Cooperative Extension in Hancock County

February 2026 4-H Newsletter

4-H Happenings

A monthly newsletter for Hancock County 4-H Members

Table of Contents

Upcoming Dates| County News | Club News | State News | Volunteer News| Leaders’ Meeting Minutes

Upcoming Dates to Remember

February 13 – How Does a Forest Grow? at the Ellsworth Public Library (3:00 pm – 4:00 pm)
February 16 – Office Closed for Presidents’ Day
February 18 – Fish Farm Fun at the Blue Hill Public Library (3:30 pm – 4:30 pm)
February 18 – 4-H Leaders’ Association Meeting – Virtual (6:30 pm)
February 27 – Last day to register for Speak Up, Maine 4-H! Hancock County Showcase
March 2 – Maine 4-H Foundation College Scholarships Due to County Office (see state news)
March 14 – Speak Up, Maine 4-H! Hancock County Showcase (10:00 am)
April 3 – Hancock County Extension Homemakers Scholarship Due to the Office
April 6 – Hancock County 4-H Leaders Association Scholarship Due to the Office

County News

Local 4-H Workshops and Events

Ellsworth Public Library

Blue Hill Public Library

Fish Farm Fun – February 18, 2026 (3:30 pm – 4:30 pm)
Splish Splash! Do you have what it takes to be a fish farmer? Come join Tess from the University of Maine 4-H to be the next future fish farmer!  On February 18, from 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm at the Blue Hill Public Library, youth will have a chance to test their fish-herding skills with a fintastic hands-on activity. We’ll collect, test, and decipher if the water quality of mystery samples is good enough for our beloved pet fish. Youth will also walk away with some basic knowledge about fish health! What a way to spend an afternoon!

Speak Up, Maine 4-H: Showcase Your Spark!

Our Speak Up Workshop last month proved once again that this county is home to some truly incredible young speakers. 🌟

It was a joy to witness the camaraderie in the room. The participants didn’t just practice their own sets; they actively listened, offered valuable peer feedback, and championed one another every step of the way. That spirit of mutual support is what makes our public speaking program so special. We hope to see many of our 4-H youth at our showcase in March!

Public Speaking!

Attention Hancock County! Do you have youth who LOVE to talk? Or maybe some kids who want to step out of their comfort zone? Join us for a wonderful showcase of everyone’s sparks through our Speak Up Showcase!

This year, we’ve made a few exciting changes to our program, and we can’t wait to see what our 4-Her’s make of them. First, our judging sheets have received a little update. These new sheets have ample space for judges’ feedback and include a few new aspects for judging presentations. Be sure to check them over as you begin to prepare for the showcase this year.

In addition to the new feedback forms, we also have a new category! Youth asked, and we heard loud and clear that they were in need of additional avenues to share their sparks. This year, we are launching the Performing Arts category – it’s time for our musicians, dancers, actors, singers, and more to shine!

Specific details, including updated evaluation tools and judges’ support for all categories, are now available on the Speak Up, Maine 4-H website and through county staff.

Save the Date: All of our 4-H youth are invited to prepare for this year’s Hancock County 4-H Speak Up Showcase, which will be held on Saturday, March 14 at 10 am; location TBD. Please register by February 27 for the county showcase. The state Speak Up Showcase will be held on Saturday, April 11th at the University of Maine in Orono. The snow date is Sunday, April 12. 

College Scholarships

• Merit-based college scholarships are available to past and present members of Hancock County 4-H thanks to the generous support of the Hancock County 4-H Leaders Association. Recipients must complete an application, submit all required paperwork, and meet merit-based criteria in order to be eligible for a scholarship, which may vary in amount up to $750. Download an application and submit it to the Extension Office.
  Deadline to apply:  Monday, April 6th, 2026. (PDF).

• Our Hancock County Extension Homemakers group is accepting scholarship applications for the 2026 academic year. A scholarship in the amount of $400 will be awarded to a deserving Hancock County senior who will be enrolling full-time in a college or school. Application forms can be obtained at your local High School Guidance Office or download an application and submit it to the Extension Office. Deadline to apply: Friday, April 3rd, 2026. (PDF).

