Livestock
Embedded Files
General Guidelines
General Guidelines
- Cloverbud Livestock Policy: An adult/responsible person (adult/teen leaders, parents, etc.) must be in control of the animal (handling or leading the animal) at all times.
- Members must show their own animals. Exception: herd class, State Fair line-up, or a class where members have more than one animal.
- All beef, dairy, dairy goat, dog, horse, llama-alpaca, meat goat, poultry (doves/pigeons only), rabbit, sheep and swine shown in 4-H livestock shows must have the required State 4-H ID system, ear tag and/or tattoo. Animal ID data must be submitted online, arrive in the Extension office, or be postmarked no later than May 15, 2025 (with the exception of Market Beef due Feb. 18, 2025).
- All livestock must be exhibited in a type class before entering rate of gain, production, lamb lead, herd, or showmanship competition.
- Show committees and 4-H’ers are responsible for cleaning up show arenas following each exhibition.
- Garbage (specifically twine and pop cans) may not be put in manure piles; please dispose of them properly.
- 4-H livestock exhibits may be shown in the open class. Submit entry forms and fees to the Fair Board to meet open class regulations.
- Your animal is your responsibility at the fair. Bring everything you need to feed and care for your animal at the fair including, but not limited to, watering pans, wash pails, hay, straw, grain, and grooming equipment. Equipment is taken care of by the 4-H’er. Members are expected to ensure animals are well cared for and animal areas should be kept clean and neat for the public
- County Fair Fitting Rule: All grooming of livestock, including clipping, trimming and manipulation of hair/wool (such as blocking on sheep, pulling up hair on beef and working up top lines on dairy) must be done by the exhibitor, members of the immediate family or a livestock resource person chosen by the 4-H family. Immediate family members are defined as parents, step-parents, legal guardians, brothers or sisters. A livestock resource person is defined as someone who is working with the 4-H’er/4-H family to help them learn management and fitting and grooming skills in their project area. An identified livestock resource person would be allowed to work with the 4-Her and their family during the fitting and grooming process to guide and teach these skills. The 4-H’er exhibiting the animal must be present and involved in the fitting process at the county fair.
- No animals may be advertised for sale and no farm, ranch, or sale signs may be displayed or worn in the show ring. The only signs other than 4-H stall cards and champion/reserve champion signs that may be displayed are educationally-based signs with performance or pedigree information and signs with the animal’s name. Only decorations that support the 4-H Youth Development Program are allowed.
- Registered market animals must have registration papers solely in the exhibitor's name, the exhibitor's family name, or the family’s farm name; registered breeding animals must have registration papers solely in exhibitor's name, the exhibitor's family name, or the family’s farm name or be under lease from any other owners (including partnerships). Registered breeding animals that are leased may have registration papers in the animal owners name or farm name.
Check-In
Check-In
Livestock exhibits may arrive anytime between noon to 8:00 pm on Tuesday or 8:00 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, July 24. All livestock need to be in place by 8:00 p.m. Wednesday.
Livestock or poultry known by the exhibitor to have an infectious, communicable disease, or have been exposed to such disease, or to be from a quarantined herd or flock, may not be entered in the fair. All livestock will be inspected by the official veterinarian, or their representative, on the opening day of the fair and daily during the fair. The official veterinarian will order the immediate removal from the fair of any livestock with symptoms of infectious or communicable diseases. Warts, ringworm, and abscesses are considered communicable diseases. A statement from a veterinarian that an animal is being treated for these diseases is NOT acceptable.
Livestock Check-in is a two step process: Step 1: All exhibitors will need to check-in at the 4-H Desk in the 4-H General Exhibit Building. At this booth, exhibitors will pick up their backtag numbers, stall cards, and arm bands (if needed) and be able to ask any questions about the check in process. 4-H'ers should notify staff of any changes to their registration for the show catalogs. Poultry exhibitors, be sure to bring your pullorum/statement of origin certificates to this check-in as well.
Step 2: Each exhibitor will check-in with the superintendent or volunteer in their barn to have the animal ID tags/tattoos/etc. verified as well as initial registration information. Please note that superintendents may not be on hand during the entire check-in time, but will come through the barns periodically or have an allotted time to check animals in – please connect with superintendents before the end of the day on Wednesday.
All animals must have their stall cards on display throughout the fair, especially for herdsmanship judging. Make sure you have it displayed in a prominent location or ask for a new one if it gets lost or damaged.
*Please note that entries arriving late CAN NOT be checked in and therefore will be sent home, so be sure you have checked in before 8:00 p.m., or call the office if you are running late due to extenuating circumstances.
Livestock or poultry known by the exhibitor to have an infectious, communicable disease, or have been exposed to such disease, or to be from a quarantined herd or flock, may not be entered in the fair. All livestock will be inspected by the official veterinarian, or their representative, on the opening day of the fair and daily during the fair. The official veterinarian will order the immediate removal from the fair of any livestock with symptoms of infectious or communicable diseases. Warts, ringworm, and abscesses are considered communicable diseases. A statement from a veterinarian that an animal is being treated for these diseases is NOT acceptable.
