• Follow local or state policies for collecting, removing and/or transporting plants and other organisms.

 Limit 2

Exhibit suggestions:

Projects created using a hand needle, hook, shuttle or loom; items made using the techniques of knitting, crocheting, embroidery and crewel, counted cross stitch, needlepoint, hardanger, weaving, appliqué, latchhook, tatting, hand embellishments, felting, hand embroidery; comparison and evaluation of materials, supplies, or accessories used for a needle arts technique; needlework product pricing, advertising and marketing; comparison of different techniques of a particular needle art (ex. different felting techniques, different stitches); caring for your project supplies (ex. storing, organizing, cleaning); historical/cultural study (e.g. needle arts heirloom from your family or local history museum).

Requirements:

• Each exhibit must include a consumer information tag, if appropriate, with the following information: pattern name and source, fiber content, and care instructions.

• Exhibitor should be prepared to discuss techniques, fiber content, care instructions, and cost. Exhibitor is encouraged to bring instructions, pattern, or other educational sources used.

• Projects must be finished and ready to display. If an item is framed, a wall hanging, or to be displayed on a wall, it should be finished and ready to hang.

• Project kits are acceptable in this project area.

• Historical items should include information about how item should be preserved.

 Judged on Entry Day, July 23

Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Non-clothing sewn, constructed item (e.g. simple home or clothing accessory item such as a pillow, apron, book bag, belt, placemat, gym bag, sewing kit, etc.); non-clothing article using a pattern or your own idea.

Requirements:

• Include an information tag listing: pattern company/kit name or source, fiber content of fabric and care instructions.

 Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Pet displays on pet selection; appropriateness of a pet; cost; origin and history of the animal; breeds; health or nutrition; therapy animals; service learning; pet care; careers; training. Note: no live pets.

Requirements:

• All photos exhibited must have been taken/produced/enhanced by the exhibitor during the current year

• The exhibitor’s name, club, county and exhibit class should be clearly printed on the back of the exhibit.

• Unaltered 4”x6” photos must be attached to the back of any exhibit

• For safety, picture frames or glass are not allowed

• Exhibits with multiple photos should use 4”x6” prints - multiple photos should be displayed on a board

• Enlarged photos should be 5”x7” or 8”x10”

• Photos should be mounted on a mat board, foam board, or poster board using neutral colors (white, tan, gray or black). Do not use construction paper, cardstock, colored paper, or wrapping paper. Photos should not be mounted on any type of flexible/bendable paper. 

• Use a 14” x 22” board for 5 or more photos in an exhibit. Cut smaller boards for enlargements

• Exhibits should reflect the appropriate size for the item designed, e.g. the photos used for an ornament, a calendar, a poster, or brochure would require different sized photographs.

• Photo/Video Release Form - It is important to learn how to use this form when including any person in your photograph that is NOT in 4-H. This verifies that the subject has agreed to have their photograph taken. Keep this signed form in a file. Here is a link to the Photo & Video Release form in English, Spanish, Hmong and Somali.

• Learn how to prepare your photos for the fair: 

  •  Video Tutorial z.umn.edu/4HPhotoPrepVideo 

  • Slideshow Tutorial z.umn.edu/4HPhotoPrepSlideshow 

ELEMENTS OF PHOTOGRAPHY - Limit 2

This exhibit will focus on what makes a good photograph (composition, light, shutter speed, color, depth of field, leading lines, etc.). Only whole image, post-production corrections are allowed including: cropping, exposure correction, color saturation, contrast, sharpening, and black and white conversion. Physical on-camera filters that attach to the camera lens are allowed.

Exhibit Suggestions:

• Photo story to show a process (before and after) or documentation (i.e. town or family history, community service project, environmental issues, how to make or do something, a day in the life of…)

• Common theme or subject of 3-7 photos (4 x 6") (i.e. people, buildings, landscape, animals, seasons, nature, weather, shapes, etc.)

• Showcase of photographic elements – 5-7 photos that illustrate some photographic element such as composition, lighting, shutter speeds, depth of field, color, contract, cropping, etc.

• Panorama (i.e. a single image created in camera or a triptych of several images created by moving the camera).

PHOTO MANIPULATION - Limit 2

Photographs in this category require creative software editing, including such techniques as layering, digital filters, creative coloring, removing or adding objects, text additions, etc. This category focuses on how photography is used in everyday life, including creative editing, mugs, ornaments, photo gifts, posters, calendars, brochures and advertising.

