Wirt County 4-H News

There are four opportunities to attend a state camp in just a few months!  Each of these weekend camps provide a great opportunity for youth who have never been to a state camp to experience what it's like to spend time at Jackson's Mill. These camps also have lower registration fees than week-long summer camps.  

The four weekend camps also are specialized to appeal to the different interests of 4-H campers.  Whether your interseted in computer science, dancing, leadership, or shooting sports, there is a camp for you! 

Have you ever wanted to travel to Washington, D.C.?  Do you have an interest in agri-science?  We have the opportunity for you!  January 9th - 12th, three 4-H'ers will travel to the National 4-H Conference Center located right outside of Washington, D.C. to participate in the National Youth Agri-Science Summit.

At the National Youth Summit on Agri-Science , high school students develop the skills and knowledge needed for the challenges facing agriculture, food security, and sustainability. National 4‑H Council and National 4‑H Conference Center have partnered with agricultural scientists, researchers, leaders, politicians, and advocates to host the National Youth Summit on Agri-Science. This Summit emphasizes hands-on educational experiences led by experts in the agricultural community.

On October 27, 2019, 4-H members, volunteers, and clubs were recognized for their achievements at an Open Council Circle held by the Wirt County 4-H Leaders' Association. 

Kerry Cottrell serves as an outstanding leader for both the kids in here ever-growing community club and the youth of Wirt County. Kerry works to grow her club membership year after year by encouraging her members to participate in contests and events, organize community service projects, develop friendships, and further grow the club. Kerry is known for her constant upbeat attitude and willingness to serve others. Under her leadership, the Morristown Mountaineers 4-H Club has become the largest club in Wirt County. Kerry also lends a helping hand with fundraising for the leaders’ association and organizing county events. 4-H Youths and Volunteers in Wirt County are fortunate to have such a dedicate leader.

Whether you're a returning family or new to 4-H, we are excited you are joining us for the 2019-20 4-H Year. Below are some important things to know. A 4-H Family Guidebook is also available from your club leaders or the County Extension Office that provide in-depth information on exhibiting at the Wirt County Fair, project books, and event information. If you have questions at any time, please reach out to your club leaders or the County Extension Office. You can reach the WVU-Wirt County Extension Office at 304-275-3101.

Wirt County 4-H Volunteers are essential to making each 4-H member have a positive and safe educational experience.  While we often recognize the accomplishments of our youth, we don’t always take the time to recognize the work and dedication of our volunteers. The West Virginia 4-H All Stars organization recognizes the hard work of volunteers by awarding the highest honor in 4-H, the All Star pin.

On September 21, 2019, three deserving volunteers were recognized with this honor at the West Virginia 4-H Volunteer Leader’s Weekend.  The event took place at Jackson’s Mill, the state 4-H camp ground. Inductees were (pictured left to right) Kerry Cottrell, Mike Bumgarner, and Angie Smith.

Wirt County 4-H will host an open council circle for all parents, volunteers, members, supporters, and stakeholders involved in our county 4-H program. The event will begin with a refreshments being served by the Wirt County 4-H Leaders' Association from 2:00 - 2:30 p.m.  This will provide an opportunity for members and their families to catch up and reflect on the year.

Youth are invited to attend an informational livestock clinic after school on April 11, 2019. The clinic will provide youth with information on properly selecting, caring for, and showing livestock animals as well as an overview of rules and requirements for the Wirt County Fair.

When: July 15-17, 2019 from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Where: Camp Barbe 4-H Grounds, 1551 Camp Barbe Road, Elizabeth, WV 26143
Who: Youth who will turn 6 by September 30, 2019 up to age 9. They DO NOT need to be enrolled in 4-H.
Cost: $40 per child - fees include breakfast, lunch, snack and a t-shirt. Additional children from the same family may register for $30.  Invoices will be sent to families following the initial registration. 

Campers will engage in fun activities focused on healthy living, civic engagement and STEM. The youth will also have the opportunity to participate in daily water activities and outdoor games (weather permitting). They will also have their first experience with mini 4-H tribes and a council circle before parent pick up each day. Youth will be supervised by vetted 4-H volunteers and the Wirt County Extension Agent. Teen counselors will assist in teaching classes and leading activities.

The information below is intended to guide and direct you through the completion of your 4-H project books for this year. If you have any questions, please reach out to your club leader or the Wirt County Extension Office at 304-275-3101.