Blaine County 4-Her's Learn More Than Showing Animals at 4-H Showmanship Clinics

Published: 2020
By Julianne Snedigar

Despite restrictions on activities this year, Blaine County 4-H members participated in many hands-on workshops this summer. Every week, 4-H volunteer leaders organized horse, dog, beef and sheep showmanship workshops. Over 50 4-H members with skill levels from beginner to advanced participated. They received individual instruction and could immediately practice what they learned about feeding, show prep, clipping, obedience and pattern skills (dog project), and showmanship skills. 4-H members learn responsibility, the importance of practice, and setting high goals in their 4-H projects. After attending school at home since March, many 4-H members were happy to be outside, working with their animals, and being able to see friends. The 4-H members who participated in the workshops reported feeling more prepared for fair, and mentioned not feeling as nervous as they had in previous years. New project members appreciated learning what would be required at the fair. The additional preparation helped youth improve in their showmanship classes at the fair. All the workshop participants, as well as 4-H members who were unable to participate this year, requested the showmanship workshops be scheduled again for summer 2021.