Livestock Check-in is a two step process: Step 1: All exhibitors will need to check-in at the 4-H Desk in the 4-H General Exhibit Building. At this booth, exhibitors will pick up their backtag numbers, stall cards, and arm bands (if needed) and be able to ask any questions about the check in process. 4-H'ers should notify staff of any changes to their registration for the show catalogs. Poultry exhibitors, be sure to bring your pullorum/statement of origin certificates to this check-in as well.
Step 2: Each exhibitor will check-in with the superintendent or volunteer in their barn to have the animal ID tags/tattoos/etc. verified as well as initial registration information. Please note that superintendents may not be on hand during the entire check-in time, but will come through the barns periodically or have an allotted time to check animals in – please connect with superintendents before the end of the day on Wednesday.
All animals must have their stall cards on display throughout the fair, especially for herdsmanship judging. Make sure you have it displayed in a prominent location or ask for a new one if it gets lost or damaged.
*Please note that entries arriving late CAN NOT be checked in and therefore will be sent home, so be sure you have checked in before 8:00 p.m., or call the office if you are running late due to extenuating circumstances.
Judging
Judging
Livestock and other animal projects are designed to allow youth to learn management practices such as nutrition, shelter, water, environment, breeding, care, etc. of their animal. The assessment of this knowledge, as it is applied to the project, can occur in one or all of the ways listed below. 1. Evaluation of the animal considering its physical characteristics and/or performance.2. Showmanship and knowledge of the exhibitor as displayed in the show ring. How the animal is prepared, groomed and is presented at its optimal level.3. Animal Science Interviews reveal the exhibitor’s knowledge in the animal project area and ability to communicate in an interview setting.
Herdsmanship
Herdsmanship
Members are expected to do the work in giving the animals proper care, fitting the animal, and for meeting showing/stalling requirements. Members may arrange with other 4-H members to care for animals on show day, but the exhibitor retains responsibility. All members exhibiting animals are expected to keep their stock, pens, tack, and stalls in neat and clean condition, and inviting to the public at all times. Herdsmanship will be judged based on cleanliness of aisle, cleanliness of storage area, cleanliness of stalls, and appearance of animals. We encourage a team spirit in keeping the barns neat and clean. 4-H members are expected to do the work, with limited adult supervision. Clubs with parents working may be docked judging points. Herdsmanship judging takes place between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and from noon until 4 p.m. on Sunday. Special consideration will be given on show day. Scoring of clubs will be on the following criteria:Cleanliness of aisle 5Cleanliness of storage area 5Cleanliness of stalls 5Appearance of animals 5
Events
4-H Grilling Contest
4-H Grilling Contest
Saturday, July 26, 4:00 pm, Near the Free Stage/Hoop Building
This Contest is modeled after the Minnesota Meats grilling contest, which has been a big hit at the State Fair during the 4-H livestock encampment. 4-Hers 3rd grade and older, from each species, may assemble a team, and they will prepare and grill a meat cut from their species. Teams will be provided with aprons, charcoal, grills, grilling utensils, preparation utensils, a cut of meat, and basic seasonings. Teams may also bring their own seasonings or rubs. Teams will be given 30 minutes to prepare a final product and will be judged on their final product’s taste and appearance, as well as their team knowledge. Teams will be asked basic nutrition questions about their final product. Register on the poster on the wall in the 4-H exhibit building.
Round Robin Showmanship Contest
Round Robin Showmanship Contest
SHOW: Sunday, July 27, 3:00 pm, Dairy Show Arena
Contest Coordinator: Dwayne Diers
This fun-to-watch contest gives all Champion and Reserve Champion Senior 4-H’ers in Dairy, Beef, Swine, Sheep, Goat, Rabbit, Poultry, and Horse Showmanship a chance to compete for "overall" showmanship honors. Each person will show each species in a mini-competition.
Click for round robin contest information
Contest Description
Contest Description
The Round Robin Showmanship Contest gives an opportunity for the champion senior showmen from the 4-H divisions in each species of large animals to compete head-to-head for best all-round senior showman honors at the fair.
In this contest each contestant will be judged on their showmanship skills with each species of animal - Beef, Dairy, Goat, Horse, Poultry, Rabbit, Sheep, and Swine.
The judge will use a numerical scoring system to grade each individual in each species, with the ultimate winner determined by the total score over all species.
Who Is Eligible
Who Is Eligible
There is no limit on how many times a person may compete in the Round Robin Showmanship Contest over their career. However, an individual 4-H member may only win the Round Robin contest once.
First option to participate is offered to the Senior Champion and Senior Reserve Champion Showmanship winners in each species. Judges are asked to make a list of alternates from among senior showmanship participants.
