Submitted by San Juan County 4-H.

Fair week is swiftly approaching, and kids and teens around the county are hard at work finishing up their 4-H projects. Due to the ongoing pandemic, this year they will participate in a hybrid fair, submitting most entries for judging in a Virtual Showcase and gathering in-person at the Fairgrounds for livestock judging and auction.

With all but livestock projects headed for the Virtual Showcase, 4-H youth will be submitting many projects online this year; with photos, videos, and written explanations of their projects. The range of projects is wide, from a LEGO build, or hand-knit hat, to a hog or one dozen quail eggs. Whatever the item, they are always demonstrating the life skills that they learn in 4-H. Judges will evaluate the photos and videos during fair week, then provide constructive feedback and placings. 4-H` families have the option to participate in live showing events during the week, culminating with the Livestock Auction that will take place on Saturday, Aug. 21.

Looking for ways to support 4-H Youth from afar? Be sure to join us for our online “Still Life” Auction or the in-person Livestock Auction! The online Still Life Auction will be hosted on the FairEntry platform, starting Thursday, Aug. 19 at 9 a.m. and closing at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 21. To participate, buyers will review photos, other bids, and a statement explaining why the product is the one you want to choose! Last year’s entries included apple pie, fruit preserves, felted gnomes, potted plants, and photography. There is something for everyone!

For those who would not like to purchase an item, there is also the option to “add on” to an individual or multiple 4-H members and make a contribution to their 4-H project funds.

Join us for a live market animal auction at the San Juan County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021! Registration begins at noon, and the auction starts at 1:00 pm. Our 4-H members will be selling lamb, hogs, alternative beef, meat goat, poultry broilers, pullet production trios, and dozens of eggs. For those who are unable to attend, proxy bidding is also available for the livestock auction. Please contact Wendy at the Extension Office for details. Interested bidders can learn more about both auctions at https://extension.wsu.edu/sanjuan/4-h-auction-for-buyers/.

Thank you for supporting San Juan County youth at the 4-H Hybrid Fair!