KL 4-H Newsletter — May 2026
Send articles to cynthia.rogers@maine.edu
Upcoming Events and Important Dates
May 11 Registration open for 4-H members to June Jamboree, Blue Hill Fairgrounds (June 12 – 13)
May 14 Knox-Lincoln 4-H Leaders Association Meeting, 6 pm, online only
May 16 – 17 Northeast Livestock Exposition (NELE), Windsor Fairgrounds
May 22 Registration open for 4-H members to the 4-H Summer Learning Series (general public may register June 5)
June 5 Fryeburg Fair Market Lamb Intent to Sell form due
June 11 Knox-Lincoln 4-H Leaders Association Meeting, 6 pm, Union Fairgrounds, in person
June 12 – 13 4-H June Jamboree, Blue Hill Fairgrounds
June 30 4-H Animal Approval and Lease forms due (some commodity exceptions; refer to 4-H Animal Science Resources)—Find tips on filling out these forms in an article below.
July 1 Union Fair 4-H Livestock Show entry forms due at the Extension office
July 1 Union Fair 4-H Individual Exhibition Yurt entry forms due at the Extension office
May Birthdays
Happy Birthday to Paytyn D. and Kyra B.!
Speak Up Maine 4-H!
Speak Up Maine 4-H! public speaking showcase was held on April 11 at the University of Maine in Orono. All six Knox-Lincoln youth who qualified at the county showcase presented that day. Great work, everyone!
Sabrinnah D. Senior Illustrated Talk Unbreakable
Mariyah L. Senior Performing Arts Violas Get the Melody
Kyra B. and Isabella L. Senior Team Demonstration The Basics of Slime
Luke L. Junior Illustrated Talk From Wheels to Whiskers: Caring for Hamsters
Charlotte R. Junior Illustrated Talk Olympic Snowboarder Su Yiming
Thank you to families who provided transportation for youth to attend. It is a big, busy day! A big thank you to volunteers and staff from Knox and Lincoln Counties who helped out with the state event: Ryan LeShane, Cindy Rogers, Linda Bonin, Carrie Burrudge, Sadie Olmsted, Nathan Dube, and Nancy Wood. It takes everyone to make this event happen!
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.
Enter the 2025 Knox-Lincoln 4-H Photo Contest
Keep taking photos for the Knox-Lincoln 4-H Photography Contest 2026! The top photos per age category will be exhibited in the 4-H Gallery at the Knox-Lincoln Extension office.
This contest is open to any Knox-Lincoln 4-H member age 9 and up. Entries will be accepted through September 30, 2026. Members can enter up to four photos taken between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026. Request a link to the online 4-H Photo Contest Entry form, and upload up to five photos right in the form. Keep snapping those great pics! Contact Cindy Rogers at 207.832.0343 or cynthia.rogers@maine.edu for the entry form link, or if you have questions.
Have You Received Your 4-H Union Fair Information Book?
The 4-H Union Fair Information Book, your best source for 4-H participation at Union Fair, was mailed directly to families this year. It will also be posted soon on the Union Fair website. Feel free to contact 4-H staff if you have questions. The Union Fair is scheduled August 5 – 9, 2026.
Get Ready for Union Fair!
Don’t miss any deadlines for participating in Union Fair August 5 – 9, 2026. Use your 4-H Newsletter and the 2026 4-H Union Fair Information Book to keep you on-track with paperwork, entry form deadlines and more!
June 30 4-H Animal Approval and Lease Forms for most commodities are due.
July 1 Entry forms for 4-H Livestock Shows (Rabbit and Cavy, Small Domestic Pet, Working Steer) and the 4-H Exhibition Yurt are due.
July 15 Clubs: Sign up for 4-H Club Exhibit space and tell us what your Gift Basket theme will be.
July 31 Members 4-H age 5 – 8: sign up for 4-H Cloverbud Demonstrations.
Tips for Filling Out the 4-H Animal Approval Form
Any 4-H youth age 9 – 18 who plans to participate in 4-H livestock shows in 2026 must complete and submit an Approval Form for 4-H Animal Shows. If a member is leasing an animal to show, a Maine 4-H Contract for Rental/Lease of All Animals is also required. Both are available for download, or ask for a paper copy at your extension office. Animal Approval forms are NOT required for showing rabbits, cavies, poultry, or small domestic pets (except dogs, which DO require the Animal Approval form). Both of these forms are due June 30 for most commodities. Please refer to the 4-H Animal Science Resources for information specific to your commodity.
