Kalamazoo County 4-H Youth Program

06/18/2026

Calling all young entrepreneurs!
Submit your business pitch to the Michigan State Fair 4-H & Youth Virtual Showcase. Youth ages 8–19 can enter with a product, service, or community impact idea—whether it’s already launched or still in development. Entries accepted through August 7, 2026.
✅ 3 age divisions: 8–11, 12–15, 16–19 as of Jan 1, 2026 (4-H membership not required)
✅ Up to 2-minute video pitch (uploaded to YouTube as unlisted)
✅ Must include the youth presenting on camera
Judging will focus on creativity, clear communication, audience understanding, and strong business ideas.
🏆 Top entries earn gift card prizes in each division, thanks to our sponsor, MSUFCU!
View the Fair Book (Dept 73) and registration link at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/virtual-showcase/State-Fair-Virtual-Showcase/

06/17/2026

Youth and adults are welcome to attend.

Join us for an informative Pasture Management Webinar featuring Tom Guthrie and Kable Thurlow on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 4:00 PM. Learn practical strategies for maintaining healthy, productive pastures, including identifying common weeds and toxic plants, understanding pasture maturity and its impact on livestock nutrition, and implementing best management practices during dry and drought conditions. Whether you work with horses, cattle, sheep, or goats, this session will provide valuable insights to help you improve pasture health and livestock well-being.

Register at: https://msu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TzveGdspR9OBhZ6xuWvLGQ

06/15/2026

Looking for ways to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs? Explore these FREE Michigan 4-H Entrepreneurship bookmarks packed with practical tips and inspiration for youth:

💡 50+ Business Ideas for Youth
🚀 Traits of an Entrepreneur
🌱 What Is an Entrepreneur?

Whether you're a parent, educator, youth leader, or young person with a great idea, these quick-reference resources can help spark creativity, build confidence, and encourage entrepreneurial thinking.

📖 Download your free bookmarks and start exploring what's possible today here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/youth_entrepreneurship_bookmarks!

06/09/2026

Registration is now open for the Kalamazoo County 4-H Youth Horse Show.

You can find the show bill athttps://www.canr.msu.edu/kalamazoo/uploads/Yourh%20Fair%202026%20Showbill.pdf

Registration is required by June 20, 2026 -https://www.canr.msu.edu/kalamazoo/uploads/Youth%20Fair%202026%20Registraction.pdf

06/09/2026

06/08/2026

THERE IS STILL TIME TO SIGN UP:

Looking for a fun, FREE activity for your kids? Join us for Hooked on Clean Water, a hands-on fishing experience where youth can learn the basics of baiting, casting, and reeling in a supportive, outdoor setting!
📅 Saturday, June 13th
⏰ 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
📍 Markin Glen Park (J. Tyler Family Pavilion), Kalamazoo, MI
Spots are limited to 35 youth, so registration is required! Scan the QR code on the flyer or click on the link below to sign up and save your spot. If you are new to 4-H you'll create a family and youth profile and then join the SPIN Club -Hooked on Water. Current members will just need to add this club to their profile.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/michigan_4_h_enrollment
Whether your child is brand new to fishing or just want to spend time outdoors, this is a great chance to learn something new and connect with nature.
Don’t miss out! Help your kids get “hooked” on a fun and healthy hobby!

06/08/2026

06/05/2026

🚗 Hit the road with 4-H pride this summer! 🌞
Getting ready to head out for your summer adventures? Take 4-H with you everywhere you go by sporting the Michigan 4-H specialty license plate!
Not only does it show your love for 4-H, but every plate purchased benefits Michigan 4-H programs that empower youth across Michigan. That’s a road trip win! So pack your bags, fuel up, and drive your support forward—order your plate today!
🔗 Learn more at extension.msu.edu/4-HPlate

06/04/2026

Do you have an interest in dairy cattle and animal science? Be sure to check out the information about the 2026 Michigan 4-H Youth Dairy Days 4-H dairy youth show, 4-H dairy quiz bowl contest, 4-H dairy management contest, and the 4-H dairy showmanship contest! Registration for each educational contest is free! If you are interested in competing in the dairy quiz bowl, dairy management, and/or dairy judging contest and you do not have a complete team, you will be placed on a team after registration closes for each event. The complete schedule, contest, and dairy cattle show information for the 2026 Michigan 4-H Youth Dairy Days is now available! The Michigan 4-H Dairy Youth Program has partnered with the Michigan Junior Holstein Association to host a kickball tournament on the evening of Monday, July 13th where pizza and ice cream will also be served! Please reach out to Kendra at [email protected] with any questions.

Michigan 4-H Youth Dairy Days Registration and Event Information Link: 4-H Dairy Cattle Production & Management"

Participants do not have to show dairy cattle to participate in 4-H Youth Dairy Days!