{"id":15462,"date":"2026-01-07T16:03:53","date_gmt":"2026-01-07T21:03:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/?p=15462"},"modified":"2026-04-13T09:54:11","modified_gmt":"2026-04-13T13:54:11","slug":"4-h-news-washington-january-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/2026\/01\/07\/4-h-news-washington-january-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"4-H News in Washington County &#8211; January 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<h3><strong><a id=\"dates\"><\/a>Dates to Remember<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>January 10: <\/strong>Oh YEA 4-H Teens-Teach-Tech- Princeton<strong><br \/>\nJanuary 15:<\/strong> 2026 Maine 4-H Beef ESE Intent to Participate<br \/>\n<strong>January 17: <\/strong>Oh YEA 4-H Teens-Teach-Tech- Milbridge<strong><br \/>\nJanuary 21:<\/strong> 4-H Volunteer Connections<br \/>\n<b>January 22, 29 and February 5:<\/b> Farm Animal Care FUNdamentals 4-H SPIN Club<br \/>\n<strong>January 23:<\/strong> 4-H Science Friday: Coastal Watersheds<br \/>\n<b>January 25: <\/b>Speak Up, Maine 4-H! Public Speaking Workshop, Hancock County<br \/>\n<strong>February 17-20: <\/strong>Winter Ecology Camp<b><br \/>\n<\/b><b>February 17-20: <\/b>Winter STEM Virtual Workshop Series<b><br \/>\nMarch 6: <\/b>Speak Up, Maine 4-H! Public Speaking Tournament Registration Deadline<br \/>\n<b>March 14: <\/b>Speak Up, Maine 4-H! Public Speaking Tournament in Calais<br \/>\n<b>March 15: <\/b>Speak Up, Maine 4-H! Public Speaking Tournament in Calais Snow Date<b><br \/>\nApril 10-15: <\/b>4-H Conference<span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0in Washington DC<br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>April 11<\/strong>: Speak Up, Maine 4-H! State Public Speaking Tournament in Orono<br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>April 12: <\/strong>Speak Up, Maine 4-H! State Public Speaking Tournament in Orono Snow Date<strong><br \/>\nNovember 27-December 1:<\/strong> <\/span>4-H Congress<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong><a id=\"science-friday\"><\/a>4-H Science Fridays<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>4-H Science Fridays are back for 2026!<\/p>\n<p>Engage in science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) topics and skills with 4-H staff and volunteers throughout the 2026 year! Targeted for youth ages 9-14, this program allows youth to explore a variety of STEAM projects through hands-on activities that build curiosity, confidence and a growth mindset.<\/p>\n<p>Each month 4-H Science Fridays will have a specific theme. We will meet for an hour and a half, 3-4:30pm, at the University of Maine at Machias. The program is free, registration is encouraged, as the maximum number of participants is 20.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Goals<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Become more familiar with the University of Maine at Machias campus<\/li>\n<li>Engage in high quality STEAM activities that relate to youth interests and sparks<\/li>\n<li>Promote interest and enjoyment in STEAM<\/li>\n<li>Foster a sense of belonging with peers and adults<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>January 23, 2026: Coastal Watersheds<br \/>\n<\/b><b>Explore coastal watersheds using a 3D enviroscape model! Youth will interact with the model to demonstrate coastal pollution sources and prevention, while gaining understanding about watersheds.<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Register for the January session and find out about more upcoming sessions on the <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/4-h-science-fridays-at-umaine-machias\/\">4-H Science Fridays website<\/a>!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-15165 \" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-771x1024.png\" alt=\"Youth explore tree moss.\" width=\"370\" height=\"492\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-771x1024.png 771w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-226x300.png 226w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-768x1020.png 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-105x140.png 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-317x421.png 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-423x562.png 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-634x842.png 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-846x1124.png 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-951x1263.png 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025.png 1008w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,370px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b><a id=\"speak-up\"><\/a>Speak Up, Maine 4-H! Public Speaking Workshop<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> \u2013 <\/span><b><i>DATE CHANGE!<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Hancock County will be hosting a public speaking workshop on Sunday, January 25th, from 2:00 \u2013 4:30 pm. Washington County 4-H\u2019ers are invited to attend! By attending this workshop, youth will begin to learn what it takes to give a good presentation and get the chance to practice the skills they learn in small groups! Small snacks and refreshments will be provided. Space is limited, so sign up today on the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/hancock\/4h\/public-speaking\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Hancock County Public Speaking website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> to reserve your place or contact the Extension Office at 207.667.8212.