Club News

Fishing Club: Fishing Club has begun!! We had two meetings in January with 5 youth in attendance.  Denise at Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery made sure to make us feel very welcome with a welcome sign posted at the entrance door and signage directing clubbers to the conference room.  She even popped in to say hi during one of our meetings.

We started each meeting with pledges, followed by an ice breaker game, discussion and a snack.  One of the games was fishing BINGO. A card was held up with a fishing item on it, youth had to identify the object and share why that item would be important in fishing.  We followed up with a fun snack where they each made their own “cup of dirt” using chocolate pudding, crushed Oreo and gummy worms.  The club also discussed a “code of conduct” for during our meeting time and what they each wanted to learn about.  Some of which included helping others learn about fishing, fishing with a group of people, and how to prepare a fishing line and assemble a rod and reel. A couple of the youth had siblings attending the meeting, they didn’t share but enjoyed the game and snack!

Our second club meeting was fantastic with Richard Jagels, the president of “Friends of Craig Brook,” as our guest speaker.   Richard provided each youth with a “Maine Inland Fishing Laws” book and discussed how to use it.  He brought in many different types of reels for the kids to see and shared the history and evolution of modern-day reels,and the variations of construction materials used over the years.  The last thing the group did was a hands-on activity where the youth learned how to tie an improved clinch knot.  This knot would be used to tie a line to a hook or lure.

Clubbers decided that they would like to do fundraisers so that we can buy bait we need and maybe have a bigger fishing trip where we can do saltwater fishing.  We discussed possibly making a fishing vest as a project that we could use for style revue and enter at the fair. The session concluded with an interactive identification activity using fish stickers. The engagement was fantastic; both the youth and their parents enjoyed testing their knowledge to correctly name the species before choosing their favorites to take home.

We hope to continue our meetings with the idea of “units” to easily break down different aspects of fishing.  The club has decided that Ice Fishing will be our first unit to cover and will begin at our next meeting on Friday, February 6^th.

I think that we are all excited, and I look forward to really getting into the topics and watching the youth flourish as they learn more about fishing!

Horse of Course: We were delighted to welcome a local family and their two daughters to our latest meeting. They dropped by to experience our club firsthand and see if it’s the right fit for them. Between sharing stories of our favorite past adventures and our impactful community service projects, we got busy crafting bird feeders together. It was a wonderful afternoon of connection and creativity!

Service Squad: This month, the Service Squad gathered to share our favorite memories we made over the holiday break. It was fun to hear about what our members got up to, and it was also nice to see each other again! Next, we learned about the changes happening with the Speak Up program this year. Leah showed us the new judging sheets, and we walked through what is different and what’s the same. After, we spent some time brainstorming ideas for Speak Up topics to present in Service Squad at the end of February. Some of us may even take our talks to the county showcase.

State News

4-H Intro to Artificial Intelligence Club: The 4-H Intro to Artificial Intelligence Club will provide an introduction to what artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are. This will be a 6 session series for ages 9+ that focuses on the foundations of AI, including introduction to AI, pattern recognition, human versus machine learning, AI in daily life and ethical awareness. Participants will take a closer look at how these are currently being used, learn about what AI does well and what it does not do well and considerations for using AI. Artificial Intelligence has incredible capabilities. This series will reveal some opportunities and challenges of this emerging technology in a safe learning environment.

In this club, youth will explore this emerging powerful technology with guidance and support from 4-H staff.
– Ages: Youth ages 9-18
– Dates/Times: Wednesdays, February 25 – April 1 from 4:00 – 5:00 pm
– Capacity: Limited to 10 youth
– Registration deadline: February 12, 2026
– Register here: extension.umaine.edu/4h/virtual-learning-hub/steam-2/

4-H Maine App Challenge Series: The 4-H Maine App Challenge series will provide an introduction to Tyler Technologies’ Maine App Challenge and provide guided support for developing an app.