Listings of eligibility order will be posted in the 4-H general exhibit building. Exhibitors are asked to confirm their participation by Saturday at 4:00.
Animals used in the Contest
Animals used in the Contest
Each contestant is asked to provide an animal in their species of participation to be used in the contest with all showmen showing the same species in the ring at the same time.
Awards
Awards
Awards will be presented to the Champion Round Robin Showmen and premiums of 1st place - $50, 2nd place - $40, 3rd place - $30, and 4th place - $20 will also be added to exhibitor’s fair premium checks.
Fun-with-Goats
Fun-with-Goats
SHOW: Saturday, July 26, 9:30 am, Location TBD
Contest Coordinator: Carol Reinhart
4-H'ers compete on a fun agility course with their goats. Members may borrow another member's goat to compete. Please pre-register.
FFA & 4-H Livestock Judging Contest
FFA & 4-H Livestock Judging Contest
CHECK-IN: Sunday, July 27, 11:00-11:30 am, Dairy Show Arena
CONTEST: Sunday, July 27, 11:30 am-2:00 pm, Dairy Show Arena
Contest Coordinator: Jacob Wilts, jwilts@wrightcountyfair.org
Registration: At the fair!
NEW in 2025: The FFA and 4-H judging contest allows FFA & 4-H members to evaluate breeding and market general livestock (beef cattle, swine, sheep and goats). This Judging contest will consist of 4-6 classes of beef, sheep, swine, and goats. There will be divisions for 14 years and under, 15-17 years, 18-20 years old. Premiums will be paid to division winners. Competitors knowledge of the following will be put to the test:
The parts of the animal and their locations.
Which parts are most important for meat and breeding stock production.
Making keen observations.
Comparing the animal to the ideal.
Weighing the good and bad points of each animal.
General Exhibits for Livestock
If you're nervous about earning a state fair trip in your species - check out these projects that could potentially earn the opportunity to participate in State Fair Livestock Encampment!
Science of Animals
Limit 2 Science of Animals
Register in FairEntry under Exploring Animals - Livestock. Judging is on General Exhibit Entry Day.
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 (4-H'ers may elect to stay for the entire livestock encampment for either).
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).
Livestock Demonstrations
Limit 2 Livestock Demonstrations
Judged Wednesday, July 23 - register your project in FairEntry under Public Presentations and then sign up for a judging timeslot online at http://z.umn.edu/communication!
Members can earn a trip to the state fair during livestock encampment for this project area (4-H'ers who earn a trip are able to stay for the entire livestock encampment). The top livestock demonstration is eligible to bring an animal in their livestock species in addition to doing a livestock demonstration.
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.
Livestock Posters
Limit 5Livestock Posters
Judging and FairEntry registration is with Non-Spoken Communication on General Exhibit Entry Day.
Exhibit Suggestions:
A poster promoting any livestock species; poster educating the public on a livestock related topic.
Requirements:
Display on poster board or tag board 14" wide by 22" high.
Members may move livestock posters to the barns for display after judging (judging will take place during general exhibit judging).
All Llama-Alpaca, Poultry, and Rabbit posters are eligible to be displayed at the state fair (members to not receive a trip for this project) and compete in their poster contests.
Beef
WEIGH-IN & ID Checks: Wednesday, 10:30 am - Noon
PRE-FAIR EXHIBITOR MEETING: TBD
SHOW: Thursday, 9:00 am
INTERVIEWS: Scheduled throughout the fair
STATE FAIR BEEF EXHIBITOR MEETING: Saturday 3:00 pm, Dairy Show Arena
SUPERINTENDENTS: Lilly Gutknecht, Dan Laumann, Stephanie Ende Youth: Justin J, Samantha B, Ellie E
Click for beef information
A * next to a class indicates a State Fair eligible class. It is recommended that classes contain at least three head, when possible, to assure a level of competition. No animal can be shown in more than one class, except for Prospect Calves that are exhibited in the Cow/Calf and Herd classes. Beef market animals will be weighed and shown by weights.
Two entries permitted per class.
Two entries permitted per class.
