Staff Conference & Parking Lot Construction

Please note that Cora will be out of the office September 21–25 and attending an Extension staff conference. During this time, her response times will be delayed. Jennifer will remain available in the office should you need assistance.

Construction is currently underway in the parking lot at the Isanti Government Center. If you plan to visit the Extension Office in the coming weeks, please be aware that signage will be posted to direct you to the appropriate parking areas. The project is expected to be completed on Wednesday, October 9th.

Continuing Education Scholarship Applications Due 10/15

Four, $500 scholarships are awarded by the Isanti County 4-H Leaders Council each year. Click here more information, criteria, and the application (due 10/15).

There is a limited pool of youth who qualify for these scholarships, so if you apply, you have an excellent chance of being selected.

The council will review applications at the 10/26/26 meeting. Youth selected will receive an email and be recognized on social media and bi-weekly newsletter. Awards are based on 4-H accomplishments, scholastic achievement, and financial need. You are eligible to win one of these scholarships throughout your 4-H career.

Previous Scholarship Recipients (2023-2025): Anna W, Ella W, Allison F, Ella L, Mikayla S, Bryce W, Alison M, Christina M, Hailey W, & Charlie Z.

Congratulations to our Miniature Horse State Exhibitors

The State Miniature Horse Show in Maple Plain was held on Tuesday, and we are incredibly proud of the 11 exhibitors representing Isanti County. From liberty to showmanship to ground driving and many additional classes, our youth demonstrated outstanding dedication, skill, and teamwork. Their enthusiasm came through in every class and in the connection they showed with their horses.

A special thank‑you goes to Stacey, our miniature horse project leader, for her guidance, encouragement, and countless hours supporting these exhibitors. We also extend our appreciation to all the volunteers, parents, and supporters who helped make this experience possible. Their commitment and enthusiasm strengthened our program and helped our youth shine at State.

Results (spreadsheet | fairentry)

Congratulations State Shoot Exhibitors

The State Shooting Sports and Wildlife Invitational in Alexandria wrapped up this past weekend, showcasing 36 outstanding exhibitors from Isanti County. Our youth competed in archery, BB gun, air rifle, .22 rifle, trap, and wildlife/skills events, demonstrating focus, sportsmanship, and incredible effort.

A huge thank‑you to project leader Dan, our committed coaches, and the parents and supporters who make opportunities like this possible. Your guidance and encouragement truly shape these experiences.

Results (county spreadsheet | state preliminary results spreadsheet)

Congratulations Sam M.!

Sam M. from Isanti County 4-H has been selected as a 2026–2027 Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassador!

The Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassador Program is a leadership opportunity for youth in grades 10 through one year post-high school (grade 13) who are passionate about agriculture and educating others. Youth in grades 10+ can:

Be a voice for Minnesota agriculture and help others understand where their food and fiber come from.
Build real-world leadership, communication and advocacy skills they can use in school, careers and beyond.
Connect with agriculture professionals, industry leaders and other youth from across Minnesota.
Represent 4-H at fairs, conferences and special events while gaining experiences they’ll remember for years to come.
Discover agriculture careers and opportunities while growing their confidence as a leader.

Ambassador Recruitment Night 10/2

Join us on Friday, October 2nd from 5:30–7:00 PM at the Isanti County Fairgrounds (4‑H Café) for a free meal and an introduction to our Ambassador Program. Meet current ambassadors, learn what the program is all about, and discover how you can get involved.

The deadline to apply for the Isanti County 4‑H Ambassador Program is October 23rd. If you’re entering 7th grade through one year post–high school, consider taking your 4‑H experience to the next level by becoming a County Ambassador.

Ambassadors make a meaningful impact by addressing community needs, promoting 4‑H, supporting educational outreach, and building leadership skills through county events such as B‑BOP, Project Workshop Day, and the County Fair. As an ambassador, you’ll collaborate with motivated youth, help design and lead community projects, serve as a positive role model, and grow your confidence as a leader.

If you’re ready to make a difference and help strengthen 4‑H, don’t miss this opportunity. Apply by October 23rd!

Join Cloverbud Club (Cloverbud Explorers)

What youth can expect to do at Cloverbud Club:

Youth in grades K-2 are invited to join us from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Cambridge Public Library (or other location as noted) for an opportunity to see what 4-H is all about!
Youth will have a chance to have fun while completing a hands-on project!
There is no fee to participate.
Materials and a snack is provided.

