4-H Static Exhibits

Plant Science

PLANT SCIENCE THEME EXHIBITS - Division 769
Cream of the Crop
Non-Competitive
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Horticulture project. Include cultivar or variety of exhibit. Entry may NOT be duplicated in other flower or vegetable classes. Plant, Vegetable, Flower, Display, Photo, Story, Report, or Poster - 14”x22”.
*G769500   Heirloom Cut Flower (5 stems)    
*G769501   Root Vegetables (2)
*G769502   Theme Planter
*G769503   Heirloom Vegetable (2)
*G769504   Floral Arrangement in bucket            
*G769505   Root display or poster
*G769506   Fairgrounds Beautification Planter (to be displayed outside on the fairgrounds)
*G769507   Vertical Garden
*G769508   Exhibit of Choice
HORTICULTURE PROJECT INFORMATION
The purpose of Horticulture is to encourage participants to start and maintain vegetable gardens. In addition, 4-H members can participate in planting, growing, and caring for flowers. 4-H members can also participate in the Special Garden Project in this department. 
See “General Rules” on page 19 for project information. 
4-H All-Star Champion and Reserve Champion Awards - Age Divisions (4-H age January 1, 2026): Sr. Division- 14 and older; Int. Division- 11-13; Jr. Division- 8-10.
Nebraska State Fair: Classes are eligible for State Fair competition unless marked with an * which denotes COUNTY CLASS ONLY. All static exhibits selected for the State Fair must receive a purple ribbon at county fair judging. 
Label each exhibit with exhibitor’s name on back or bottom of exhibit. Label all pieces of an exhibit. 
Exhibits released Sunday, July 26. No premium money given if exhibits are removed before deadline. Remaining exhibits should be picked up Monday, July 27.
HORTICULTURE JUDGING CONTEST
Online Contest: June 9-23, 2026
See Department 44 - 4-H Contests for more information.

COUNTY PLANT SCIENCE EXHIBIT - Division 771
CROPS OF AMERICA: COTTON  
Premium Category 7
Open to 4-H member enrolled in project at Extension Office. Grow two unique varieties of cotton—Arkansas Green Lint and Mississippi Brown—and learn how cotton is produced in the United States. Indicate cultivar or variety on entry.
*G771001  Cotton Collection (1 or 2 buckets)
*G771002  Write a Story, Essay or Poem about project experience/s. Include picture/s. Exhibit in a clear plastic report cover.
*G771003  Exhibit of Choice - focus on some aspect of the project.

VEGETABLE & FLOWER ART
Premium Category 7
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Plant Science project. Exhibit on heavy plate or base.
*G771005  Vegetable, Fruit and/or Flower Art Creature or Creation
*G771006  Floral Arrangement
*G771010  Pressed Flower Art
*G771011  Flower press made by 4-Her
*G771012  Exhibit of Choice

SPECIAL GARDEN PROJECT: Division 775
Premium Category 7
2026 plant is the Alumia Vanilla Cream marigold. Open to 4-H member enrolled in project at Extension Office. Pick up seeds at Extension Office. Indicate cultivar or variety on entry.
G775001   Educational Exhibit based on what was learned from project. Present information on poster 14”x22”, either vertical or horizontal, or in a clear plastic report cover. Exhibitor’s name, age and county must be on the back of poster or report cover.
G775002  Special Garden Project Cut Flower or Vegetable, 5 count

FLORICULTURE & HOUSEPLANTS - Division 770
Follow guidelines in 4-H “Preparing Cut Flowers for Exhibits” 4-H227
The cultivar or variety name must be included on all entry cards. If potted container with several cultivar or varieties identify each individually within the pot. Failure to identify the cultivar or variety will drop the entry one ribbon placing. Proper identification is the responsibility of the exhibitor, not the Extension staff or office personnel. For Floriculture, punch hole in the top center of entry tag, use a rubber band to securely attach entry tag to containers.
Exhibits entered under an incorrect class number or containing an incorrect number of stems will be dropped one ribbon placing. In classes 23, 45 & 46, do not duplicate entries from the already listed classes or entry will be dropped one ribbon placing. For example 4-H members with two cultivars or varieties of marigolds can only enter the marigold class and cannot enter the other cultivar or variety in any other class. A perennial is defined as a plant of which the crown overwinters. An annual is a plant that grows from seed each season, whether self-seeded or planted by the gardener. A biennial is a plant that germinates, grows and overwinters as a crown, blooms the following year and dies. Foliage will be considered when exhibit is judged.
All 3 or 5 stems of cut flowers should be the same cultivar and color, do not mix cultivars and colors. Containers will not be judged; however, they should be CLEAR GLASS CONTAINERS that won’t tip over (No plastic containers at State Fair) and of adequate size to display blooms. Any exhibit not in a clear glass container will be dropped one ribbon placing.