Breeding Heifer Classes
Two entries permitted per class.Breeding Heifer Classes
Commercial or Registered
* Spring Calf – born Jan 1–May 15, 2025 * Fall Calf – born Sept 1-Dec 31, 2024 * Summer yearling – born May 1-Aug 31, 2024 * Junior yearling – born Jan 1-Apr 30, 2024 * Senior yearling – born Sept 1-Dec 31, 2023Market Classes
Two entries permitted per class. Market Classes
Market Steer
* Market Beef Steer – born Jan 1-Aug 31, 2024Market Heifer
* Market Heifer – born Jan 1-Aug 31, 2024Prospect Calves
Limit one per class. Prospect market calves do not need to be from a cow/calf project. Classes for heifers and steers will be judged as market beef prospects. Prospect market steers must be castrated. *Spring calf - Beef breeds - born Jan 1 - May 15, 2025 Fall calf - Beef breeds - born Sept 1 - Dec 31, 2024 *Spring calf – Beef/dairy crosses - born Jan 1 - May 15, 2025 Fall calf - Beef/dairy crosses - born Sept 1 - Dec 31, 2024*Spring calf - 100% dairy breed – born Jan 1 - May 15, 2025 Fall calf - 100% dairy breed; born Sept 1 - Dec 31, 2024Dairy Steer
* Purebreed Dairy Steer - born Jan 1-Aug 31, 2024 * Crossbred Dairy Steer – born Jan 1-Aug 31, 2024- Recommended minimum weight for State Fair is 1,000 pounds; recommended maximum weight is 1,600 pounds. Pure Breed Dairy Steers must be 100% dairy breed. The following breeds will be accepted without registration papers: Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein, and Jersey. Milking Shorthorn dairy steers must be registered with the American Milking Shorthorn Society and not carry the “S” suffix.
- Dairy Steers showing permanent teeth may be shown, but they can place no higher than a red ribbon and they will not be eligible for State Fair or auction.
- Crossbred Dairy Steers must be at least 50% from the acceptable breeds listed for the Pure Breed Dairy Steer division, with the balance being from any other beef or dairy breed; however, the steers must show adequate dairy steer characteristics, as determined by the screening committee. Exhibitors should be prepared to identify the breeds of their crossbred dairy steer.
Other Classes
Other Classes
Beef Interview (Mandatory)
All exhibitors will take part in a 5-minute interview. Sign up with the Show Committee for time slots at the fair. * Senior Division - Grades 9+ * Intermediate Division - Grades 6-8Junior Division - Grades 3-5Beef Showmanship (Mandatory)
* Senior Division - Grades 11+Intermediate Division - Grades 8-10Junior Division - Grades 5-7Primary Division – Grades 3-4Cow/Calf Pairs
Bull, steer, and heifer calves are eligible. Calf Jan 1 to May 15, 2025. Calf does not need to be ID’d if dairy, but cow must be. At State Fair you can enter the cow/calf class OR prospect market calf class. * 2-year-old cow exhibited with calf * Aged cow exhibited with calfHerd
Herd - Three beef animals. Individual member or club exhibit.Any beef, dairy steers, or market heifers earning a blue ribbon at the fair are eligible to be entered in the 4-H Blue Ribbon Auction. Be sure to pre-register for any/all classes you might be interested in entering an animal in for the auction and confirm final entry at the fair. Beef Steer (1000 lbs.)Dairy Steer (1000 lbs.)Market Heifer (900 lbs.)Dairy
SHOW: Friday, 8:30 am
ID CHECKS: Tues/Wednesday during check-in
PRE-FAIR EXHIBITOR MEETING: Wednesday, 12:30 pm, show arena
INTERVIEWS: Wednesday, 11:00 am -4:00 pm, Outside dairy barn - sign up for a time
STATE FAIR EXHIBITOR MEETING: Sunday after County Meeting
SUPERINTENDENTS: Amy & Bethany Kozitka, Seena Glessing Youth: Sophie S, Mason G
Click for dairy information
A * next to a class indicates a State Fair eligible class. It is recommended that classes contain at least three head, when possible, to assure a level of competition. Cow classes and two-year-olds must be owned or leased prior to first freshening and cannot change hands after.
May exhibit one animal per class/lot combination. If an animal is less than 87% (7/8) of any one breed, it is registers in the “Crossbred” class. Youth in grade 3 are limited to showing in calf, yearling, or two year old classes only for safety reasons.