Why should you attend Cloverbud Club?

Explore your sparks!

Try new things- like art, STEAM, performing arts and more!

Make connections with others from across the Northeast region of Minnesota!

Have questions or want to learn more?

Contact Cora at rostx034@umn.edu to add Cloverbud Explorers as a club. If you are already in another club we can add Cloverbud Explorers as a secondary club.
Visit the NE 4-H Cloverbud Club website at: z.umn.edu/ne-4h-cloverbud-club

National 4-H Week is Coming Soon!

National 4-H Week is an annual celebration that highlights the positive impact and achievements of the 4-H youth development program. This year 4-H week is October 4th-10th.

Daily Themes:

Monday, October 5: Go Green
Tuesday, October 6 : Throwback Tuesday
Wednesday, October 7: Building a Future (4-H Building Day)
Thursday, October 9: Thankful Thursday
Friday, October 8: Did you know?

Ask your club about creating a 4-H window display, parade float, or creating a yard sign display. PS we still have free 4-H yard signs at our office.

2026-27 Enrollment is Now Open

Re-Enrollment (Rollover) Process

Each year, Sept. 15 marks Minnesota 4-H rollover in 4-H Online and the beginning of the renewal period (in preparation for the new Program Year on Oct. 1). On Sept. 15, 2026, all members and volunteers who were approved in Program Year 2025-26 were be moved to a "Not Enrolled" status in 4-H Online.

To Do:

Re-enroll on 4-H Online starting September 15th.
Log into 4-H Online and on the member list page there will be a blue link that says "Enroll Now" next to each youth member and adult volunteer. Check out the enrollment guide for more information.
Update information such as emergency contact info, mailing address, projects your children are interested in, health questions, etc.
Submit the enrollment for each youth member for the 2026-2027 4-H year (October 2026 - September 2027. See our Important Dates to Know document for key dates and deadlines during the year.

Tips/ Reminders:

Selecting a project in 4-H Online simply lets us know what topics you’re interested in, so we can add you to project email lists and send you events and opportunities in that area throughout the year. It is not a commitment or a formal registration to bring that project to the county fair.
If you don't know what club to join select "undecided" and we will send you more information. Or check out our club list here.
Your "family email" is the email you use to log into 4-H Online and it is displayed at the top of the member list under your family's last name. It is crucial that this email address is checked regularly and is the main email we use for the newsletter and other important messages. You may also add a "member email" under each member's profile to receive messages related to the projects they selected. If you no longer have access to your family email or would like to change the email address, please let us know.

If you do not enroll by the end of October and until you re-enroll, you will not:

Receive direct communications from us about new opportunities.
Be allowed to serve as an officer in a 4-H club, federation/council or other organized group.
Be allowed in any 4-H event.

Volunteer Re-Enrollment

Watch for an email from Elaine with steps to complete your volunteer renewal. Videos are available that show click by click steps to complete renewal. Check them out on the volunteer renewal webpage or use these direct links.

Support Isanti 4-Hers at Upcoming State & Regional Events

Exhibitors participating in these events should keep an eye on their email inboxes for additional details from Cora and state staff.

September 17th-21st: State Horse Show at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St Paul, MN. Schedule & Website. 21 Isanti County Participants.
September 26th-27th: NE Livestock Show at the Morrison County Fairgrounds, 15575 Hawthorn Rd, Little Falls, MN 56345. Schedule & Website. 34 Isanti County Participants.
September 26th-27th: State Dog Show at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds (4-H building and surrounding areas), St Paul, MN. Schedule unavailable at this time & Website. 15 Isanti County Participants.

Congratulations to our State Livestock and General Project Exhbitiors

The 4‑H State Livestock and General Encampments wrapped up this week, and we are so proud of all our exhibitors and the hard work they put into their projects and into representing our county at State. From the barns to the 4‑H Building, our youth showed incredible dedication, creativity, and leadership.

We loved seeing their "sparks" shine whether in the show ring, during judging, or on stage sharing their projects. It’s inspiring to watch them grow, learn, and celebrate everything they’ve accomplished.

Thank you to our chaperone Katie, livestock project leader volunteers, parents, and supporters who helped make this experience possible.

Isanti County State Event Results can be found here (Spreadsheet | Live Results Page)

Photos can be found here (Smugmug). We love to share photos of 4-Hers with their exhibit on our social media pages and in our newsletter. If you have any favorite photos whether it’s during judging, in the 4‑H building, or proudly standing with your exhibit, please send them our way!

