County Director Sadie Lindgren says 4-H numbers are trending upward this year

The Montgomery County ISU Extension Office is heading into one of its busiest seasons yet, with strong 4-H participation, a full slate of summer camps, and several upcoming community events.

County Director Sadie Lindgren says 4-H numbers are trending upward this year, with livestock participation also seeing an increase compared to previous years. Final entries for animals are due May 15, but early indicators point to a strong showing at the county fair.

Several key fair-related dates are approaching, including:

Production hog weigh-in on April 11
Sheep and goat weigh-in on May 2
Additional activities like rabbit tattooing still to come

Beyond fair preparation, the Extension Office has launched registration for a wide variety of summer day camps, open to all youth—not just 4-H members.

Programs include:

Babysitting Basics (June 2) for grades 5–9
Fizz, Bubble, and Goo science camp (June 4) for K–3
Jam-making workshop (June 9) for ages 10+
Science of Barbecue (June 11) for grades 6–8
Ag-focused day camp (June 18) for K–3
Astro Camp: Mission Moon Landing (June 23–24) for multiple age groups

Most camps have limited enrollment and require early registration through the Extension website or Facebook page.

In addition to youth programming, the Extension Office is supporting community engagement events. A new fundraiser, “Puzzlepalooza,” will be held May 2 at the Gold Fair Building in Red Oak. The event features four-person teams competing to complete a puzzle while finishing pizza and beverages, with proceeds supporting local 4-H programs.

Another upcoming opportunity is the Women, Land, and Legacy event on May 5 at the Garden of Paradise near Essex. Attendees will learn about the operation and tour the farm, with a meal included.

Lindgren also highlighted the addition of two summer interns, Chloe Bruce and Ella Johnson, who will assist with programming beginning May 18.

Community members are encouraged to stop by the Extension Office at 1901 North Broadway Street in Red Oak or call 712-623-2592 for more information on programs and events.