Exhibit Suggestions:

• Composite Photo: Multiple images combined into one image

• Single Source Image Manipulation - acne removal, eye enhancement, teeth whitening, etc.; selective color manipulations (i.e. converting everything to black and white except items that are the same color red); apply digital filters (other than black and white); removing distractions in the background, etc

• Photo Series of 4-7 digitally edited photos that illustrate a common theme such as environmental issues, plight of pollinators, how to do something, etc.

• Enlarged photograph (5 x 7” or 8 x 10”) digitally processed or software enhanced on neutral matting (white, tan, grey or black) (the unaltered 4 x 6” photo is included on the back of the exhibit).

• Publications: calendar, brochure, event poster, etc. that are created using computer software

• Photo novelties: mugs, puzzles, blankets or other media on which photos have been printed

• Slideshow or compilation of photo images. Use titles, voice over, background selections, to make a show, etc.  For judging can show project on 14 x 22 poster board or computer, tablet or DVD.

Requirements:

• Stock photos are not allowed. A stock photo is a photo taken by another person (not yourself) who has licensed their photo for specific uses by others. All images used in photo manipulation exhibits must have been taken by the exhibitor. Examples of images not allowed include: an image of space (taken by NASA) as the background of your photo or if you want a shark inserted into your composite image, you must take a photo of a shark.

Limit 10

AGRICULUTRAL TECHNOLOGY

Exhibit Suggestions:

Technology used in agriculture such as GPS tools, drone use, implement technology, yield mapping, genetic engineering, seed traits, automated tractors, agricultural chemistry, precision agriculture, on-farm research, side by side trials, etc.

CORN/SOYBEANS/FORAGES/SMALL GRAINS/SPECIALTY CROPS

Exhibit Suggestions:

• Two-quart jar or clear container equaling 8 cups of shelled corn, soybeans, small grain variety, or dried specialty crop such as sugar beets, edible beans, black beans, kidney beans, field-produced sweet corn, peas, carrots, potatoes, popcorn, etc.

• Plate or flat box of specialty crop fresh products.

• Display 6-10 ears of corn of the same variety.

• A dried sample of one variety of corn, soybeans, or small grains in a 3-5 inch tied bundle.

• A dried or ensiled sample of alfalfa, warm-season grasses, cool-season grasses, sorghum, native grasses, silage, etc. in a 3-5 inch tied, dried bundle, clear container, clear plastic bag, or a 4-6 inch bale. It is recommended that a sample analysis of your forage accompanies the sample.

• Plant reproduction, variety analysis, plant growth factors, plant characteristics, plant part identification, growing and using plants, plant growth and food production, examples of a plant disease, nutritional analysis of feedstuff.

• A display using a 4-H project kit (growing corn, soybeans, etc. in a five-gallon bucket).

• Tallest Stalk of Field Corn, Tallest Sunflower, etc. 

Requirements:

• Crops must be grown on a farm with which you have a relationship with the producer and have interviewed the producer about the growing process.

• Crops must have been grown in the current or previous growing season.

• Include an information card listing the variety, soil and agronomy information of the crop if exhibit is a crop sample.

• Be familiar with crop input costs and the growing process.

PLANT AND SOIL SCIENCE

Exhibit Suggestions:

Soil sample analysis (soil analysis can be done by obtaining kits at your local Extension Office), different varieties of cover crops, plant life cycle

WEEDS & PESTS

Exhibit Suggestions:

Current pest life cycle; pest identification; prevention or treatment; impact on the plant, etc.; weed identification; in-depth investigation of one weed, a class of weeds (such as grasses or broad leaves) or a collection of different weeds.

Requirements:

• Do not include live or dried noxious weed samples in your display (check current listing here)

• Weed displays must be in a sealed container.

 Judged on Entry Day, July 23

Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

A quilted item, any finishing technique acceptable (e.g. potholder, table runner, doll quilt, bed-sized quilt); repair, repurposing, or re-design of a previously finished quilt; the history of quilting/quilting patterns; a comparison of different fabrics or threads; different types of quilting notions and tools; piecing techniques.

Requirements:

• Attach an index card which includes: pattern name and source, fiber content of fabric & batting, and care instructions.

