KL 4-H Newsletter — February 2026
Send articles to cynthia.rogers@maine.edu
Upcoming Events and Important Dates
February 6 Volunteer Huddle — Igniting Youth Sparks: Hands-On Strategies for 4-H Volunteers, 12 – 12:30 pm, online
February 12 Knox-Lincoln 4-H Leaders Association Meeting, 6 pm, Zoom only
February 12 Deadline to register for 4-H Intro to Artificial Intelligence Club
February 12 Deadline to register for the Maine App Challenge
February 13 NEW Extended Deadline to register for Maple Sugaring 101
February 18 Volunteer Connections — AI for 4-H: What to Know and How to Use It, 6:30 – 8 pm, online
February 23 Deadline to register for Speak Up, Knox-Lincoln 4-H! A Public Speaking Event (3/7)
February 28 NEW Extended Deadline to apply for Oxton Trust grant funds
March 1 Deadline to email presentation slides for Speak Up, Knox-Lincoln 4-H!
March 1 Deadline to apply for 4-H Foundation Post-secondary Scholarships
March 1 4-H Dairy Team ESE Intent Forms Due
March 6 Volunteer Huddle — Prepare for the Fair, 12 – 12:30 pm, online
March 7 Speak Up Knox-Lincoln 4-H! Public Speaking Showcase, 1 – 4 pm, Extension office, Waldoboro, snow date 3/14 (register by February 23)
March 7 Maine 4-H Dairy Quizbowl Tryouts, 10 am, Augusta
March 12 Knox-Lincoln 4-H Leaders Association Meeting, 6 pm, Knox-Lincoln Extension office, Waldoboro, or ZOOM
April 11 Speak Up Maine 4-H! Public Speaking Showcase, UMaine Orono (snow date 4/12)
April 17 Maine 4-H Sheep ESE Intent to Participate form due
February Birthdays
Happy Birthday to Leah O., Marcus O., Ayanna L., Nora N., and Beatrix C.!
Register for Speak Up Knox-Lincoln 4-H!
Speak Up, Knox-Lincoln 4-H! Public Speaking Showcase will be held on Saturday, March 7, 1–4 pm (snow date March 14). What are you passionate about? What are you learning about? This is a safe space to share your sparks with fellow 4-H’ers, leaders, family, and friends! Speak Up, Knox Lincoln 4-H! will be held on March 7 from 1–4 pm at the Knox-Lincoln Extension office (snow date March 14). Information and resources for helping you prepare a talk can be found on the Maine 4-H Public Speaking website.
Register for Speak Up, Knox-Lincoln 4-H! by February 23.
Maine 4-H Public Speaking Updates
Save the Date! Speak Up Maine 4-H state public speaking showcase will be on Saturday, April 11 on the University of Maine Orono campus (snow date April 12)!
You asked, we’re excited! Performing Arts demonstrations will now be part of Speak Up, Maine 4-H the statewide Public Speaking Program. From dramatic monologues to musical performances, this creative category is your time to express yourself and share your spark center stage.
Performing Arts demonstrations include:
• a spoken introduction
• your performance
• and a spoken conclusion
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.
4-H Volunteers Honored at 2026 Annual Meeting of KLLA
A small group of 4-H volunteers from Knox and Lincoln Counties attended the 2026 Annual Meeting of the Knox-Lincoln 4-H Leaders Association on January 8. We shared a meal of bouillabaisse full of seafood, and a delicious green salad.
Valerie Jackson was honored as 4-H Volunteer of the Year for her work mentoring a new treasurer, as well as her constant support for 4-H at Union Fair. Val is always there when we need her, and we will miss her presence as she has stepped down from her role as livestock coordinator at Union Fair. Fortunately, she will remain as a Knox-Lincoln 4-H volunteer and part of the leader’s association.
4-H Project Records—Start Them Now!
Members, have you started your 4-H Project Record yet? It is best to start them early, set your goals, and record your progress throughout the 4-H year.
To encourage more complete project records (include more of the optional sections), the Knox-Lincoln 4-H Leaders’ Association awards extra effort beyond the basic record with higher award amounts when records are evaluated. In other words, the more components that you complete well, the higher the value of your award can potentially be. Based on the judges’ evaluations, awards will range from $20 to $50 “award value” depending on quantity and quality of work presented. Project Record forms and instructions can be found online.