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b>Speak Up, Washington County 4-H!<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Do you have youth who LOVE to talk? Can\u2019t wait to share their spark? Or maybe just want to step out of their comfort zone? Join us for a wonderful showcase of everyone\u2019s sparks through our Speak Up Showcase!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This year, we\u2019ve made a few exciting changes to our program, and we can\u2019t wait to see what our 4-Her\u2019s make of them. First, our judging sheets have received a little update. These new sheets have ample space for judges\u2019 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.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">In addition to the new feedback forms, we also have a <\/span><b>new category<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">! 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 \u2013 it\u2019s time for our musicians, dancers, actors, singers, and more to shine!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">For more information about the county event and to register visit the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/washington4hpublicspeaking\/washingtoncounty4hpublicspeaktourn\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Speak Up, Washington County 4-H! Webpage<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. <\/span><b>The registration deadline is Friday, March 6th.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>Save the Date:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> All of our 4-H youth are invited to prepare for this year\u2019s Washington County 4-H Speak Up Showcase, which will be held on Saturday, March 14 at 1pm at the Washington County Community College. For those who qualify \u2013 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. Stay tuned for events and details on our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/public-speaking\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Speak Up 4-H website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> soon.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-15501 \" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"Speak Up, Maine 4-H is thrilled to welcome to the stage...Performing Arts. Visit the public speaking for updated guidelines and evaluation sheets for all categories. \" width=\"500\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-105x105.png 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-317x317.png 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-423x423.png 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-634x634.png 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-846x846.png 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-951x951.png 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image-32x32.png 32w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/PS-updates-available-image.png 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b><a id=\"ecology-camp\"><\/a>Winter Ecology Camp<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cobscook Institute, Maine Coast Heritage Trust, Downeast Coastal Conservancy and 4-H are partnering to give you the best winter ecology experience possible! This camp is for youth ages 11-14 and will take place over February break, <\/span><b>Feb. 17-20 from 12-4 p.m.<\/b> <b>at Cobscook Institute<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">. Youth will take to the outdoors to learn about animal tracking, animal adaptations, snow and ice science, and the subnivean zone. For more information and to register visit <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/cobscookinstitute.org\/events?e=2-16-2026-ecology-camp-february-break&amp;m=\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Cobscook Institute\u2019s Winter Ecology camp page<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b><a id=\"paper-clover\"><\/a>Tractor Supply Company Paper Clover Campaign<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">2025 celebrated 15 years of partnership between Tractor Supply Company (TSC) and National 4-H Council. Washington County\u2019s TSC is in Calais and each year they welcome 4-H with open arms, collaboratively striving to provide opportunities for local 4-H\u2019ers. Donations from the Paper Clover Campaign fund local scholarships for youth for camp, national trips, leadership opportunities and more. Thank you all for your support!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-15472 \" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-1024x764.png\" alt=\"Washington County 4-H Information Table\" width=\"499\" height=\"372\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-1024x764.png 1024w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-300x224.png 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-768x573.png 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-105x78.png 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-317x236.png 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-423x315.png 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-634x473.png 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-846x631.png 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026-951x709.png 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Tractor-Supply-January-2026.png 