Dairy Cows
May exhibit one animal per class/lot combination. If an animal is less than 87% (7/8) of any one breed, it is registers in the “Crossbred” class. Youth in grade 3 are limited to showing in calf, yearling, or two year old classes only for safety reasons.Dairy Cows
Holstein Grade, Holstein Registered, Other Breeds, or Crossbred
*Spring Calf – born Mar 1-May 31, 2025 * Winter Calf - born Dec 1, 2024-Feb 28, 2025 * Fall Calf - born Sept 1-Nov 30, 2024 * Summer Junior Yearling - born June 1-Aug 31, 2024 * Spring Junior Yearling - born Mar 1-May 31, 2024 * Winter Senior Yearling - born Dec 1, 2023-Feb 29, 2024 * Fall Senior Yearling - born Sept 1 - Nov 30, 2023 * Milking Yearling - born Sept 1, 2023 or later that has freshened & in milking form * Junior Two Year Old - born Mar 1 - Aug 31, 2023 * Senior Two Year Old - born Sept 1, 2022-Feb 28, 2023 * Three year old cows – born Sept 1, 2021-Aug 31, 2022 * Four year old cows – born Sept 1, 2020-Aug 31, 2021 * Aged Cow - born before Sept 1, 2020 * Dry cow - Of any ageOther Classes
Other Classes
Dairy Showmanship
* Senior Division - Grades 9+ * Intermediate Division - Grades 6-8 Junior Division - Grades 3-5Dairy Interview
Senior Division - Grades 9+ Intermediate Division - Grades 6-8 Junior Division - Grades 3-5Production Class
Limit one cow per member. From an animal being shown at this year’s fair with official DHIA or DHIA owner sampler production records. Judging based on last completed 305-day record, mature equivalent. Please bring Lactation Report showing last completed record to check-in on Entry Day. Holstein Production Non-Holstein Production4-H Herd
Herd - Three dairy animals owned by one exhibitor. Animals that were shown in appropriate type classes.Dairy Goat
BARN SETUP: July 19, 10 am
CHECK-IN: Tuesday: 2-8 pm (encouraged), Wednesday: 8-11 am
INTERVIEWS: Sign up Tuesday-Thursday
SHOW: Wednesday, 5:00 pm (following meat goat show)
STATE FAIR EXHIBITOR MEETING: Wednesday, 12:30 pm
SUPERINTENDENTS: Cristine Nielsen, Nicki Schahn
Click for dairy goat information
A * next to the code indicates a State Fair eligible class. Exhibitor may enter in each class, limited to two entries per class/breed. It is recommended that classes contain at least three head, when possible, to assure a level of competition. If animals are not properly clipped, ribbon will be lowered one placing. For safety reasons all dairy goats must be dis-budded/dehorned. Regrowth of less than ONE INCH allowed.
Dairy Goats
Dairy Goats
Dairy Breeds
* Junior Doe Kid – born Apr 1-June 30, 2025 * Senior Doe Kid – born Jan 1-Mar 31, 2025 * Dry Yearling Doe - born in 2024 * Milking Yearling Doe - born in 2024 * Milking Two-Year Old Doe - born in 2023 * Milking Three to Four Year Old Doe - born in 2021 or 2022 * Milking Five-Years and Older Doe - born before 2021Other Classes
Other Classes
Mother/Daughter Pair
Mother/Daughter pairHerd
Herd - Three animals owned by the exhibitor; one must be a milking doe. No meat or market. Animals that were shown in appropriate type classes.Dairy Goat Showmanship (Mandatory)
* Senior Division - Grades 10+ * Intermediate Division – Grades 6-9 Junior Division - Grades 3-5 and 1st time exhibitorsDairy Goat Interviews (Mandatory)
All exhibitors will take part in a five-minute interview. Sign up for a time slot at the fair. Senior Division – Grades 10+Intermediate Division – Grades 6-9Junior Division – Grades 3-5Meat Goat
BARN SETUP: July 20, 10 am
CHECK-IN: Tuesday: 2-8 pm (encouraged), Wednesday: 8-11 am
WEIGH-IN: Tuesday 2-8 pm
INTERVIEWS: Sign up Tuesday-Thursday
SHOW: Wednesday, 4:30 pm
STATE FAIR EXHIBITOR MEETING: Wednesday, 12:30 pm
SUPERINTENDENTS: Cristine Nielsen, Nicki Schahn
Click for meat goat information
A * next to the code indicates a State Fair eligible class. It is recommended that classes contain at least three head, when possible, to assure a level of competition. If animals are not properly clipped, ribbon will be lowered one placing. Meat breeding, wether dams, and market does may have horns and they do not need to be capped or blunted. However, if an animal is deemed a safety concern at the discretion of the committee, additional safety measures may be required. Exhibitor may enter in each class, limited to three entries per class. Market Animals must be a minimum of 40 pounds.
Born: November 1, 2024-April 30, 2025. Must be disbudded and considered terminal. Cannot be shown in any other classes
Market Goats
Born: November 1, 2024-April 30, 2025. Must be disbudded and considered terminal. Cannot be shown in any other classesMarket Goats
Meat Market Goat- considered terminal at end of season
* Market Goat – altered male, no bucks * Market Goat – femaleDairy Market Goat
* Dairy Market Goat – altered male, no bucks Dairy Market Goat – femaleMeat Breeding Doe
Meat Breeding Doe
Market Breeding Doe (registered or grade)
* Junior Market Breeding Doe, born Mar 1-May 31, 2025 * Senior Market Breeding Doe, born Dec 1, 2024-Feb 28, 2025 * Breeding Dry Yearling Market Doe, born Sept 1, 2023 - Nov 30, 2024—never kiddedOther Classes
Other Classes
Market Goat Showmanship (Mandatory)
* Senior Division - Grades 10+Intermediate Division - Grades 6-9 Junior Division - Grades 3-5Herd
Best Market Herd – Three market animalsMeat Goat Interviews (Mandatory)
All exhibitors will take part in a five-minute interview. Sign up for a time slot at the fair. Senior Division – Grades 10+Intermediate Division – Grades 6-9Junior Division – Grades 3-5 Any animals in the Market Goat or Market Breading Doe classes earning a blue ribbon at the fair are eligible to be entered in the 4-H Blue Ribbon Auction. Be sure to pre-register for any/all classes you might be interested in entering an animal in for the auction and confirm final entry at the fair. Market (40 lbs. minimum)Market Breeding GoatsPoultry
PRE-FAIR CLEAN-UP: July 13, 9:00 am - noon
SHOW: Thursday, 9:00 a.m.