FLORICULTURE
Premium Category 7
Cut Flower Annuals and Biennials - 5 stems of a single variety (cultivar) unless otherwise noted in parenthesis.
G770001   Aster                                                       G770015   Pansy
G770002   Bachelor Buttons                                    G770016   Petunia
G770003   Bells of Ireland                                        G770017   Salvia
G770004   Browallia                                                 G770018   Snapdragon
G770005   Calendula                                                G770019   Statice
G770006   Celosia (crested or plume, 3)                  G770020   Sunflower  (under 3” diameter 5 stems, 3” or more, 3 stems)
G770007   Cosmos                   
G770008   Dahlia                                                
G770009   Dianthus
G770010   Foxglove                                                 G770021   Vinca
G770011   Gladiolus (3 stems)                                 G770022   Zinnia
G770012   Gomphrena                                            G770023   Any other annual or biennial
G770013   Hollyhock (3)                                                  (under 3” diameter-5 stems, 3” or more -  3 stems) 
G770014   Marigold                                                   
Cut Flower Perennials - 5 stems of a single variety (cultivar) unless otherwise noted in parenthesis.
G770030   Achillea/Yarrow                                      G770040   Platycodon    

G770031   Chrysanthemum                                    G770041   Rose (3 stems)
G770032   Coneflower                                            G770042   Rudbeckia/ 
G770033   Coreopsis                                                      Black-eyed Susan
G770034   Daisy                                                      G770043   Sedum
G770035   Gaillardia                                                G770044   Statice
G770036   Helianthus                                              G770045   Any other
G770037   Hydrangea (3 stems)                                    perennial (under 3” diameter - 5 stems, 3” or more -  3 stems)
G770038   Liatris (3 stems)               

G770039   Lilies (3 stems) (Not daylilies)                         

Premium Category 6
G770046  Flower Garden Collection of 5 Different Flowers- Display 
in a box or other holder not more than 18” in any dimension. Each flower in collection should be exhibited  with the number specified for classes 1-45. Do not duplicate entries in classes 1-45 with any in the group collection.

FLOWER EDUCATIONAL EXHIBIT
Premium Category 6
G770050  Flower Notebook- Exhibit pictures of flowers grown in Ne-
braska; must be at least 10 different species of annuals and/or biennials and 10 different species of perennials hardy to Nebraska. Bulbs may be included in a separate section. May show more than one cultivar of the same species, but they will only count as one species. Notebook must be the result of current year’s work. Pictures from garden catalogs, hand drawn pictures, or photographs may be used. Each species/cultivar must be labeled with correct common name and scientific name, height and spread of plant, and the growing conditions (ex: needs full sun and dry sandy soil) the species prefers. In addition to this information,  bulbs should be labeled as spring or summer flowering. Give proper credit by listing the sources of pictures and information used. The 4-H member’s name, age, years in the project/s, and county must be on the back of the notebook.

Premium Category 7
G770051  Flower Garden Poster- 14”x22”x2” poster (3-dimensional, 
if needed) illustrating skill or project you have done or learned in a 4-H flowers or houseplant project. Might show a special technique used or equipment incorporated in the garden. Refer to 4-H horticulture project manuals, but use your own creativity. Label on the back of the poster: member’s name, age, county and years in project/s.
G770052  Flower Garden Promotion Poster- 14”x22”, horizontal or 
vertical,  promoting flower gardening. May be any medium: watercolor, ink, crayon, etc. No 3-dimensional. Posters using copyrighted materials will not be accepted. Label on the back of the poster: member’s name, age, county and years in the project/s.
G770053  Flower Gardening History Interview- Handwritten or typed 
account of a gardening history interview whose flower garden has inspired you. Maximum 4 pages of text and 2 pages of pictures (include photo of the person you interviewed) of their flower garden if the individual is still gardening. Protect with clear report cover. Label on back: member’s name, age, county and years in the project/s.