When filling out your Animal Approval Form, please keep the following in mind:
- When downloading, be sure to select “shrink to fit page” so that information is not cut off the edges.
- Print form 2-sided.
- Your club leader (or advisor for independent member) must sign on the line immediately after last entry in the list of animals. Be sure to leave time for this before the due date.
- 2-sided, signed ORIGINAL forms must be received at your county Extension office no later than the due date.
4-H staff will keep original for office records and return an official, embossed photocopy to you. This embossed copy is what you will need to have with you each time you participate in a 4-H livestock show. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact your club leader or 4-H staff.
Plan Your 4-H Club Exhibit—Independents, too!
4-H Club Exhibits at Union Fair may be submitted by 4-H clubs and pairs or groups of independent members enrolled in Knox or Lincoln Counties. Any club or sub-group within a Knox-Lincoln club can enter a club exhibit. Independent members can work together with other independents on one exhibit. Refer to complete rules in the 4-H Union Fair Information Book. To reserve exhibit space, please contact Cindy Rogers at 207.832.0343 or cynthia.rogers@maine.edu by July 15.
Gift Basket Fundraiser for KLLA at Union Fair
We are bringing back the gift basket raffle at Union Fair! The raffle, which benefits Knox-Lincoln 4-H, will once again feature themed gift baskets filled with quality items donated or made by KL 4-H clubs. Each club is asked to come up with a theme for the club basket and notify Cindy Rogers (207.832.0343, cynthia.rogers@maine.edu) of the theme by July 15. Then the club should fill a large basket or other container with items relating to the theme as a prize for the raffle. We ask that these items be new and high-quality or handmade by 4-H club members, with a total basket value of at least $50.
Ideas for a basket might be a pet care basket, a fancy foods basket (no chocolate, though…it melts in August!), a gardening basket, a family games basket, a Made in Maine basket…etc. Remember that the basket should appeal to a broad public audience, not necessarily matching your club’s focus. Think about what will sell lots of tickets!
2026 4-H Summer Learning Series
It’s that time of year again – the 4-H Summer Learning Series is coming right along, and registration will open for enrolled Maine 4-H members on May 22, and for the general public on June 5. Workshops will cover all different topics — favorites like Adulting 101 and Dissect and Detect, as well as loads of new areas: Intro to Game Lab, Mission to Mars, Science, and Art! Workshops will run from July 6 – August 7. Find out more on the 4-H Summer Learning website.
The Alfond Grant
Hey there! Do you have a child or grandchild born in Maine on or after January 1, 2013? Guess what? They’ve got something special called a $500 Alfond Grant waiting for them! (The Grant was also available on a more limited basis from 2008 to 2012).
The Alfond Grant is a jumpstart for a child’s education after high school. By the time they graduate high school, their Alfond Grant could be worth up to $2,000! The great part is that the Alfond Grant can be used for all sorts of education, such as college, trade school, or even certificates. And it can be used in Maine as well as outside the state. Curious to know more? Check out www.MyAlfondGrant.org to get all the details. This grant is just the beginning of exciting possibilities for your child’s future education!
Animal Science Challenge
The Maine 4-H Foundation is offering a challenge to 4-H animal science committees and programs. The Foundation will match up to $3,000 per committee to support animal science programs and educational programs. A 1 to 1 match will be made for current and past donors, and 1:2 matches for new donors. Questions can be asked by contacting Susan Jennings at 207.615.7300, or email maine4hfoundation@gmail.com.
Hancock County June Jamboree
June Jamboree is back for another exciting weekend, and you’re invited! The 2026 June Jamboree will be held on June 12 – 13 at the Blue Hill Fairgrounds in Hancock County. 4-H’ers can plan to camp with us on the fairgrounds on June 12, and wake ready to participate in fun-filled workshops and activities on June 13! June Jamboree Workshops will include hands-on crafts, engineering, and animal science. The “Anytime Science” and “Anytime Craft” tables will run between workshops all day on Saturday, June 13 — be sure to stop by to explore! Registration will open to enrolled 4-H members on May 11. Workshops are first-come, first-served, so don’t delay! The public may begin registering on May 18. Registration closes June 6, so don’t forget to sign up!