This will be a series for ages 13+ that focuses on the foundations of developing a web-based application, including introduction to the Maine App Challenge. Participants will engage in design thinking, prototyping, and problem solving all while going through the process of developing their own app. At the end of the series, participants, if they choose, will be able to submit their application to the Maine App Challenge for the chance to earn valuable prizes, including scholarships totaling $10,000. In this series, youth will engage in hands-on learning, computer programming, and design with guidance and support from experts at Tyler Technologies and 4-H. Participants must be Maine residents. Participants will need access to a computer and be required to create a code.org login. Devices need to be one per participant (sharing a device is not advisable for this session). Tablets and mobile devices do not work with this platform.

Participants must be Maine residents.
– Ages: 13-18
– Dates/Times: Tuesdays, March 3 – 24, 2026, from 4:00 – 6:00 pm
– Registration Deadline: February 12, 2026
– Capacity: Limited to 12 youth
– Register here: extension.umaine.edu/4h/virtual-learning-hub/steam-2/
Note – the Maine App Challenge is open to 4-Hers regardless of participation in this series. 

Maine 4-H Foundation Scholarships: Every year, the Maine 4-H Foundation awards thousands of dollars in scholarships to participants in the Maine 4-H Program pursuing higher education, this participation includes traditional club membership, as well as the many other ways youth can engage with 4-H, including at our Camp and Learning Centers. Dozens of different scholarships are available to applicants, and a single application is used for all. To find out more about available scholarships, and access the application and templates, visit the Maine 4-H Foundation website. Applications are due to your local UMaine Extension county office or one of our 4-H Learning Centers by March 2, 2026.

Maine 4-H Dairy Quizbowl – Save the Date: The 2026 Maine 4-H Dairy Quizbowl tryouts will be held on March 7th at Maine Farm Bureau building in Augusta, ME. The contest will start at 10:00 AM with the written exam, followed by the individual questions portion and then the buzzer rounds. This event will serve as the official tryout for the Maine 4-H Dairy Quizbowl Team. The top four eligible 4-H members will be selected to represent Maine 4-H at The Big E in the regional dairy quizbowl contest in September.

Maine 4-H Dairy Quizbowl tryouts are open to all enrolled 4-H dairy members ages 9-18. Youth will be divided into two age categories, Jr. ages 9-11 and Sr. ages 12-18.

If you plan on attending, please notify Sadee Mehuren via email at sadee.mehuren@maine.edu so that we can prepare for the event. More information is available online at extension.umaine.edu/4h/dairy/dairy-quizbowl/. For more information or a reasonable accommodation, please contact Sadee Mehuren at 207.342.5971 or sadee.mehuren@maine.edu.

Maine 4-H Sheep ESE Intent to Participate Form Now Available: The 2026 Maine 4-H Sheep ESE Intent to Participate Form is now available online and must be submitted by April 17th, 2026. This is a requirement for all youth intending to participate as members of the Maine 4-H Sheep Team at the Eastern States Exposition in September (including teen leads).

The Eastern States Exhibition (Big E) 4-H Sheep Program brings together 4-H members from six states in Springfield, MA for three days of events that showcase their animals, knowledge and skills. Members must be 12-18 years old as of December 31, 2026 and have completed at least one year in a sheep project.

Please contact Megan Cook with any questions or for more information at megan.cook@maine.edu or 207-532-6548.

ESE 4-H Dairy Team Intent Forms are Due March 1, 2026: The 2026 Maine 4-H Dairy Eastern States intent to participate form is available online at extension.umaine.edu/4h/dairy/. In order to be eligible for participation on the Maine 4-H Dairy Eastern States Team next fall, 4-H members must submit their completed intent form online or to the Waldo County Cooperative Extension office before March 1, 2026.

Please contact Sadee Mehuren at sadee.mehuren@maine.edu or 207.342.5971 with any questions.

Volunteer News

February 2026 4-H Volunteer Corner: Your corner for connection, tips, and tricks!

Why Belonging Matters: Young people thrive when they feel safe, accepted, and valued. Belonging gives them the confidence to try new things, take healthy risks, and grow. All youth need to feel included a meaningful way. When youth feel like they belong, it can help reduce feelings of loneliness, isolation, anxiety, and depression by providing supportive relationships and a sense of community.