HOUSEPLANTS
Premium Category 6
Enroll in Growing Great Houseplants. Choice of container and soil quality will be considered in judging. Each houseplant must be identified by listing the names on the entry or on a card attached to container. Identify each plant individually if more than one cultivar or variety. Houseplants should be grown in display container minimum of 6 weeks. Plants grown as houseplants must be used. See NebGuide G2205 “Guide to Growing Houseplants” and NebGuide G837 “Guide to Selecting Houseplants”. Containers of annual flowers or annual plants will be disqualified and will not be judged. 
Entries in Classes 60-66 must have been designed and planted by the 4-H member. Any container plant, (flowering or foliage potted houseplants, dish gardens, fairy or miniature gardens, desert gardens, or terrariums) shall be in containers no larger than 12 inches (use inside opening measurement) in any dimension of length or width. No combination of pots may be used. All potted plants are to be in a one pot container. Any container grown plant in Classes 60-66 that does not follow these guidelines will be dropped one ribbon placing
Each exhibit must include a saucer to catch drainage water. Label with: member’s name, age, county and years in the project/s must be on the bottom or back of the container and saucer.

G770060  Flowering Potted Houseplant/s that are blooming for exhibition. 
Container may have one or more houseplants in container. Label with name for each plant. 
G770061  Foliage Potted Houseplant - one variety of tropical or cacti or 
succulent plant. Label with name of plant
G770062  Hanging Basket - of Flowering or Foliage Houseplants. Container may have one or more houseplants in container. Label with name for each plant.
G770063  Dish Garden- Open/shallow container featuring a variety
of house plants, excluding cacti and succulents. Label with name for each plant. 
G770064  Fairy or Miniature Garden- A miniature “scene” contained in an open container and featuring miniature or small, slow growing houseplants. Garden needs to have an imaginative theme and miniature accessories (ex: bench, fence made from tiny twigs, small shell for a bathtub, etc.) Label with name for each plant. 
G770065  Desert Garden- Open/shallow container featuring a variety of
cacti and/or succulents grown as houseplants. Label with name for each plant. 
G770066  Terrarium- Transparent container, partially or completely enclosed; sealed or unsealed. Label with name for each plant. 
*G770067 Hanging Basket or Planter/Pot of Outdoor Plant/s

VEGETABLES, HERBS, FRUITS 
& EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS - Division 773
The cultivar or variety name must be included on all entry cards. Failure to identify the cultivar or variety will lower the entry one ribbon placing. Proper identification is the responsibility of the exhibitor, not the Extension staff or office personnel. Exhibits entered under an incorrect class number or containing an incorrect number of vegetables will be lowered one ribbon placing. In classes 252, 255, 268, 269, 285 and 286 do not duplicate entries from any of the other classes or entry will be lowered one ribbon placing. For example: 4-H’ers with two cultivars or varieties of red tomatoes can only enter the red tomatoes class and cannot enter the other cultivar or variety in any other vegetable class.
Follow the guidelines in Selecting and Preparing Vegetables, Herbs and Fruits for Exhibit 4H226 when preparing entries for the fair. At State Fair, plates will be provided for the exhibitor.

VEGETABLES
Premium Category 7
Paper plates will be provided for exhibits. Cultivar or variety name must be on entry.  Vegetables must be grown by exhibitor.

G773201   Lima Beans, 12                       G773229   Pumpkin, 2
G773202   Snap Beans, 12                       G773230   Miniature Pumpkins
G773203   Wax Beans, 12                               (Jack Be Little type), 5
G773204   Beets, 5                                   G773231   Radish, 5
G773205   Broccoli, 2                               G773232   Rhubarb, 5      
G773206   Brussels Sprouts, 12                G773233   Rutabaga, 2
G773207   Green Cabbage, 2                   G773234   Green Summer     
G773208   Red Cabbage, 2                                        Squash, 2
G773209   Carrots, 5                                G773235   Yellow Summer 
G773210   Cauliflower, 2                                             Squash, 2
G773211   Slicing Cucumbers, 2              G773236   White Summer 
G773212   Pickling Cucumbers, 5                               Squash, 2
G773213   Eggplant, 2                             G773237   Acorn Squash, 2
G773214   Kohlrabi, 5                              G773238   Butternut Squash, 2
G773215   Muskmelon/Cantaloupe, 2    G773239   Buttercup Squash, 2
G773216   Okra, 5                                   G773240   Other Winter Squash, 2     