1152w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,499px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b><a id=\"lubec\"><\/a>Lubec Community Outreach Center Engagement Night<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Last month 4-H joined <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/lcocmaine.org\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Lubec Community Outreach Center<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u2019s (LCOC) Parent Engagement Night where families participated in activities, games, and workshops, while they could see what youth have been up to during their time in LCOC\u2019s afterschool program. Gabby, 4-H Professional, was there helping youth and families make solstice lanterns. Lanterns and candles are often used during the solstice and winter months to bring more light into our shortened days. Gabby will be there this month with model ice cores, to explore how we can learn about the history of an environment from layers of ice.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-15470 \" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-1024x758.png\" alt=\"Sign that reads UMaine Cooperative Extension 4-H with a clover and lit craft jar\" width=\"501\" height=\"371\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-1024x758.png 1024w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-300x222.png 300w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-768x569.png 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-105x78.png 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-317x235.png 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-423x313.png 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-634x469.png 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-846x626.png 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026-951x704.png 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-LCOC-January-2026.png 1152w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,501px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b><a id=\"club-updates\"><\/a>Club Updates<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b><a id=\"crafting-spin\"><\/a>Crafting SPIN Club<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">In November and December youth gathered at Calais Elementary School where they created crafts inspired from cultures around the world. Throughout the weeks youth used their <\/span><b>hands<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> to make art, their <\/span><b>health <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">to play collaborative games, their <\/span><b>heart<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> to learn about other cultures, and their <\/span><b>head<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> to problem solve their innovative ideas.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-15471 \" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026-771x1024.png\" alt=\"Youth working on a holiday craft.\" width=\"501\" height=\"665\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026-771x1024.png 771w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026-226x300.png 226w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026-768x1020.png 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026-105x140.png 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026-317x421.png 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026-423x562.png 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026-634x842.png 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026-846x1123.png 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Crafting-SPIN-January-2026.png 864w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,501px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><b><a id=\"conservation-career\"><\/a>Conservation Career Club<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">In December teens visited Downeast Salmon Federation in East Machias to learn not only about the current projects and operations, but also how each staff ended up in their position today. Teens learned how the organization juggles hatchery operations, habitat and land conservation, and outreach. The group even braved the cold temps to take water samples from the East Machias River.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong><a id=\"oh-yea\"><\/a>Oh YEA 4-H Grows True Leaders<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Oh YEA 4-H is heating up for the new year and trying to keep warm in this especially cold winter. We have not yet created our calendar of events for the upcoming semester, but we are meeting with our community partner, Mano en Mano, this month to get it ready.<\/p>\n<p>We closed out 2025 with a very cold foraging hike for wreath-making materials, accompanied by Jasmine Haines from Healthy Acadia and funded by the Onion Foundation. We held an amazing traditional Ukrainian egg decorating workshop with Tanya Zivkovic at Calais Elementary School. We also attended the tranquil studio of Schoodic Arts for All with Anna Woolf in Winter Harbor, ME for a ceramic-making seminar to make drinking vessels for bees, important pollinators in our ecosystem.<\/p>\n<p>This Saturday, Jan. 10 , the Princeton OH YEA 4-H will have their first installment of Teens-Teach-Tech with Ed Latham and Milbridge OH YEA 4-H will have their second installment the following week, Jan. 17 . The 4-H teens are building computers in the first class and installing the operating system in the second lesson.