(Le Mars) — This is National 4-H Week, and 4-H members across the state are promoting the youth organization. Ann Schoenrock is the 4-H and Youth Extension and Outreach Coordinator for Plymouth County Extension and Outreach. She says what used to be thought as a rural-based organization has expanded to appeal to urban and suburban youth, and it has been broaden to include even young elementary students.
Schoenrock says when students reach the 4th grade is when they join the traditional 4-H organization.
The Plymouth County Extension 4-H official says this past year, exhibitors could participate in the “Mystery Horticulture” project.
Schoenrock says the 4-H program offers members many opportunities beyond just exhibiting at the local county fair.
Plymouth County is fortunate to rank among the top Iowa counties for 4-H membership.
Schoenrock says 4-H members that reside in town are offered some opportunities to experience farm life, and even exhibit livestock entries at the Plymouth County Fair.
Schoenrock says 4-H members will be competing in a contest that involves decorating downtown business windows as a way to help promote 4-H during National 4-H week. She says the 4-H youth council will be distributing information to 4th and 5th graders at all the schools during 4-H week as a way to also promote the organization, and encourage students to become members.