Register for Robotics by 10/31

The Isanti County 4-H Robotics Program sparks curiosity and fosters early interest in robotics engineering and technology among youth. Through hands-on learning, participants will explore the design, construction, and programming of robots using a variety of platforms and software tools. In addition to building technical skills, the team will have opportunities to take part in optional tours of industry-leading organizations and businesses, offering real-world insights into the field of robotics.

The project meets 1-2 Monday evenings per month 6pm-7pm approximately October 2026 - May 2027 at the Cambridge Public Library and other locations.

Enrollment in 4-H is required in order to register for the program (z.umn.edu/Join4H).

Contact Cliff Woodruff, Isanti 4-H Robotics Project Leader Volunteer, at 763-328-4545 or woodruff.cliff@gmail.com for more information.

Tree Seed and Cone Collection Field Day at Becklin Homestead Park

Isanti Soil and Water Conservation District invites people of all ages to a free, hands-on Tree Seed and Cone Collection Field Day at Becklin Homestead Park!

This educational community event is open to all ages and experience levels. No previous tree identification or seed collection experience is needed.

Participants will connect with University of Minnesota Extension staff and local and state conservation professionals while learning how to:

Identify trees and high-quality seed sources
Properly collect seeds and cones
Process and prepare collected seeds
Sell or donate seeds to the Minnesota DNR

Saturday, October 3, 2026. 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Becklin Homestead Park, 34605 Holly St. NW, Cambridge, MN 55008

Coffee, morning treats, and check-in begin at 9:00 a.m. At 9:30 a.m., participants will head out on the trails to begin collecting. All collection tools will be provided. Participants may travel off trail, so sturdy boots, long pants, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Register HERE

An optional webinar recording offers helpful background on identifying quality seed trees and properly collecting and storing seeds.

Reimbursement & Expense Reminders for Leaders

You must fill out this form when you are requesting reimbursement for purchases that were approved in your project budgets. Printed copies are available at our office.

Please note that it takes us 2-4 weeks to process check payments from the time that you turn in the form. So make sure you are planning ahead when you need checks or cash boxes.

This form and your receipt must be submitted to the office within 90 days of purchasing the item(s). After 90 days, purchasers are no longer eligible for reimbursement.

In many cases, it's more efficient for us to pay the vendor directly so this is our preferred method. This also allows us to set up the transaction as tax-exempt.

Cora may be able to order supplies for your project with the 4-H debit card.
Some businesses will allow you to send us the bill/invoice and we can mail a check payment to the business after you pick up the items.

Keep up to Date with the Isanti 4-H Council Discussions and Decisions

Join us for the next meeting 9/28/26 6:30 p.m. at the Isanti Government Center. OR Register for the Zoom Meeting (click here)
Agenda and minutes (click here). We will be voting on 2026-2027 animal and other project (ambassadors, shooting sports, robotics) budgets at this meeting.

Review the approved 2025-26 Council Budget here. Some highlights include:

Increased scholarships for 2026 state events
Needs based scholarships awarded at discretion of staff - contact the office to request a scholarship for any county, regional or state 4-H events.
New club fund, first aid kits, club activities, county merch for state events.

Review project/ program 2025-26 budgets here.

What are projects and clubs?

Projects

4-H refers to topic areas of interest as “projects”. For the full list of projects offered in MN 4-H visit z.umn.edu/4hproject. You should select projects that interest your child on 4-H Online to get emails about events and opportunities in that area. Within the county we have volunteer project leaders that are here to help you learn about that topic and answer your questions. If a project has no listed leader, we may still offer occasional statewide, regional, or county events in that topic area, or you can explore it independently through self‑guided learning.

Clubs

A 4-H club is a group of youth and adults who meet on a regular basis (usually monthly) and together practice positive youth development and cooperative learning.

4-H clubs strive to create, within their group, a quality learning environment that gives members a chance to be an active part of the decision making process; values and respects the voices of all; provides members an opportunity to reflect on and demonstrate their learning; connects members to their community through service; encourages the development of positive relationships with peers and adults; is welcoming and accessible to all; celebrates individual and group achievements; challenges youth to establish and meet individual goals; and provides for the physical and emotional safety of all.