<\/p>\n<p>To close out the month, 4-H will be providing assistance at The Maine Agricultural Trade Show at the Augusta Civic Center Jan. 13 through the 15. Hold tight for our new calendar of events because it\u2019s going to be packed! If your youth is between 8 and 18 and is interested in learning more about Oh YEA 4-H, contact the UMM Cooperative Extension at (207) 255-3345 and ask for Jason Palomo.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-15493 \" src=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"People working on Ukrainian egg craft. \" width=\"500\" height=\"666\" srcset=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-105x140.jpeg 105w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-317x423.jpeg 317w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-423x564.jpeg 423w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-634x845.jpeg 634w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-846x1128.jpeg 846w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-951x1268.jpeg 951w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026-1268x1691.jpeg 1268w, https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2026\/01\/4-H-Oh-Yea-4-H-January-2026.jpeg 1800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 320px) 85vw, (max-width: 768px) 67vw, (max-width: 1024px) 62vw,500px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><strong><a id=\"state-news\"><\/a>News from the State<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Farm Animal Care &#8220;Fun&#8221;damentals 4-H Spin Club<br \/>\n<\/strong>Are you interested in learning about livestock\u00a0animals\u00a0(such as cows, goats, or sheep)? How do we care for them? How do you know what to feed them, how do you actually do regular health checks and have proper housing? Join the 4-H\u00a0Animal\u00a0Science\u00a0SPIN\u00a0club. We will have 3 virtual sessions focused on what livestock need to live a healthy life and one field day that provides hands-on experience. Set yourself up for success in your 4-H project by learning the basics of\u00a0animal\u00a0care. Participants do not need any prior\u00a0animal\u00a0experience or currently own livestock to participate. This is a beginner\/introductory level program.<\/p>\n<p>This is a free opportunity for youth ages 9 \u2013 18. Virtual sessions will be Thursdays, January 22, 29th, February 5, 2026, 4:00-5:15 pm.\u00a0 February 12th will be an optional session for youth who intend to participate in a 4-H livestock project. The final session will be geared towards youth who are beginning their journey into raising livestock. <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/virtual-learning-hub\/agriculture-animal-science\/\">Learn More and Register Here for Farm Animal Care Fundamentals 4-H Spin Club<\/a>\u00a0before January 9, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Winter STEM Virtual Workshop Series<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>When: <\/strong>February 17, 18, 19, 20 from 10am to 11:15am<\/p>\n<p><strong>Where:\u00a0<\/strong>This virtual series will meet on zoom<\/p>\n<p><strong>Cost:<\/strong>\u00a0Free<\/p>\n<p>This February, ignite a new appreciation for winter! Join our hands-on, curiosity-driven virtual science series designed for youth ages 10 and up. Through guided inquiry, investigation, and observation, we will explore all the wonders of the cold season. Get ready to transform your view of winter!\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/virtual-learning-hub\/steam-2\/\">Register for Winter STEM Virtual Series here<\/a>\u00a0by February 3, 2026 or contact\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:emily.booth@maine.edu\">emily.booth@maine.edu<\/a>\u00a0for more information.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>4-H Public Speaking Update<br \/>\n<\/strong>You asked, we&#8217;re excited! Performing Arts demonstrations will now be part of\u00a0<em>Speak Up, Maine 4-H\u00a0<\/em>the statewide\u00a0Public\u00a0Speaking\u00a0Program.<\/p>\n<p>From dramatic monologues to musical performances, this creative category is your time to express yourself and share your spark center stage.<\/p>\n<p>Performing Arts demonstrations include:<br \/>\n&#8211; a spoken introduction<br \/>\n&#8211; your performance<br \/>\n&#8211; and a spoken conclusion<\/p>\n<p><b>Save the Date! The State Showcase will take place on April 11th (Snow Date April 12th).<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Specific details, including updated evaluation tools and judges\u2019 support for all categories, will be available soon on the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/public-speaking\/\">S<em>peak Up, Maine 4-H <\/em>website<\/a>\u00a0and through county staff. Stay tuned!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>Maine 4-H ESE Beef Intent to Participate Forms are Now Available<br \/>\n<\/strong>The <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/animal-science-resources\/beef\/\">2026 Maine 4-H Beef ESE Intent to Participate form is\u00a0now available online<\/a> and must be submitted by\u00a0<strong>January 15, 2026<\/strong>. This is a requirement for all youth intending to participate as members of the Maine 4-H Beef Team at the Eastern States Exposition in September. Youth must be 12-18 years old as of December 31, 2025 and have completed one year in a beef project prior to this year. Please contact Kristen Grondin,\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:kristen.grondin@maine.edu\">kristen.grondin@maine.edu<\/a>, 207-581-8193, or Cathy Bartlett Gray,\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:cathy.gray@maine.edu\">cathy.gray@maine.edu<\/a>, 207-743-6329\u00a0 with any questions.