G773217   Yellow Onions, 5               
G773218   Red Onions, 5                         G773241   Sweet Corn (in husks), 5
G773219   White Onions, 5              
G773220   Parsnips, 5                              G773242   Swiss Chard, 5
G773221   Bell Peppers, 5                        G773243   Red Tomatoes (2” or 
G773222   Sweet (Non-Bell)                                      more in diameter), 5
                     Peppers, 5                           G773244   Roma or Sauce-type
G773223   Jalapeno Peppers, 5                                 Tomatoes, 5    
G773224   Hot (Non-Jala) Peppers, 5      G773245   Salad Tomatoes (under 2” diameter), 12                
G773225   White Potatoes, 5                   G773246  Yellow Tomatoes (2” or more in diameter), 5
G773226   Red Potatoes, 5                          
G773227   Russet Potatoes, 5                  G773247     Turnips, 5       
G773228   Other Potatoes, 5                   G773248   Watermelon, 2
G773249   Dry Edible Beans, 1 pint
G773250   Gourds, mixed types, 5
G773251   Gourds, single variety, 5
G773252   Any other vegetable 2, 5, 12 (do not duplicate entries in classes G773201-G773251) that doesn’t fit any other class

Premium Category 6
G773255  Vegetable Garden Collection- Exhibit five kinds of vegetables 
displayed in box not more than 24” in any dimension. 
Showmanship will be considered in judging, but plastic grass, cotton, figurines, etc. should not be used. Exhibit number of 
vegetables shown above. Must be vegetables not exhibited in classes G773201-G773252.
G773256  Cultivar Vegetable Collection- Exhibit a collection of 5 cultivars
from a single exhibit; for examples, 5 cultivars of all types of peppers or squash or onions or  tomatoes, etc. Display in a box maximum 24” in dimension. Showmanship will be considered in judging, but plastic grass, cotton, figurines, etc. should not be used. Exhibit number of vegetables shown above.

HERBS
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Herbs will be judged using the same general criteria used for vegetables. Those grown mainly for their seed, such as dill and caraway, should be exhibited on a plate. Those grown for their leaves such as basil, parsley, etc. should be exhibited in a CLEAR GLASS CONTAINER of water (no plastic containers). Potted herb plants will be disqualified and will not be judged.
G773260   Basil, 5                     G773265   Parsley, 5
G773261   Dill (dry), 5               G773266   Sage, 5
G773262   Garlic (bulbs), 5       G773267   Thyme, 5
G773263   Mint, 5                     G773268   Any other herb, 5 (do not duplicate entries in classes G773260-G773267)
G773264   Oregano, 5         

Premium Category 6
G773269  Herb Garden Display- Display 5 different cut herbs. Herbs must
be cut, not potted. Displayed in a box or other holder not more than 18” in any dimension. Must be herbs not exhibited in class G773260-G773268. Each herb should be exhibited with the number specified for classes G773260-G773268. Cultivar or variety name must be on entry tag.

FRUITS
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Fruit will be judged for the stage of maturity normal for that season and growing location. Emphasis will be placed on how well fruit approaches market quality. Cultivar or variety name must be on entry.

G773280   Strawberries (ever bearers), 1 pint
G773281   Grapes, 2 bunches
G773282   Apples, 5
G773283   Pears, 5
G773284   Wild Plums, 1 pint
G773285   Other small fruit or berries, 1 pint (do not duplicate entries in classes G773280-G773284)
G773286   Other fruits or nuts, 5 (do not duplicate entries in classes G773280-G773284)

EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS
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G773290  Garden Promotion Poster- Promote vegetable or herb gardening, 14”x22”, either vertical or horizontal. Poster may be in any medium; no 3-dimensional. No copy-righted materials. Label back of poster with Member’s name, age, county and years in the project/s.
G773291  Educational Vegetable or Herb Garden Poster- 14”x22”x2” poster (3-dimensional, if needed), vertical or horizontal, illustrating a skill or project the 4-H member has done or learned. One might show a special technique used or equipment incorporated in the garden (e.g., drip irrigation system, composting, or special techniques learned). Label poster with: member’s name, age, county and years in project/s.
G773292  Vegetable and/or Herb Gardening History Interview- Handwritten or typed account of a gardening history interview of someone whose vegetable or herb garden has inspired you. Maximum 4 pages of text and 2 pages of pictures (include photo of the person you interviewed) of their garden if the individual is still gardening. Protect with clear report cover. On the back, label with name, age, county, years in project/s.
Premium Category 6
G773293  Vegetable Seed Display- Display must include seeds representing the following families: Cucurbit, Brassica (cabbage), Solanaceous (nightshade), and Legume (pea) families plus representatives from five other families. Group seeds by family and     type. Glue seeds or otherwise fasten clear containers of seeds to a board or poster mat board no larger than 22”x24”. Label each     group and each individual vegetable type with the common and scientific names. Use only one variety or cultivar of each vegetable, except for beans where several examples of beans may be shown. Attach a card to the back of display explaining why and how it is  important to know which vegetables are related; cite references on where the scientific name information was found. On the back, label with name, age, county and years in the project/s.
G773294  World of Vegetables Notebook- Choose a favorite foreign cuisine and learn what vegetables and/or herbs are common to it (ex: Mexican, African, Chinese, Italian, etc.). Include a handwritten report talking about a minimum of 5 vegetables and/or herbs from each country chosen. Include the scientific and common names, pictures from your garden or seed catalogs; tell     how they are grown, and how the foods are used. Also list a source for buying the seed or plants. Favorite recipes using some or all of the vegetables described may be included. Give proper credit by     listing the source of pictures and information used. Protect in a clear report cover or small 3-ring notebook. Label with name, age, county, and years in the project on back cover of report or notebook.

AGRONOMY & CROP PRODUCTION - Division 750
FIELD CROPS
Premium Category 6
Individuals in the Crop Production, Field Crops project may exhibit grain or plants to prepare an educational display representing their project. The purpose of these exhibits is to demonstrate to the public the benefits from the study and application of crop, weed, range and soil sciences to solving problems in management, conservation, sustainability and environmental protection. For guidelines on specific projects, refer to appropriate project manuals. 
Grain or Plant Exhibits: A completed Crop Production Worksheet (available at https://go.unl.edu/cropworksheet) must accompany grain and plant exhibits or it will be deducted one ribbon placing. The worksheet must include the exhibitors name and address, county, plant hybrid or variety, plant population, whether crop production was irrigated or dry-land, and general information including farm cropping history, soil type and weather effects. Include an economic analysis of the project, listing individual expenses and income, on a per acre basis. Other topics to discuss are the selection of variety or hybrid, impacts of decisions on tillage and conservation practices, inputs (fuel, fertilizer, irrigation, labor, pesticides, etc.), any observations made during the growing season, and what you learned from your crops project. Worksheet counts as 50% of the score. Worksheet must be the original work of the 4-H member or it will be lowered one ribbon placing. Attach worksheet to the entry in a clear plastic cover that it can be read without removing it from the cover. In addition to the worksheet, grain and plant exhibits will be judged on condition, appearance (i.e., disease and insect damage, grain fill), uniformity (size, shape, color, maturity) and quality of exhibit.
Grain exhibits must be one gallon per sample. Grain exhibits harvested in the fall (i.e., corn or soybeans) may be from the previous year’s project. Plant exhibits, with the exception of ears of corn, must be the result of the current year’s project. Grain Sorghum- 4 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together). Small Grains (oats, barley, wheat, triticale)- sheaf of heads 2” in diameter at top, tie with stems 24” long.
G750001  Corn - 10 ears or 3 stalks (cut at ground level with no roots or soil and bound together); includes yellow, white, pop, waxy, or any other type.
G750002  Soybeans - 6 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together)
G750003  Oats
G750004  Wheat
G750005  Other Crops (grain sorghum, alfalfa, millets, barley, rye, triticale, amaranth, dry beans, sugar beet, mung bean, canola, forage sorghum, safflower, etc.).
Displays: Purpose of the display is to tell an educational story. Display is a visual representation (pictures, charts, graphs) no larger than 28” wide x 28” tall on plywood or poster board. The display should be neatly titled. Label with exhibitor’s name, address and county on back side. Explain pictures and graphs clearly and concisely. Must have a one page essay explaining why the 4-H member chose the area of display and what they learned from their project. Include any references used. The essay should be in a clear plastic report cover with the 4-H member’s name outside. If a display does not have an essay, it will be deducted one ribbon placing
G750006  Crop Production Display- Purpose of this class is to allow original, creative exhibits that contain educational information about crop     production aspects, such as crop scouting, alternative crops, pest management, etc.
G750007  Crop Technology Display- Display information about aspects of technology used in crop production, such as genetic engineering, crop breeding, GPS, yield mapping, computers, etc.
G750008  Crop End Use Display- Information about the final product or end uses for a crop, such as food, feed, fuel or other products.         Ex: corn can be processed into livestock feed, ethanol, plastics, etc. or soybeans can be processed into bio-diesel, pet bedding, crayons, oil, etc. This should not be about the process of crop production but focus on end product(s).
G750009  Water or Soil Display- Information about water or soils, such as how soils are being used for crop production, range, conservation, wildlife, or wetland use, or ways to protect or conserve water and soil resources.
G750010  Career Interview Display- Investigate a career in agronomy. Interview 1 person who works with crops about such topics as what parts of their job do they enjoy or dislike, why did they choose that career, what was their education, etc. Include a picture of the person interviewed.
    