4-H Camp and Program Scholarships Offered
The Knox-Lincoln 4-H Leaders’ Association offers scholarships to Knox-Lincoln 4-H members to be used to attend educational camps and programs. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, as they are submitted, through the year, or until available funds run out. Be sure to indicate in your application what date scholarship funds are required by the program.
Applications will be reviewed by the Knox-Lincoln 4-H Leaders Association. The amount of the scholarships will be determined by the funds available in a given year and the number of qualified applicants. Download the KL 4-H Camp Scholarship application online or request a paper copy by contacting Cindy Rogers at 207.832.0343 (in Maine 800.244.2104) or cynthia.rogers@maine.edu.
Oxton Trust Grant Applications Now Due February 28, 2026
Through the generosity and foresight of Robert Oxton, the Oxton Trust Fund was established to support 4-H youth development programs and activities in Knox and Lincoln Counties. The funds are available annually. Clubs, volunteers, and members should anticipate what funds they expect to request for the entire 2026 calendar year and apply for funds to the Oxton Trust Committee by the extended deadline of February 28, 2026.
If a club, volunteer, or member discovers a need for funds later in 2026, a special meeting of the committee can be called, and an application considered at any time. Funds available for mid-year requests, however, will be more limited.
Grants may be awarded for 4-H youth development programs and projects falling into one of the following areas: leadership, youth development, and special programs. Applications can be submitted by 4-H staff, volunteers or members enrolled in the Knox and Lincoln Counties 4-H program. The Oxton Trust Application is available online or can be requested by contacting the Knox-Lincoln Extension office.
2026 Maple Sugaring 101: From Sap, to Syrup, to Sales
Maple Sugaring 101 is a virtual program open to Maine youth ages 10+ who are interested in learning about the entire maple sugaring process and how to create a commercial grade syrup. Participants will learn about forest management, tapping trees, transporting sap, using an evaporator, grading and storing syrup, and operating a maple sugaring business. The program will be three one-hour sessions on Zoom:
Virtual Session – Unit 1: Woods Work, Monday, February 23, 2026, 4:30 – 5:30 pm
Virtual Session – Unit 2: Sugarhouse, Monday, March 2, 2026, 4:30 – 5:30 pm
Virtual Session – Unit 3: Kitchen and Business, Tuesday, March 10, 2026, 4:30 – 5:30 pm
Independent club members or youth who are interested in the program but are not a member of a participating club are welcome to register! If you are interested in this program, please complete the Maple Sugaring 101 interest form so we can follow up with you about registration.
Club leaders who would like to have their club participate in this program, please contact your 4-H County Professional or Andrew Hudacs by Friday, February 13, 2026: andrew.hudacs@maine.edu, 207.581.8204. For more information, please visit the Maple Sugaring 101 webpage.
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 for 4-H Intro to Artificial Intelligence Club
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 for the Maine App Challenge
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 7 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, Junior ages 9 – 11 and Senior ages 12 – 18. If you plan to participate, please notify Sadee Mehuren via email at sadee.mehuren@maine.edu so that we can prepare for the event.
For more information or a reasonable accommodation, please contact Sadee Mehuren at 207.342.5971 or sadee.mehuren@maine.edu.
Maine 4-H Dairy Team ESE Intent Forms Due March 1, 2026
The 2026 Maine 4-H Dairy Eastern States intent to participate form is available online. 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.
Maine 4-H Sheep ESE Intent to Participate Form Now Available
The 2026 Maine 4-H ESE Sheep Intent to Participate Form is now available online and must be submitted by April 17, 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.
4-H Volunteer Corner
Your corner for connection, tips and tricks for Positive Youth Development
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!
February 6, 2026 — Igniting Youth Sparks: Hands-On Strategies for 4-H Volunteers — 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.
March 6, 2026 — Prepare for the Fair — 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
February 18, 2026 6:30 – 8 p.m. — AI for 4-H: What to Know and How to Use It
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 for 4-H Volunteer Connections.
Save the Date
Mark your calendars and save the date! We are hosting a conference for Maine 4-H Volunteers on Saturday, November 7! You are not going to want to miss it! More details to come in the upcoming months!
4-H Volunteer Opportunities Calendar
Find our 4-H volunteer training opportunities on our 4-H Volunteer Calendar — scroll to the bottom of the page to subscribe to the calendar and never miss upcoming events, workshops, and more!
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