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>2026 Maple Sugaring 101: From Sap, to Syrup, to Sales<br \/>\n<\/strong>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, one session per week, during the afternoon. Exact dates will be released in January 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Each week, participants will learn about the process and connect with other young maple sugar makers through online meetings led by University of Maine Cooperative Extension experts.\u00a0 This program will also prepare youth for a new Level 1 digital badge called 4-H Foundations of Maple Sugaring Enterprise. Youth who complete the program will get free access to the learning modules to earn the digital badge.<\/p>\n<p>Independent club members or youth who are interested in the program but are not a member of a participating club are welcome to register!<\/p>\n<p>If you are interested in this program, please complete the <a href=\"https:\/\/forms.gle\/JwNiYnPtU1ihXN2G9\">Maple Sugaring 101 interest form<\/a>\u00a0so we can follow up with you about registration:<\/p>\n<p>Club leaders who would like to have their club participate in this program, please contact your 4-H County Professional or Andrew Hudacs by Monday, January 26, 2026: <a href=\"mailto:andrew.hudacs@maine.edu\">andrew.hudacs@maine.edu<\/a>, (207) 581-8204. For more information, please visit the <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/annual-events\/maple-sugaring-101\/\">Maple Sugaring 101 webpage.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>4-H Foundations of Maple Sugaring Enterprise Micro-Credential<br \/>\n<\/strong>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.maine.edu\/student-success\/micro-credentials\/\">University of Maine System (UMS)<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/micro-credentials\/4h-foundations-maple-sugaring-enterprise\/\"><strong>4-H Foundations of Maple Sugaring Enterprise Micro-credential<\/strong><\/a> is a learning pathway for teenage youth to learn the essential aspects of the maple industry. Students completing the program demonstrate the foundational knowledge and skills to work in a maple forest, sugarhouse, and produce commercial-grade maple syrup and value-added food products. Additionally, participants understand how skills and traits gained during work in the maple industry are transferable to other workplace situations.<\/p>\n<p>Students ages 14+ may enroll in the micro-credential pathway and learn the material through an instructor-led class or by self-study.<\/p>\n<p>Link to <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/micro-credentials\/4h-foundations-maple-sugaring-enterprise\/\"><strong>4-H Foundations of Maple Sugaring Enterprise Micro-credential<\/strong> webpage<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Students progressing along the micro-credential pathway will earn and receive a digital badge at each milestone they achieve. There are three digital badge levels of knowledge and skills on the pathway that must be completed before proceeding to the next level. All three levels cover learning topics for working in the woods, the sugarhouse, the kitchen, and operating a business.\u00a0 The three units for each digital badge and learning level are called \u201cWoods Work\u201d, \u201cThe Sugarhouse\u201d, and \u201cKitchen and Business\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/annual-events\/maple-sugaring-101\/\">4-H Maple Sugaring 101<\/a> virtual program will prepare students for the Level 1 digital badge.<\/p>\n<p>The Level 1 knowledge exam is the first of three parts required to earn the full micro-credential. There is no cost to enroll and take the Level 1 assessment. After passing this test, students can then demonstrate their skills with an approved instructor to complete Levels 2 and 3.<\/p>\n<p>To learn more or to sign up for the pathway, please email hudacs@maine.edu or by phone, 207.581.8204.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>ESE 4-H Dairy Team Intent Forms are Due March 1, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/dairy\/\">2026 Maine 4-H Dairy Eastern States intent to participate form<\/a> is available online. In order to be eligible for participation on the Maine 4-H\u00a0Dairy\u00a0Eastern 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.<\/p>\n<p>Please contact Sadee Mehuren at\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:sadee.mehuren@maine.edu\">sadee.mehuren@maine.edu<\/a>\u00a0or 207.342.5971 with any questions.<br \/>\n<strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><strong><a id=\"volunteer-corner\"><\/a>4-H Volunteer Corner: Your corner for connection, tips, and tricks!<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><strong>Fuel the Spark!<em><br \/>\n<\/em><\/strong>Okay, Maine 4-H volunteers- we have shared information about \u201cyouth sparks\u201d in our past three editions of the 4-H Volunteer Corner. Now it\u2019s YOUR TURN- tell us how YOU are helping to support or fuel a youth spark! Fill out <a href=\"https:\/\/forms.gle\/NwK6oqSqzu6Ryfeh8\">this Fuel the Spark short form<\/a> to highlight one example of youth spark and the role you played, and your name will be entered into a drawing for some cool 4-H swag! YOU MAKE a difference! Tell us how you do it!