SPECIAL AGRONOMY PROJECT    
The crop of the year for 2026 is Popcorn. Explore agronomy by growing two varieties of popcorn—Nebraska Red, an heirloom discovered in eastern Nebraska, and Robust 997, a commercial variety. Youth will plant, research, and evaluate how these crops grow and their potential uses in Nebraska agriculture. Youth will be eligible to enter an exhibit at both the county and/or state fair in the agronomy project area. 
Supporting documentation (½ to 1-page in length) should include the following: Economic Analysis and/or research that supports feasibility of this crop in Nebraska or how the crop has evolved over time. Other topics to discuss are past/current commercial production of this crop. This includes: the selection of variety or hybrid, impacts of tillage and conservation practices, inputs (fuel, fertilizer, irrigation, labor, pesticides, etc.), any observations made during the growing season about this crop and what you learned from your crops project. This ½ to 1-page summary counts as 50% of the total when judged. In addition to the summary, grain and plant exhibits will be judged on condition, appearance (i.e. disease and insect damage, grain fill), uniformity (size, shape, color, maturity), and quality of exhibit.
G750011 - Special Agronomy Project -  Educational Exhibit (SF259)- based on what was learned from the project. Present information no larger than 28 inches wide by 28 inches tall on plywood or poster board The 4-H member’s name, age, and county must be on the back of the poster or report cover. Refer to Scoresheet SF259. Each display must have a 1/2-page essay (minimum) explaining why the exhibitor chose the area of display and what they learned from their project. Include references used.
G750012 Special Agronomy Project -Video Presentation - 4-H member designs a multimedia presentation related to the crop. This could include narration of the growing process, presenting facts about the crop or any other innovative multimedia practices. The presentation should be at least 2 minutes in length and no more than 5 minutes in length, appropriate graphics, sound and either a video clip, animation or voice over and/or original video clip. Presentations are to be uploaded to a video streaming application and 4-H member must provide a hard copy QR code for viewing. 4-H members are encouraged to test their codes or link on several devices to check for appropriate permissions for public viewing.
G750013 Special Agronomy Project (Freshly Harvested Crop) Plant exhibits must be the result of the current year’s project. Depending on the type of crop selected for the current year: Corn - 10 ears or 3 stalks (cut at ground level with no roots or soil and bound together) Grain Sorghum - 4 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together) Soy beans - 6 stalks (cut at ground level and bound together) Small grains (oats, barley, wheat, triticale) - sheaf of heads 2 inches in diameter at top tie with stems about 24” long. Other crops (alfalfa, sunflowers, millet, etc.) - sheaf of stems 3 inches in diameter at top 
tied with stems cut at ground level.
    