EXHIBITOR MEETING: Thursday, 8:45 am
INTERVIEWS: Thursday - During the show
SUPERINTENDENTS: Randy Wagner, Mark Otto Youth: Cameron W
Click for poultry information
A * next to the code indicates a State Fair eligible class. Exhibitors are limited to one pen of birds per class and no more than ten pens of birds total. Entries in the Show and Hobby class are in addition to this limit. All classes must consist of the same breed and variety. Species champions may be selected at judge’s discretion. All birds need to be leg banded for identification (bands are available at the Extension Office or at fair check-in) and must be accompanied at check-in by required health paperwork. 4-H’ers are responsible for feeding, watering, and caring for their birds every day at fair. Failure to care for your birds could result in disqualification and/or birds being sent home by decision of the show superintendents.
Poultry Showmanship
* Senior Division – Grades 9+ * Intermediate Division – Grades 6-8 Junior Division – Grades 3-5Poultry Interview (Mandatory)
All exhibitors will take part in a five-minute interview. Sign up for a time slot at the fair.Senior Division – Grades 9+Intermediate Division – Grades 6-8Junior Division – Grades 3-5Chickens
* Market pen of two males or two females of same breed emphasizing meat market qualities.* Breeding pen of one male & two females* Bantam Breeding pen of one male & two females* Egg Production pen of two pullets, white egg layers (hybrid)* Egg Production pen of two pullets, brown egg layers (commercial purebred or hybrid; hybrids are preferred)Doves
* Purebred breeding pairDucks
* Market pen of two males or two females of same breed emphasizing meat market qualities.* Breeding pen of one male & two females* Bantam breeding pen of one male & two femalesGeese
* Market pen of two males or two females of same breed emphasizing meat market qualities.* Breeding pen of one male & two femalesGuinea
* Pearls, Whites, and Lavender breeds only. * Market pen of two males or two females – same breed *Breeding pen of one male & two females – same breedQuail
* Market Pen of three birds - same type * Breeding pen of five birds - one male & four females * Laying pen of three femalesTurkeys - Domestic only
* Market pen of two males or two females * Breeding pen of one male & two femalesPigeons
Must be banded with a seamless leg band. * Utility, breeding pair * Utility, young bird male or female (this year’s band) * Fancy, breeding pair * Fancy, young bird male or female (this year’s band) * Flying, breeding pair * Flying, young bird male or female (this year’s band)Show & Hobby (Not State Fair Eligible)
* Other poultry, one bird (no game birds or pheasants), no age limit.Any animals in the below poultry classes earning a blue ribbon at the fair are eligible to be entered in the 4-H Blue Ribbon Auction. Be sure to pre-register for any/all classes you might be interested in entering an animal in for the auction and confirm final entry at the fair. Breeding DucksMarket TurkeysBreeding ChickensProduction Laying ChickensMarket GeeseBreeding TurkeysPigeonsMarket DucksBreeding GeeseMarket ChickensRabbit
PRE-FAIR CLEAN-UP: July 8
CHECK-IN: During regular check-in times
SHOW: Friday, 8:00 a.m.
INTERVIEWS: During Rabbit Show
SUPERINTENDENTS: Dave Delude, Josh Simpson, Hank Mattson, Kristine Johnson Youth: Hunter S, Alex & Charlotte W
Click for rabbit information
A * next to the code indicates a State Fair eligible class. Members may exhibit up to 15 rabbits/pens. A member may exhibit no more than three rabbits of the same age, sex, and breed. The committee reserves the right to combine classes of less than 6. Exhibitors must stay in the show area until they are done showing all classes. Champions and other awards are selected at the judge’s discretion. Rabbit exhibitors should have rabbit carriers at the rabbit show to transport rabbits. No health certificate is required; however, rabbits will be sent home at discretion of official veterinarian upon evidence of ear mites, obvious colds, or conditions requiring treatment. Rabbits are judged according to standards set by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). Purebreds are rabbits recognized by the ARBA, all others are crossbreeds. 4-class rabbits are the small breeds and 6-class rabbits are the large breeds. Interviews will be required for State Fair line-up members 6th grade and older. Sign up for a time slot after the show and sign up on County Fair Registration.