NELE- Youth Livestock Opportunity for 4-H Members!
Join the Northeast Youth Livestock Expo (NELE) for a weekend of youth livestock education at the Windsor Fairgrounds on May 16 and 17.
Saturday is packed with interactive events, including a boer goat show, working steer demonstration, and beef judging clinic. After lunch, Dr. Colt Knight brings an engaging and entertaining look at the history of pork and where various cuts come from. Saturday afternoon offers three hands-on learning paths: cattle artificial insemination training led by Dr. Colt W. Knight, public speaking seminar and contest led by John Brubaker, and a sales talk seminar and contest led by Sydney Wilson.
Sunday continues with species-focused learning, featuring dairy and sheep clinics led by experienced industry leaders Elizabeth Menard, Sarah, and Alyssa Rowe. The weekend wraps up with live equipment and handling demonstrations from the Maine Sheep Breeders Association and ArrowQuip Equipment.
Whether you’re looking to improve your show skills, gain industry knowledge, or try something new, NELE offers something for every level of experience. For more information or to register visit the Northeast Livestock Exposition website. For details concerning the event, please reach out to NELE at mainelivestockexpo@gmail.com or visit the NELE Facebook page.
It’s Time to Think About Summer Camp!
Looking to take your Maine 4-H Experience to a new level? Check out the summer programs at your UMaine 4-H Camps! Opportunities for living in community, making new friends, building a sense of belonging, and honing your skills in a whole variety of program options such as, outdoor skills, shooting sports, STEM, creative arts, ecology, gardening, teamwork, and teen leadership. Each camp has scholarship opportunities to off-set tuition costs and your County 4-H Programs have scholarships to attend camp too. One to three-week sessions available in both day and overnight settings. We hope to see you there!
Knox-Lincoln 4-H members: Apply for Camp Scholarship funds!
- Blueberry Cove, Tenants Harbor, Knox County, Dates: June 21 – August 14, 2026.
- Bryant Pond, Bryant Pond, Oxford County, Dates: June 21 – August 14, 2026.
- Greenland Point, Princeton, Washington County, Dates: June 28 – July 31, 2026.
- Tanglewood, Lincolnville, Waldo County, Dates: June 21 – August 21, 2026.
Bryant Pond and Greenland Point contact, Bethany: 207.665.2068
Tanglewood and Blueberry Cove contact, Emma: 207.789.5868
Early College Outdoor Intensives
The UMaine 4-H Camps and Learning Centers at Tanglewood and Greenland Point are each offering Early College programs in conjunction with the University of Maine Division of Lifelong Learning. KPE 265 is a 3-credit course focused on skills in outdoor recreation. This is an introductory course in outdoor and adventure activities, forming the foundation of an outdoor leadership education. The course focuses primarily on participation in four different activity categories: canoeing; bouldering and climbing; hiking and orienteering; and challenge course. KPE 207 is a 1-credit course where participants become certified in wilderness first aid (WFA) and CPR.
Registration: Participants must complete enrollment with the University of Maine Early College Program. Once that is completed we will send you an invitation to enroll for the Tanglewood portion of the program.
UMaine tuition for this course is free for Maine high school students (public school and homeschoolers).
Tuition for out-of-state students and Maine private school students is $149 for 2026 per credit for a total fee of $596 for 2026. (Please note there is an overnight fee for this course for all participants).
Overnight fees: $900, including all housing, meals, and certification fees, scholarships available.
Tanglewood:
Dates: July 19 – 31, 2026
Ages: 15 – 18
Visit Early College Outdoor Intensive – Tanglewood for more information and registration links.
Email extension.tanglewood4h@maine.edu directly with any questions.
Greenland Point
Dates: August 2 – 12, 2026
Ages: 16 – 18
Visit Early College Outdoor Intensive – Greenland Point for more information and registration links.
Email extension.greenlandpoint@maine.edu directly with any questions.
New 4-H Rabbit and Poultry Opportunity!
4-H members now have an exciting new opportunity to showcase their skills at The Big E’s first 4-H Rabbit and Poultry Show! Open to youth ages 12 and above, this event is a great way to learn new skills, compete in regional 4-H shows, and connect with others who share an interest in rabbits and poultry.