Short Term

Robotics Program Helpers:

Support or lead teams of youth participants as they explore the design, construction, and programming of robots using a variety of platforms and software tools. A variety of roles are available and no prior robotics experience is necessary.
Practices are 2 Monday evenings a month 6pm-7pm at the Cambridge Public Library or other locations as noted near Cambridge.
See program flyer for more information.

Annual Volunteer Training Helpers:

TBD November evening.
Help setup room, serve food, and cleanup.

Fall Prairie Seed Collection Event Helpers:

We’re exploring a possible fall event in Isanti County where youth, adults, and community members of all ages can learn how to collect prairie perennial seeds and save them for planting next year. Right now, we’re gauging interest and seeing whether we have enough help to move forward.
This would be a one‑time, 1.5-2 hour event held sometime between mid‑October and early November at Springvale County Park (3361 Hwy 95 NW, Cambridge, MN 55008).
Depending on volunteer interest, the event may include learning stations on topics such as natural seed dispersal, seed dormancy, and collecting native seeds in the park, or it may be structured as a single group learning experience. If you are knowledgeable in any of these areas and would like to be a speaker or activity leader, please reach out. If you’re interested or would like more information, please contact Cora by 9/30. We will hold a virtual planning call on Monday, October 5th at 3 PM to choose a date for the event and finalize event details.

Project Workshop Day Instructors:

Is there a topic, game, or lesson you're interested in sharing with youth? Let us know! We are planning several workshop days this year.
Sessions are typically 45 minutes to 1 hour.
TBD Saturday morning February 2027

Long Term

Shooting Sports Coaches

Our shooting sports and wildlife program is growing and we need more volunteers to coach a variety of disciplines (especially BB/ Air Rifle, Archery, and Muzzleloading).
Weekly practices on Monday evenings May-August at the Isanti Sportsmen's Club in Cambridge, MN. The volunteer term is one season, however many of our coaches remain in this role for several years.
Coaches must complete a certification training hosted by the state. Coach training fees are paid by the county program, so there will be no out of pocket cost to you. Find a list of upcoming trainings here. Contact Cora for assistance registering for a training.

Ambassador Program Leaders

7-10 meetings throughout the year or as determined with 4-H staff.
Time to assist youth leaders in planning and coordinating county events, fundraisers, and community service opportunities.
Read the full role description here.

Become a Volunteer

The Minnesota 4-H Youth Development program relies on a team of screened and approved volunteers to deliver high quality, culturally responsive learning opportunities for Minnesota youth of all identities. You don’t need be an expert or a parent to make a difference in the life of a young person.

Anyone who is at least 18 years old by Sept. 1 can apply to become a screened and approved 4-H volunteer.
18-year-olds must be post-high school/GED and cannot be enrolled as both a 4-H member and a Minnesota 4-H volunteer. Once accepted as a Minnesota 4-H volunteer, they are no longer eligible for 4-H membership.
To ensure program quality and youth safety, we ask all of our volunteer applicants to go through a three-step screening process, including a criminal background check.

Resources for Current Volunteers

Online Annual Volunteer Training (AVT) Library: Did you miss AVT this year or want to explore the resources from past trainings? Check out the AVT library here.
Introduction to the core skills training videos: 4-H volunteers are on the front lines of delivering positive youth development experiences to young people across the Minnesota 4-H program. This training series will equip you with core skills and competencies in your role as a 4-H volunteer.
Youth Intervention Programs Association (YIPA): UMN Extension is a standard access YIPA member and that means our staff, interns and volunteers have access to hundreds of online learning opportunities through The Professional Youth Worker, YIPA's training platform for youth-serving professionals. Email Samantha Schindler (schin143@umn.edu) to be added to YIPA’s Learning Management System (LMS). Once you've created an account, start with the E-library for video tutorials and the user guide. Browse the full training catalog and filter by topic, skill, or format to find exactly what you need. Learn about topics that matter to your work—trauma-informed care, mental health, youth development, ethics, intercultural engagement, crisis intervention, self-care, leadership, and much more.
Supporting Youth with Disabilities in 4-H Judging Experiences (24 minute video)

Registration is open for club leader virtual orientation

Are you stepping into a role supporting 4-H clubs this year? Do you want to learn alongside other volunteers and connect with quality resources and tools to support your club? Join us for one of two virtual learning opportunities.

Thursday, Sept. 24 from 7 to 8:15 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 17 from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m.