When youth feel that their ideas matter and they are an important part of a team, it builds their self-confidence and self-worth. 4-H programs emphasize teamwork, cooperation, and communication, which helps members develop strong social skills and build lasting friendships. Belonging to a supportive group helps youth navigate life’s challenges by encouraging them to persevere through adversity, grow from failure and demonstrate resiliency. For adolescents, a sense of belonging is essential for healthy development and helps shape their identity and how they connect with others.

4-H Volunteer Huddle: Join us for a short “gather and learn session” to help you up your game. We meet on the first Friday of each month from 12:00-12:30 pm via Zoom. Whether you are an experienced 4-H volunteer or just getting started, there’s something for everyone. We’d love to see you there! No registration required!

Igniting Youth Sparks: Hands-On Strategies for 4-H Volunteers – February 6, 2026
Discover how to identify and nurture the unique passions, interests, and talents—“sparks”—that inspire young people to thrive. Get hands-on activities
and strategies for igniting and sustaining youth sparks in their 4-H clubs.

Prepare for the Fair – March 6, 2026 
This 4-H volunteer information session will highlight how mentors can guide youth in preparing their animals and themselves for a successful fair experience. Volunteers will learn ways to support members with showmanship skills, animal care, and confidence in the show ring.

Please note: The Zoom link and password will be emailed to all enrolled 4-H volunteers or you can email Tara Wood tara.a.wood@maine.edu to request it.

4-H Volunteer Connections

AI for 4-H: What to Know and How to Use It – February 18, 2026  (6:30 – 8:00 pm)
The webinar will share an introduction to artificial intelligence, ideas for 4-H volunteers, and pitfalls to avoid. No matter your current level of experience, there will be information for you. You will learn what generative AI is and what it is not through real examples of how it might support your 4-H work. Register here!

SAVE THE DATE: Mark your calendars and save the date! We are hosting a conference for Maine 4-H Volunteers on Saturday, November 7, 2026! You are not going to want to miss it! More details to come in the upcoming months!

Leaders’ Meeting Minutes

Via Zoom

Attendees: Lisa Carney, Leah McCluskey, Elaine, Brenda Jordan, Dawn Roberto, and Joanne Jodrey.

The Treasurer’s report has been postponed until next month.
October minutes were accepted as written in the newsletter.

Club Reports:

• Horse of Course – No recent meeting but one is planned for the 22nd.
• 4-H Fishing Club – Planned meetings, played Fishing Bingo, made cup–o-dirt snacks. Guest speaker from Friends of Craig Brook will discuss knots. Fishing derby on Silver Lake on February 15th. 
• Pine Tree Pioneers- Will be meeting this Friday. Did a fundraiser prior to the holidays.
• Service Squad- Met today, focusing on public speaking. Reviewed the judging sheets and changes. 
• Jolly Juniors- Have not met since before the holidays. February is usually the sewing month, and Joanie is planning some cooking projects.

Old Business:

• We still need to discuss building insurance.
• Need to discuss funding an endowment.
• The LA still plans to offer a $750 scholarship, Andrea will send out the information soon.

New Business:

• The State Public Speaking Committee (website) has made some changes this year!
  • Added a new category.
  • Revisited the evaluation sheet and revised, added comments next to each section.
  • More guidance for judges to better explain feedback.
  • Tie the presentation back to 4-H.
  • There is a workshop this Sunday. There will be a virtual workshop as well on February 4th from 6-7pm.
• County Public Speaking – March 14th (snow date the 15th). Location TBD.
• State Public Speaking- April 11th in Orono (snow day the 12th).
• Style Revue – Past few years, we’ve done a workshop during February vacation, see if this might work this year.
• June Jamboree – Weekend of the 12th and 13th.
• Try to hold more in-person meetings in the summer? Leah would like to schedule some.
• Would like to do some volunteer training.

Motion to adjourn at 7:35pm, seconded and approved.

Respectfully submitted by Lisa Carney, Secretary