Participants can look forward to a variety of engaging activities, including breed shows, showmanship competitions, agility contests, and more. Whether you’re experienced or just getting started, this event offers something for everyone. Interested in participating or learning more? Be sure to complete the ESE Rabbit and Poultry interest form.
For more information contact Sadee Mehuren at 207.342.5971 or sadee.mehuren@maine.edu.
Fryeburg Market Lamb Intent Forms Due June 5, 2026
Intent forms for Fryeburg Fair market lambs are now available online. Market Lambs must be owned and in possession of 4-H’er by June 1, 2026, and must be a castrated male. To be eligible for participation, 4-H members must meet the following requirements: send Intent to Sell Form, original bill of sale/value of lamb statement, and pictures of your animal (front and side view) to your county office by June 5.
Animal approval forms for lambs must include the scrapie tag number and list “Fryeburg Sale” as the show class. Additional requirements as well as the fillable online form can be found online on our Fryeburg Fair information page. For more information contact Sadee Mehuren at 207.342.5971; sadee.mehuren@maine.edu or the State 4-H Office at 207.581.3877.
4-H Working Steer Tryout Information
The show season is fast approaching! Working Steer ESE intent forms (due May 1), volunteer interest forms, team member guidelines, and apprentice guidelines are all available on the 4-H Working Steer Animal Science page. The dates for team tryouts are listed below.
June 14 Windsor Fairgrounds
July 11 Ossipee Valley Fair
August 13 Skowhegan Fair
If you have any questions, contact Hillary Arsenault, ESE coordinator, at maineworkingsteer@gmail.com; 207.592.3320 or Sadee Mehuren at sadee.mehuren@maine.edu; 207.342.5971
UMASS Vet Science Academy
Massachusetts 4-H Animal Science and UMASS Vet Science will be welcoming students, ages 13 to 18, interested in veterinary science as a potential career to the UMASS Hadley Farm. There will be two sessions to choose from: Session 1 will be Saturday, June 13 and 14. Session 2 will be June 15 and 16. Youth will be learning about the wide range of opportunities in this profession and will get tons of hands-on animal experience. Youth will be staying overnight in a UMASS dorm!
Register for UMASS Vet Science Academy, Session One
Register for UMASS Vet Science Academy, Session Two
If you are not a Massachusetts 4-H’er, you will need to create a profile. Please select “state office” as your county. Registration will stay open until all slots are filled. Fees for this program will be $175 per attendee. Visit the UMASS Vet Science Academy payment page to pay. Financial assistance is available. Got questions? Contact Andrew at asamuelson@umass.edu.
4-H Volunteer Corner
Your corner for connection, tips and tricks for Positive Youth Development
Showcase Your Sense of Belonging!
Okay, Maine 4-H volunteers, tell us what you do with your club or group members to create a sense of belonging. It can be an example that includes youth, families, and new participants. Fill out the Sense of Belonging Entry Form to highlight one example of how you and/or your 4-H youth create a sense of belonging in your club! Your name will be entered into a drawing for some cool 4-H swag! You make a difference! Tell us how you do it!
Did You Mark Your Calendar?
The Maine 4-H Volunteer Summit is going to be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at the Maine Arts Academy in Augusta! More details to come in the upcoming months, 4-H volunteers from across the state will enjoy engaging workshops, opportunities to build meaningful connections, and gain fresh ideas to enhance their impact in 4-H programs. Lunch will be provided.
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 – 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!
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.
Resources
With fair season just around the corner, it’s not too early to help your 4-H youth start to think about good sportsmanship! What is it? And how do you demonstrate it? Check out this Michigan 4-H Life Skills Activity: Sportsmanship: What is it? Here are some additional variations of the activity to try:
Ball Toss — Choose some of the qualities listed in the activity and write them in different sections of a beach ball. Have members toss the ball- wherever their left thumb lands, ask them to give an example of how the term connects to sportsmanship.
Gallery Walk — Hang four to six pieces of chart paper around the room — add a word from the activity to each piece of chart paper. Have pairs of youth participate in a gallery walk and add an example of how the word on each poster relates to sportsmanship. Once the pairs return to their original poster, have them share one or two ideas with the whole group.
Roll the Dice — List numbers 1 – 12 on a large piece of paper and list one quality by each number. During your opening circle, have everyone roll the dice- whichever number they roll, they give an example of how that quality relates to good sportsmanship.
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!
University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.