• Finishing techniques may be machine quilted, hand quilted or hand tied. If not quilted or tied by the 4-H’er, exhibitor must state who tied or hand/machine quilted the final project.

• Techniques used, size, and difficulty of the project should be based on the exhibitor’s sewing/quilting experience level.

 Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

First Aid or Childcare Kit with explanations for the items you included; Public Service Announcement and/or social media toolkit to promote a safety topic of your choice; tips for being safe when home alone, such as emergency numbers to call, safety while preparing snacks, keeping doors locked, etc.; participation in a safety program such as farm/livestock/animal, fire, food, firearms, ATV, watercraft, wilderness/outdoor, traffic, bike, personal, online, sun/skincare or others; advice from safety professionals

Requirements:

• Abide by local, state, and federal laws regarding your safety topic

Limit 2

In this project area, 4-H youth build confidence in doing science by exploring questions and finding answers. They follow a step-by-step process (called Science Inquiry) to satisfy their curiosity, learning more about something they can observe or experience. 

Exhibit Suggestions:

Investigation of the physical properties of slime using different materials/recipes; use different types of bird feeders to determine if there is a preferred bird feeder type in your backyard; investigate the difference in the frog species in the spring and the frog species in the summer in your local pond; explore how your dog responds to different treats during training; different types of sunscreen and their effects on UV beads; test of water filtration systems to identify which one resulted in the cleanest water; investigating how the concentration of sugar affects crystal growth with rock candy, an exhibit you presented at a local science fair.

Requirements:

• Include the question, issue, or happening being investigated and explain each step followed during the science inquiry process.

• Include a description of how a science inquiry process was used to help understand the happening being investigated or studied.

Limit 2

(Top overall project will earn a self-determined State Fair trip.) 

Archival books will be judged on quality of materials, use of archival techniques, and preservation of family history or personal memories.

Artistic books will be judged on quality of work and use of artistic techniques and design principles.

Requirements:

• Any size scrapbook with at least ten pages.

• Scrapbooks will be available for public display; use page protectors.

• Books may contain one or more subjects, and will not be judged on quality of photographs.

Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Safety techniques (e.g. range commands and range safety, eye and ear protection, cleaning a firearm, dressing for safety-first aid, survival skills, etc.); shooting skills (e.g. basic safety rules, basic parts and functions of each piece of equipment, care and maintenance, accessories, position, etc.); member-made shooting sports equipment (e.g., pellet stand, kneeling role, target stand, quiver, etc.); history and nomenclature of firearms; sportsmanship, ethical behavior, and responsibility.

Requirements:

• No explosive materials are allowed. Arrow tips or broadheads should be removed for display but may be included as part of the judging experience if secured for safety.

• Exhibits including firearms & bows must be sporting varieties only. Exhibitors must include a color photo of the item to be left on display - bows and firearms will not be left on display. The photograph should be taken prior to the county fair and attached to the display.

• MN and 4-H regulations for handling and storing firearms must be followed.

Limit 2

The Self-Determined project area is intended for those projects that might not fit within other categories and for those learning experiences that members select, plan, and manage on their own. It is distinct from learning experiences determined or guided by others (e.g. school work, club-determined projects).

Exhibit Suggestions:

The selection, planning, and management of a service learning project and what the member learned during the experience; a school assignment with the addition of an accompanying journal describing the process of developing the display and capturing reflection on learning during completion of the assignment; photo collage capturing the experiences and stages of development of an event planned and facilitated by the member; the “behind the scenes” work, reflection, and application of concepts done by an individual member; lego creation (not a kit) intended to include some deeper thinking and learning that is not encapsulated in any other project, requiring the exhibitor to create their own learning path.

Requirements:

• A self-determined project will be judged primarily on the self-guided learning experience. While the artistry and craftsmanship of the exhibit itself will be considered, emphasis will be placed on the selection and identification of the self-guided learning experience and the ability of the member to convey the experience and what was learned from it. If the member wishes to be judged on the exhibit’s craftsmanship or artistry, the exhibit should be entered within the appropriate project area (e.g. a project in seed art should be submitted within Crafts and Fine Arts project area if looking to be judged on the quality of the final product and the process and learning associated with its assembly).