Market rabbits should be 3.5 to 5.5 lbs. and less than 70 days old on show day (born after May 16, 2025). Members must own the doe producing the fryers or meat pen by May 15th and include a portion of the doe’s tattoo in their individual tattoo. For pens, all must be same breed and variety (color). May be purebred or crossbred. To accept a State Fair trip with these, members need back-up animals of same breed that will meet age and weight requirements for State Fair.
* Single Fryer * Pen of Three
Rabbit Fryers or Breeding Rabbits earning a blue ribbon at the fair are eligible to be entered in the 4-H Blue Ribbon Auction. Be sure to pre-register for any/all classes you might be interested in entering an animal in for the auction and confirm final entry at the fair. Rabbit FryersBreeding Rabbit (Doe/Buck)
Rabbit Interviews (Mandatory)
Senior Division – Grades 9+Intermediate Division – Grades 6-8Junior Division – Grades 3-5Rabbit Showmanship (Mandatory)
Please wear long-sleeve shirts of a solid color (no writing or advertising). *Senior Division – Grades 9+Intermediate Division – Grades 6-8Junior Division – Grades 3-5Breeding Rabbits
Breeding Rabbits
Small Breeds
* Junior Buck, under 6 months* Junior Doe, under 6 months* Senior Buck, over 6 months* Senior Doe, over 6 months Small Breeds Include: Dutch, Florida White, Holland Lop, Jersey Wooly, Mini Lop, Mini Rex, Netherland Dwarf, Polish, Rex, American Fuzzy Lop, American Sable, Dwarf Hotot, English Angora, French Angora, Satin Angora, Belgian Hare, Britannia Petite, Standard Chinchilla, English Spot, Harlequin, Havana, Himalayan, Lilac, Lion Head, Rhinelander, Silver, Silver Marten, and Thrianta.Large/Running Breeds
* Junior Buck, under 6 months * Junior Doe, under 6 months * Intermediate Buck, 6-8 months * Intermediate Doe, 6-8 months * Senior Buck, over 8 months * Senior Doe, over 8 months Large breeds include: New Zealand, Satin, American Giant Angora, Belgian Hare, Bevern, Californian, Champagne d'argent, Checkered Giant, American Chinchilla, Giant Chinchilla, Cinnamon, Crème d'argent, Flemish Giant, French Lop, Hotot, English Lop, Palomino and Silver Fox. Running Breeds include Checkered Giant, English Spot, Rhinelander and Tan.Crossbred/Any Other Variety
Judged on condition. If the judge determines that your rabbit meets the standards for a purebred, it will be moved. First class judged.Crossbred/Any Other VarietyMarket Rabbits
Market rabbits should be 3.5 to 5.5 lbs. and less than 70 days old on show day (born after May 16, 2025). Members must own the doe producing the fryers or meat pen by May 15th and include a portion of the doe’s tattoo in their individual tattoo. For pens, all must be same breed and variety (color). May be purebred or crossbred. To accept a State Fair trip with these, members need back-up animals of same breed that will meet age and weight requirements for State Fair. Market Rabbits
* Single Fryer * Pen of Three
Other Classes
Rabbit Fryers or Breeding Rabbits earning a blue ribbon at the fair are eligible to be entered in the 4-H Blue Ribbon Auction. Be sure to pre-register for any/all classes you might be interested in entering an animal in for the auction and confirm final entry at the fair. Rabbit FryersBreeding Rabbit (Doe/Buck)Other Classes
Sheep
WEIGH-IN: Wednesday, 2:00 pm (after goats)
SHEEP SHOW: Friday, 3:00 pm (following Dairy show)
WOOL SHOW: Friday, pm
LAMB LEAD SHOW: Saturday, 8:30 am
LAMB LEAD INTERVIEWS: Saturday Morning (
SUPERINTENDENTS: Jacob Wilts & Aaron Marquette, Youth: Kate O, Isaac M, Natalee M
Click for sheep information
A * next to the code indicates a State Fair eligible class. NEW: Maximum of seven animals total. No more than four market lambs or six breeding ewes. Sheep with evidence of fungus, pink eye, warts, abscesses, or sore mouth will be sent home.
Limit two entries per class. Maximum of six breeding ewes permitted.
May be ewes or wethers. State Fair suggested market lamb weight is 105-170 lbs. White Face can have speckled skin.
* Senior Division – Grade 9+* Intermediate Division – Grades 6-8 Junior Division – Grade 3-5 Cloverbud Division – Grade K-2
NOTE: 4-H’ers who participate in Lamb Lead at the State Fair this year will receive a $30 cash award, provided by the Minnesota Livestock Breeders’ Association (MLBA).