This 75-minute online training is open to Minnesota 4-H volunteers, potential volunteers, and youth leaders as part of our statewide volunteer development webinar program. While the content is geared towards new club leaders, anyone providing leadership and support to a 4-H members' experience will benefit from the material. Registration is open now and will be available until one week before the webinar. Contact 4-H Volunteer Systems Director Jeremy Freeman at jeremyf@umn.edu with any questions. Learn more and register.

4-H Science Sprouts: Back by popular demand, with a new twist!

Youth in grades 3 - 5 are invited to join 4-H Science Sprouts for three fun, 30-minute virtual plant science STEM adventures! Explore pumpkins, wheat, and indoor gardening through hands-on activities while connecting with youth from across Minnesota. Virtual sessions will take place Oct. 26, Nov. 23 and Dec. 28 from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Registration is open throughout the program, so it’s never too late to join! Youth registered by Oct. 15 will receive a special supply kit in the mail. Come curious. Get growing. Explore plant science! Learn more and register.

Have a great time exploring cameras, photo elements, drones and much more at camera camp

In October, in a beautiful camp setting, Camp Edenwood in Eden Prairie, 4-H members in grades 7+ who are interested in photography will learn about the world of cameras, photo elements, lighting, drones, special effects, cellphones, and careers! There will be field trips to practice each photo concept they've learned about, led by experienced photographers! The camp will run from Thursday, Oct. 15 to Friday, Oct. 16. The cost is $50 (Contact Cora for scholarships). Registration will close on Sept. 28. Register now on 4-H Online. More information at: https://extension.umn.edu/event/4-h-camera-camp

4-H: Dairy tour 2023 - youth touring a dairy barn

4-H dairy tour registration is open

Join us for the 4-H dairy tour, a unique opportunity for youth in grades 7+. This 3-day, 2-night experience will take place Oct. 15 - 17, giving young people the opportunity to explore the UMN St. Paul campus and the dairy landscape of Wisconsin. Youth and adult chaperones will stay overnight in a hotel and be transported via motorcoach. During the tour, youth will explore different dairy farms, processing facilities, and careers within the dairy industry. Potential tour stops include the UMN St. Paul Campus, Marieke Gouda, Kinnards Farm, MilkSource, and more!

Space is limited to 45 youth and registration closes 9/21. Learn more and register.

Scholarships available contact Cora at rostx034@umn.edu for scholarship info.

4-H: Rendering of the teaching kitchen in the 4-H Building at the Minnesota State Fair.

4-H Building at the Minnesota State Fair renovation

We're excited to announce a new era of Minnesota 4-H at the Minnesota State Fair! With support from across the state and in partnership with the Minnesota State Fair, we're transforming the 4-H Building - a cherished space - into a home that will strengthen Minnesota 4-H for generations to come. Learn more about the renovation plans, which are expected to be complete for the 2027 fair, and how to donate to bring them to life.

Email Cora or Jennifer to reserve a kit or stop by the Extension Office in the Isanti County Government Center M-F from 8am-4:30pm.

Accommodations Kit:

This kit has been created to help strengthen our commitment to welcoming all youth – we cherish and value the diversity of humanity and believe in the power of ALL young people. 4-H strongly encourages you to utilize this kit to help foster inclusive spaces and provide simple accommodations for those engaged in our programs.
The kit was made possible through the generous support of the Leonard and Maxine Harkness Endowment Fund at the UMN Foundation.
Click here to learn more and see what's in the kit.

Calm Kit:

This kit focuses on mental health and tools to actively build resilience in youth.
The kit was made possible by the Bend, Don't Break Grant.
Items include: conversation starters, a program guide, sensory fidgets, grounding activities, and more.

ISANTI COUNTY 4-H

4-H is an out-of-school, hands-on learning program for people age 5-19. Youth choose a project that’s interesting to them and explore it with peers and caring adults. 4-H clubs are groups of youth who want to learn together and meet in every part of Minnesota.

Email: mnext-isanti@umn.edu
Website: https://extension.umn.edu/local/isanti
Location: 555 18th Avenue Southwest, Cambridge, MN, USA. We are in the Isanti County Government Center in the Extension office. Office hours M-F 8am-4:30pm.
Phone: 763-689-1810
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/isanticounty4h
Twitter: @IsantiCounty4H

Give to Isanti County 4-H: z.umn.edu/DonateToIsanti4H