• Exhibits consisting of projects or assignments done for school or other organized learning environments must indicate how the member went above and beyond the requirements of the assignment/project and individualized the learning to meet their own goals and desired outcomes.

• Exhibits may be submitted by individuals or teams. A team may consist of not more than three (3) individuals. Team members will be judged collectively.

• To be eligible for State Fair, the member(s) must be able to discuss the process of selection, planning and management of a self-determined learning experience.

Limit 4

Exhibit Suggestions:

Built robots; robot programming, robots in action; ROV’s and operation; show the use of robots in Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) education; foundations of computers and explore how computers work for various projects; cyber bullying and prevention; create an educational app; computer-based careers; design computer hardware/software

Requirements:

• Include written or verbal description, images/photos needed to assist with verbal or written description

• Computers, smart phones, robots etc. can be used during the judging process. Include a photo of expensive equipment if you do not intend to leave on display.

FRUIT - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Several varieties of the same fruit; proper pruning of fruit trees and explaining the process; uses of fruits (fresh, jams, juices, cooking, baking, salads and recipes); fruits as natural dyes; disease or insects and methods of control.

Requirements:

• If displaying a fruit sample, exhibitor should bring 4-6 items of one variety of fruit in an appropriate-sized clear container and include an information card listing the varieties of fruit.

• The exhibit must be produced at home or by a close relative. CANNOT BE STORE PURCHASED.

HERB GARDENING - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Herb container garden planted in a tub, pot, or planter; ½ cup dried sample of herbs you have raised, harvested, and dried (in an airtight container); information on raising or using herbs

POTATOES - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Potato box, soils, varieties, plant science, pests, nutrition, crossbreeding and hybrids, genetics, mulching, disease control, sun scald.

Requirements:

• For displays, use a box or clear container and include either all the potatoes in one hill (all the potatoes one plant produced) or 6-10 potatoes that are similar in size (can be single or multiple varieties) from one or two hills of the same variety of potato.

• Include a card or label with variety information

• Be familiar with crop input costs and the growing process.

• The exhibit must be produced at home or by a close relative. CANNOT BE STORE PURCHASED.

VEGETABLE CONTAINER GARDEN EXHIBIT - Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Showcase your gardening skills by growing a thriving Vegetable Container Garden. This exhibit challenges 4-H’ers to design and maintain a productive garden in a container, perfect for small spaces.

Requirements:

• Must include one type of vegetable grown in a container.

• The container should be portable and have proper drainage.

• Judges will assess plant health, variety selection, creativity in design and overall presentation.

• Exhibits may include a brief written description (maximum 100 words) detailing the plant choices, care methods and any unique features of the garden.

• Plants should be grown in the exhibit container for at least one month prior to the fair.

• A themed herb garden with multiple plants would be accepted in this category. 

VEGETABLE GARDENING - Limit 4

Note: This exhibit is not an optimal example of an edible vegetable.  This is done for fun-growing purposes

Requirements:

• Limited vegetable boxes are available for display. You may wish to provide your own box or clear container.  

• Include a 3 x 5” card or label with the variety name of each kind of vegetable in the exhibit. 

• All specimens in the exhibit should be typical of the varieties shown on the exhibit card.

• Exhibit the proper number of specimens for each kind of vegetable:   

• Large-sized - Show one cabbage, squash, melon, pumpkin, cauliflower, celery, Swiss chard.

• Medium-sized - Show three each of any vegetables such as: tomatoes, onions, peppers, cucumbers, kohlrabi, carrots, beets, turnips, rutabagas, zucchini.

• Small-sized - Show twelve each of any vegetables such as: peas, lima beans, green beans, ground cherries.

• The exhibit must be produced at home or by a close relative. CANNOT BE STORE PURCHASED.

Exhibit Suggestions:

• Garden plans; soils; fertility; seeds; varieties; plant science (anatomy and physiology); pests; nutrition; crossbreeding & hybrids; genetics; a mini garden planted in a tub, pail, or large planter.

• Vegetable Gardening box: using quantity/size requirements above, display six different kinds of vegetables in a box or clear container. For example: 1 large variety + 3 medium varieties + 2 small varieties.

• Vegetable plate: display an example of one vegetable (same variety) on a disposable plate, using quantity requirements for small, medium, or large specimens above.

• Largest Vegetable: exhibit your largest squash, cabbage, pumpkin, melons, or tallest stalk of field corn (should have roots on the stalk).  Include date planted.