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>4-H Volunteer Huddle:<br \/>\n<\/strong>Join us for a short \u201cgather and learn session\u201d 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\u2019s something for everyone. We\u2019d love to see you there! No registration required! An email will be sent to you with the Zoom link.<\/p>\n<p><strong>February 6, 2026-<\/strong> <strong><em>Igniting Youth Sparks: Hands-On Strategies for 4-H Volunteers <\/em><\/strong>Discover how to identify and nurture the unique passions, interests, and\u00a0talents\u2014\u201csparks\u201d\u2014that inspire young people to thrive. Get hands-on activities and\u00a0strategies for igniting and sustaining youth sparks in their 4-H clubs.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>4-H Volunteer Connections<br \/>\n<\/strong>January 21, 2026 <strong><em>Volunteer Excellence: Recognizing Achievement, Inspiring Growth<\/em><\/strong><br \/>\n6:30-8:00pm. Free to attend, but registration is required! <a href=\"https:\/\/maine.zoom.us\/meeting\/register\/7M0UxFX0Rbiaoc1n0JhlmQ?_x_zm_rtaid=PMM-xDwbQDusb6Q8nM2rPg.1758202384209.77645bb478e747f37764ba7d64017055&amp;_x_zm_rhtaid=362#\/registration\">Register here for 4-H Volunteer Connections!<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><br \/>\nYour Voice is Needed! Passionate about 4-H Poultry &amp; Rabbit Projects?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Help shape the new 4-H poultry and rabbit tracks that will debut at Eastern States in 2026! We are forming planning committees for each species and are looking for knowledgeable, enthusiastic 4-H volunteers and interested youth to join us in developing high-quality, engaging opportunities for 4-H members across the region. Join one of our upcoming drop-in virtual information sessions to learn more. We\u2019d love to have your experience, creativity, and passion at the table! Contact Sadee Mehuren, sadee.mehuren@maine.edu\u00a0 207.342.5971<\/p>\n<p><strong>Info Session Dates:<\/strong> Jan 6, 2026 06:00 PM,\u00a0 Jan 22, 2026 06:00 PM<\/p>\n<p><strong>Resource Spotlight<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong><em>4-H Club Leader Handbook <\/em><\/strong>is a resource designed to help new club leaders get off to a strong start, containing specific information for facilitating the 4-H club model. Check out this <a href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/volunteers\/club-leader-handbook\/\">amazing 4-H Club Leader Handbook resource online<\/a> or contact your county office for a printed copy.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Dates to Remember January 10: Oh YEA 4-H Teens-Teach-Tech- Princeton January 15: 2026 Maine 4-H Beef ESE Intent to Participate January 17: Oh YEA 4-H Teens-Teach-Tech- Milbridge January 21: 4-H Volunteer Connections January 22, 29 and February 5: Farm Animal Care FUNdamentals 4-H SPIN Club January 23: 4-H Science Friday: Coastal Watersheds January 25: Speak [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":53,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[31,2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-15462","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-4-h-news","category-news"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>4-H News in Washington County - January 2026 - Cooperative Extension in Washington County - University of Maine Cooperative Extension<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/2026\/01\/07\/4-h-news-washington-january-2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"4-H News in Washington County - January 2026 - Cooperative Extension in Washington County - University of Maine Cooperative Extension\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Dates to Remember January 10: Oh YEA 4-H Teens-Teach-Tech- Princeton January 15: 2026 Maine 4-H Beef ESE Intent to Participate January 17: Oh YEA 4-H Teens-Teach-Tech- Milbridge January 21: 4-H Volunteer Connections January 22, 29 and February 5: Farm Animal Care FUNdamentals 4-H SPIN Club January 23: 4-H Science Friday: Coastal Watersheds January 25: Speak [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/2026\/01\/07\/4-h-news-washington-january-2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Cooperative Extension in Washington County\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-01-07T21:03:53+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-13T13:54:11+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/30\/2025\/07\/4-H-Science-Fridays-August-2025-771x1024.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"771\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1024\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"twood\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"twood\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"14 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/2026\/01\/07\/4-h-news-washington-january-2026\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/2026\/01\/07\/4-h-news-washington-january-2026\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"twood\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/washington\/#\/schema\/person\/9f0056a6c4a281b4f517e1313fa2c518\"},\"headline\":\"4-H News in Washington County &#8211; 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