4-H Project Groups & Judging Teams
4-H project areas provide youth the opportunity to explore interests while engaging in hands-on learning as well as developing leadership and service skills. Judging teams develop decision-making and communication skills, while introducing youth to industry standards, terminology and opportunities.
Check out the opportunities available in Johnson County below. A full list of project groups for Tennessee 4-H can be found at www.4h.tennessee.edu
Consumer Decision Making teaches youth how to observe, compare and make decisions based on given criteria. 4-Hers involved learn to rank articles and products based on standards and quality and then present oral reasons to support their choices.
4-H Youth will have the opportunity to learn valuable skills including tree identification, compass and pacing as well as measuring trees and evaluating forests.
Youth participating in the horse judging program learn how to evaluate various classes of horses based on conformation, breed characteristics and movement. Youth do NOT have to own a horse to participate in horse judging.
Participants will learn to evaluate soils for composition and drainage as well as judge slope and evaluate sites for given criteria.
The 4-H Livestock project group and judging teams will explore, beef, sheep, goats and swine. Youth will learn practical skills and knowledge on the animal agriculture industry. Youth can also competitive in 4-H livestock activities and events such as livestock judging as well.
Through the 4-H Meats Judging Contest, youth learn how to identify and evaluate various cuts of meat.
Through the wildlife judging competition, youth will learn to identify various wildlife species, evaluate habitat and identify factors affect wildlife species.
Learn to sew with our beginner sewing class. Participants will learn basic sewing skills as well as create fun projects to take home. Contact the Johnson County Extension Office for dates and times of the next class.
Have fun and be creative while learning about saving. The Piggy Bank Pageant is open to all youth age pre-K through 12th grades. Contact Danielle at dsilver2@utk.edu or Sarah at Sransom@utk.edu to enter your piggy bank in the county countest.
Consumer Decision Making teaches youth how to observe, compare and make decisions based on given criteria. 4-Hers involved learn to rank articles and products based on standards and quality and then present oral reasons to support their choices.
Craft classes help our youth develop creativity and decision making skills. Students learn by doing as they create unique items.
The dairy steer project helps youth gain knowledge and experience. Youth enrolled in the project purchase a dairy steer to feed, train, fit and show. Throughout the project youth can attend classes and clinics to learn and help them be successful in the showring. (Deadline apply, so please contact the Johnson County Extension Office for details)
June Dairy activities include a poster contest as well as local hands-on activities. This program also has leadership opportunities for senior high youth (9th-12th grades)
Join the Science Squad and have fun experimenting with everyday objects. Participants engage in hands-on learning and STEM activities while building valuable life skills. Contact the Extension Office for dates and times of our next Science Squad class.
Youth participants learn basic culinary skills and kitchen safety while making a variety of simple recipes. Contact the Extension Office for dates and times of the next class.
The 4-H Chili Cook-Off is a youth chili competition. Participants showcase their culinary skills and engage with our community. This event is also a county fundraiser.
Johnson County 4-H is collaborating with after-school programs at local elementary schools to bring cooking to youth. Each month youth will learn a new recipe while learning all about nutrition, where their food comes from and how to prepare healthy snacks at home.
Participants will increase their horse knowledge and can compete individually in the Hippology contest and as a team for the Horse Bowl competition. Both contests test the youths’ equine knowledge.
Youth participating in the horse judging program learn how to evaluate various classes of horses based on conformation, breed characteristics and movement. Youth do NOT have to own a horse to participate in horse judging.
Participants will learn and explore horse breeds, tack and equipment, equine nutrition, equine health, disciplines and care.
4-H youth may exhibit their horse in a variety of classes and gain show experience.
Throughout the summer, youth can participate in a variety of gardening activities. This program is held in collaboration with the Johnson County Farmers’ Market.
Youth can learn about goal setting, leadership styles and serve as a teen leader for various programs and events.
Youth can increase and showcase their photography skills through classes, contests and exhibits. Contact us for more information about upcoming opportunities.
The 4-H Chick Chain project gives youth the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning while caring for and raising pullets. Contact us for registration details and information.
- Tennessee 4-H Poultry: Project Area Guide
- Growing Blue Ribbon Pullets
- Colorado State University Extension: Backyard and Small Flock Poultry in Boulder County
- Mississippi State University Extension – Poultry Beginnings: Raise Your Own Backyard Chickens
Avian Influenza Resources
The Tennessee 4-H Shooting Sports program and the Johnson County 4-H shooting sports archery program helps youth develop valuable life skills including, responsibility, teamwork, sportsmanship, increase communication skills and achieve goals through shooting sports. Youth also have opportunities to compete in state archery competition(s). Contact us for registration information and practice details.
UT-TSU Extension Johnson County
212 College Street, Mountain City, TN 37683
423-727-8161
Johnson County’s 4-H is available to all 4th-12th graders. Some projects and opportunities are available to youth younger than 4th grade.
Contact the Johnson County Extension Office for current enrollment forms and information.
Visit www.4h.tennessee.edu for a full list of project areas and resources.