WEED SCIENCE - Division 751
Premium Category 6
4-H member enrolled in the Conservation, Environment 1, 2, or 3, Reading the Range 1 or Using Nebraska Range 2, or Crop Production, Field Crops projects may exhibit a weed book or weed display. The book cover and at least 15 specimens must be this year’s work (after the previous county fair to present day). For assistance identifying plants, refer to Nebraska Department of Agriculture’s Weeds of Nebraska and the Great Plains Book. Judging based on completeness of plant mount, accuracy of identification, label, neatness, and conformity to exhibit requirements.
Books- Display one plant on the book cover. Plants must be mounted on sheets that are no larger than 14” wide x 14” high. Proper plant mount should include root as well as stem and leaf tissue. Plants should be glued rather than taped and the mounts should be protected with a clear cover. Each completed mount must have the following information in the lower right corner of the mounting sheet: 1) Scientific name (in italic or underlined) with authority, 2) Common name, 3) County of collection, 4) Collection date, 5) Collector’s name, 6) Personal collection number, indicating the order that plants were collected- in your personal collection, 7) Other information depending on class exhibited (ex: noxious, life form). This information should be typed or printed neatly. Exhibits will be judged based on completeness of plant mount, accuracy of identification, label, neatness, and conformity to exhibit requirements.
Displays- Purpose of display is to tell an educational story. The display is a visual presentation (pictures, charts, graphs) no larger than 28”x28” plywood or poster board. The display should be neatly titled. Label with 4-H member’s name, address and county on back side. Explain pictures and graphs clearly and concisely. Must have a one page essay explaining why 4-H member chose the area of display and what they learned from their project. Include any references used. The essay should be in a clear plastic report cover with the 4-H member’s name outside.
G751001  Weed Identification Book- A collection of a minimum of 15 plant mounts, including at least 2 of the following prohibited noxious weeds (Canada thistle, musk thistle, plumeless thistle, salt cedar, leafy spurge, purple lossestrife, diffuse knapweed, spotted knap weed, Japanese knapweed, bohemian knotweed, giant knotweed, sericea lespedeza or phragmites), and at least 5 weeds that are a problem primarily in lawns.
G751002  Life Span Book- A collection of 7 perennials, 1 biennial, and 7 annual weeds.       
G751003  Weed Display- Purpose of this class is to allow original, creative exhibits that contain educational information about weeds, such as interesting information about a weed species, the effects of weed control, herbicide resistant weeds, what make a weed a weed, or uses for weeds.

PROJECT INFORMATION
See “General Rules” on page 19 for project information. 
Nebraska State Fair: Classes are eligible for State Fair competition unless marked with an * which denotes COUNTY CLASS ONLY. All static exhibits selected for the State Fair must receive a purple ribbon at county fair judging. Label each exhibit with exhibitor’s name on back or bottom of exhibit. Label all pieces of an exhibit. 
Exhibits released Sunday, July 26. No premium money given if exhibits are removed before deadline. Remaining exhibits should be picked up Monday, July 27.

Environmental Education & Earth Science

The purpose of this category is to help 4-Her’s identify and collect range plants. In addition, participants will learn the basics of range management, and Nebraska’s range. Through the creation of range boards 4-Her’s will become more proficient in knowledge of Nebraska’s range. 
 Each exhibit must be properly identified with Unit and Class. All plant displays and display covers must be the result of the current year’s work.
Plant identification and lists of appropriate plants in each category (grasses, forbs, shrubs, and grass-like plants) can be found in the Range Judging Handbook Contest Guide (EC 150, revised July 2024), Common Grasses of Nebraska (EC 170) and Common Forbs and Shrubs of Nebraska (EC 118).
The purpose of these exhibits is to demonstrate to the public the benefits from the study and application of crop, weed, range and soil sciences to solving problems in management, conservation, sustainability and environmental protection.
Books (classes 1-6) - Plants must be mounted on sheets that are no larger than 14” wide by 14” high. Plants should be glued rather than taped and the mounts should be protected with a clear cover. Proper plant mount should include root as well as stem and leaf tissue. Each completed mount must have the following information in the lower right corner of the mounting sheet: 1) Scientific name (in italic or underlined), with authority, 2) Common name, 3) County of collection, 4) Collection date, 5) Collector’s name, 6) Personal collection number, indicating order that plants were collected in your personal collection, 7) Other information, depending on class selected, e.g., value and importance, life span, growth season, origin, types of range plants. This information should be typed or printed neatly. Exhibits judged on completeness of plant mount, accuracy of identification, labeling, neatness and conformation to project requirements.
D330001  Value and Importance for Livestock Forage and Wildlife Habitat and Food Book-  A collection of 12 different plant mounts, with 4 classified as high value, 4 as medium value, and 4 as low value for livestock forage, wildlife habitat, or wildlife food. Value and importance classifications can be found in the Range Judging Handbook and Contest Guide, Appendix Table 1 (EC150, Revised July 2016), starting on page 42. Plants can consist of any combination of grasses, grass-like plants, forbs or shrubs. Assemble plant mounts in order of high, medium, and low importance classifications for each of the three areas: Livestock Forage, Wildlife Habitat, Wildlife Food.
D330002  Life Span Book- A collection of 6 perennial plant mounts and 6 annual plant mounts selected from grasses or forbs.
D330003  Growth Season Book- A collection of 6 cool-season grass mounts and 6 warm-season grass mounts.
D330004  Origin Book- A collection of plant mounts of 6 native range grasses and 6 introduced grasses. Introduced grasses are not from North America and often used to seed pastures.
D330005  Major Types of Range Plants Book- A collection of plant mounts of 3 grasses, 3 forbs, 3 grass-like and 3 shrubs.
D330006  Range Plant Collection Book- Collection of 12 range plant mounts with something in common (i.e. poisonous to cattle, historically used as food by Native Americans, dye plants, or favorite antelope forage, etc.). Include a short paragraph at the front of the book which describes what the plants have in common and why you have chosen to collect them. Displays (class 7)- Purpose of display is to tell an educational story. The display is a visual presentation (pictures, charts, graphs) no larger than 28”x28” plywood or poster board. The display should be neatly titled. Label with exhibitor’s name, address and county on back side.
D330007  Parts of a Range Plant Poster- Mount a range plant on a poster-board. Label the key plant parts useful for ID & correct for that plant species such as root, branch, cotyledon, petiole, midrib, stem, node, leaf, leaflet, spikelet, collar, ligule, sheath, internode, culm, crown, flower, etc. Include plant label in the lower right corner. 4-H member name and 4-H county should be on the back of the poster. Boards (class 8-9) - Maximum 30” wide x 36” tall or if hinged in the middle a maximum of 50” wide x 36” tall. Boards must be adequately labeled.
D330008  Special Study Board- A display of the results of a clipping study, a degree of use study or a range site study, etc.
D330009  Junior Rancher Board- Include a ranch map with record book or an appropriate educational display on some phase of rangeland or livestock management.