Limit 2

Veterinary Science is a more in-depth project exploration around veterinary science topics. Be prepared to discuss research techniques and source information as part of the project judging.

Exhibit Suggestions:

Technology or industry advancements in veterinary science; diseases of animals focusing on the history, management, prevention, etc.;  different medications focusing on dosage, records, implications of use, impact on the industry; surgical and nonsurgical procedures; careers.

 Judged July 24 with Communication Judging

Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Videos; video short; service announcement; how a video camera works; caring for video equipment; computer video creation; video editing; pre-production plans, projected audience, storyboard scripts, etc. for a video.

Requirements:

• It is recommended that the video/filmmaking exhibit be 3-5 minutes and no longer than 10 minutes.

• All video/filmmaking exhibits must be made by the exhibitor OR by a production team of which the exhibitor must be a member  

• All video/film footage exhibited must have been made/created DURING THE CURRENT 4-H YEAR. When appropriate, (i.e. historical sequences) older video clips can be used.

• Video/film must be presented on DVD, flash drive or CD. Video/film must be playable on Windows, use file format including .WMV, .FLV and .MPEG, .AVI, .MOV, .AVCHD, .MPEG-1, .MEG-4, as well as a playable DVD. Participants are also allowed to upload their video to YouTube. 

• Video/film needs to be in presentation form, including a title and credits

• The video/film must be original material. Any video/film exhibit, which appears to contain copyrighted material, including music, will not be publicly displayed unless the exhibitor has written permission from the producer to use the material in the video/film. Portions and music from other sources must be documented and have a copyright release.

• Video Release form - it is important to learn how to use this form when including any person in your video that is NOT in 4-H.  This verifies that the subject has agreed to be in your video.  Keep this signed form in a file. Here is a link to the Photo & Video Release form in English, Spanish, Hmong and Somali.

• 4-H videos must adhere to G or PG (parental guidance) standards. The 4-H Code of Conduct requires respectful behavior, so you may not depict: violence, obscene language (or naughty words) including swearing, rude interactions or insults, or use or visibility of guns or fighting, etc. Remember not only teens and pre-teens view the videos but young children and their parents. Keep this in mind when creating your video.

Note: This is not a slideshow (see Manipulated Photography for slideshow)

Limit 2

Wildlife biology and management is about taking care of and protecting animals in their natural habitats to ensure their well-being and the balance of nature. Wildlife management is like being a guardian for animals and their homes. It's about making sure they have enough food, clean water, and safe places to live. Wildlife managers also help sick or injured animals and make sure there is a good balance in nature so all animals can thrive.

Exhibit Suggestions:

Wild animals of Minnesota-habitat, diet, and shelter needs; wildlife management plan; basic concepts of Wildlife Management (waterfowl wingboards, birdhouse trails, carrying capacity, game animal habitat requirements, history of game management, etc); factors that threaten or endanger animal species; animal extinction; animal shelter or feeder; wildlife encounters; collection of identified wildlife scat (droppings), skulls or skins;  wildlife classification; wildlife landscape habitat plan; animal adaptations, such as animal camouflage; food chain/web of a particular habitat; life cycle of your favorite wild animal; shadow or volunteer at a nature center or park; rules and policies in place to protect or manage certain species of wildlife; plant identification/mount, animal signs, tracks, homes, or food; bird study; collection of wildflowers. 

Requirements:

• All wild game used in exhibits must be tagged appropriately according to state laws.

Limit 2

Exhibit Suggestions:

Your 4-H youth leadership journey, or your leadership in an organization within your school or community; a conference or retreat you attended; personal development plan you have implemented; career and/or college prep portfolio; how you’ve built understanding of self, developed communication skills, learned how to work with others, developed understanding of making decisions, and/or managing and/or working in groups; lesson plan you’ve developed; meeting outline or agenda; participation in leadership programs; share how you have taken the lead on a service project, and what leadership skills you gained through the project.; share how you have served as a mentor and/or teacher to younger youth.

Requirements:

• Members exhibiting in this project should be prepared to discuss and/or have written information about what they learned about their ability to lead a project.

• Members should share how they’ve built an understanding of self, developed skills, learned how to work with others, overcome obstacles or adjusted goals, developed understanding of making decisions, and/or managed and or worked in groups.