Breeding Ewes
Limit two entries per class. Maximum of six breeding ewes permitted.Breeding Ewes
Registered Lamb, Grade Lamb, or Wool Breed Lamb
* Fall Ewe Lamb - born between Sept 1 and Dec 31, 2024* January Breeding Ewe Lamb - born in Jan 2025* February Breeding Ewe Lamb - born in Feb 2025* March Breeding Ewe Lamb - born in Mar 2025 After March Ewe Lamb - born after Mar 31, 2025* Yearling Ewe - Over 1 yr and under 2 yrs of age & not show evidence of 4 permanent incisors Aged Ewe – Born between Jan 1, 2022 and Dec 31, 2023Market Lambs
May be ewes or wethers. State Fair suggested market lamb weight is 105-170 lbs. White Face can have speckled skin. Market Lambs
Market Lamb (limit two per class)
* Black Face – Born on or after Dec 1, 2024* White Face – Born on or after Dec 1, 2024* Speckled Face – Born on or after Dec 1, 2024Other Classes
Other Classes
Sheep Showmanship
Senior Division, Grades 9+Intermediate Division, Grades 6-8Junior Division, Grades 3-5Breeding Flock
Breeding Flock - Three animals owned by the same exhibitor (may include market wether). Animals there were shown in appropriate type classes.Lamb Lead - Show: Saturday, 8:30 A.M.
Groom and train a sheep and wear an outfit made from at least 60% wool (more than just accessories or socks). Exhibitors will be judged on project knowledge, poise, their outfit, and their lamb. Exhibitors will receive Merit Award ribbons.* Senior Division – Grade 9+* Intermediate Division – Grades 6-8 Junior Division – Grade 3-5 Cloverbud Division – Grade K-2
NOTE: 4-H’ers who participate in Lamb Lead at the State Fair this year will receive a $30 cash award, provided by the Minnesota Livestock Breeders’ Association (MLBA).
Fleece - Judging on Friday, exhibitor need not be present
Wool fleece from sheep representative of exhibitor’s flock, bred and owned by the exhibitor. Fleeces no less than 3" in length but no more than 13 months’ growth. Fleeces that earn a blue ribbon at County Fair are eligible for judging at the State Fair, but the exhibitor does not accompany the entry to State Fair. * One white fleece (limit 2)* One colored fleece (limit 2) Any animals in the market lamb classes earning a blue ribbon at the fair are eligible to be entered in the 4-H Blue Ribbon Auction. Be sure to pre-register for any/all classes you might be interested in entering an animal in for the auction and confirm final entry at the fair. See Auction page for more information and full class listing.Market Lambs (100 lbs.)FleeceSwine
WEIGH-IN/CHECK-IN: Thursday, 8:00 a.m.
SHOW: Saturday, 8:00 a.m.
SWINE INTERVIEWS: Friday - sign up for a time
STATE FAIR EXHIBITOR MEETING: Sunday, 1:00 pm
SUPERINTENDENTS: Barb Sherwood & Michelle Neutz, Youth: Joe N
Click for swine information
A * next to the code indicates a State Fair eligible class. You may bring up to 4 gilts per 4-H’er with a maximum of 3 breeding gilts or 3 market gilts. You may bring up to 3 barrows. No more than 7 hogs per exhibitor. Champion barrows and gilts will never compete, and State Fair auction limitations will be in place. Swine do NOT need to be tested for pseudo-rabies prior to the fair. The swine show will not be terminal. Market hogs will be shown in weight classes. See Swine Information Sheet for weight guidelines. Please bring wood shavings, as needed, for your animals.
** If you do not know if your gilt will be exhibited as breeding or market gilt at the time of registration, please make your best guess. Changes will be allowed between those two classes at check-in.
* Registered Gilt – All Breeds* Crossbred/Commercial Gilts – All Breeds
* Purebred Market Barrow * Crossbred Market Barrow * Rate of Gain
** If you do not know if your gilt will be exhibited as breeding or market gilt at the time of registration, please make your best guess. Changes will be allowed between those two classes at check-in.
Breeding Gilts
Gilt born January, February, or March of current year.* Registered Gilt – All Breeds* Crossbred/Commercial Gilts – All Breeds
Market Gilts
Born on or after January 1 of current year. Recommended farrow date of Feb 1 or after of current year. * Market Gilt – All Breeds* Rate of GainMarket Barrows
All market barrows must be entered in Rate of Gain and will be weighed during the show. Beginning weights to be recorded on ID form by May 15. Barrows will be judged by weight class determined by Show Committee. Born on or after January 1 of current year. Recommended farrow date of Feb 1 or after.* Purebred Market Barrow * Crossbred Market Barrow * Rate of Gain
Swine Interview
Senior Division, Grades 8+Junior Division, Grades 3-7Swine Showmanship
* Senior Division, Grades 8+* Junior Division, Grades 3-7 Any animals in the market barrow or market gilt classes earning a blue ribbon at the fair are eligible to be entered in the 4-H Blue Ribbon Auction. Be sure to pre-register for any/all classes you might be interested in entering an animal in for the auction and confirm final entry at the fair. Market Barrow (200 lbs.)Market Gilts (190 lbs.)Page updated
Report abuse