FORESTRY - Division 320
TREE IDENTIFICATION
LEAFING OUT
Premium Category 6
Official reference for forestry exhibits is revised Tree Identification Manual (4-H 332). Other resources: Trees of Nebraska (EC 92-1774-X).
General Information
This category provides 4-H members an opportunity to prepare displays that shows their expertise in many aspects of forestry. Involvement in this category will lead to expansion of seed, twig, wood, leaf, and tree knowledge for 4-H members. In addition, members would learn more about common Nebraskan trees. For more information about tree classification visit this website https://4hcurriculum.unl.edu/index.php/main/program_project/65    
Display boards must be made from wood or wood composite, (ex: plywood, fiberboard or masonite), 1/4” to 1/2” thick and no larger than 24”x24”. Display boards may be coated on both sides (painted or varnished) to prevent warping. Display posters must be made from a material, (ex: foam board or poster-board) that will upright without buckling, no larger than 24”x24”. Display books must measure no more than 16”x16”.
At least 5 of the 10 samples in class #2,3,4,and 5 must be from the list of 60 species described in 4-H 332. Samples to be judged must be from 10 different tree species. Ex: Emerald Queen Maple and Crimson King Maple are both varieties of the same species (Norway Maple), and thus have the same genus and species name, i.e. Acer platanoides. All samples must be from trees, NO shrubs. If more than 10 samples are included in the display, only the first 10 samples from the current year will be judged. Due to emerald ash borer infestation, no true ash species (Green Ash, White Ash, Black Ash, or Blue Ash) may be included in any collections. Inclusion of a true ash species will result in the project being disqualified.
General labeling standards apply. Ex: scientific names are always italicized or underlined. Also, the first letter of a Genus name is always capitalized. The first letter of a species name is always lower case. When required, always indicate complete scientific names (Genus and species) and common names (e.g. Norway Maple), even when “variety names” are included. Ex: the scientific name of Emerald Queen Maple is Acer platanoides and the common name is Norway Maple. “Emerald Queen” may be included as the variety name, but variety names are not required. How well the 4-H member follows written directions is an important factor in judging.
D320001  Design Your Own Exhibit- Educational exhibit about some aspect of trees, forests or forestry that is of special interest to you. Possible topics include paper recycling, wild fire, forest products, forest wildlife, or forest pests. Maximum display size 24”x24”. Photographs, drawings, samples, charts, posters, etc. can be used, but include enough information to adequately explain the topic. Display should be substantially different from other display classes. Be creative!
D320002  Leaf Display- Include samples of “complete leaves” from at least 10 different tree species. Include at least two samples of simple leaves, compound leaves, and conifer leaves. Leaves should be pressed, dried and mounted.
Collection: Whenever possible, collect leaves from mature trees. Collect leaves any time after they have reached full size, usually beginning in early summer. Leaf samples should be in good condition, representative of the average leaves on the tree. Shaded leaves are often much larger than normal. Carefully remove leaves from the twig with the entire petiole or rachis intact. During collection, fresh leaf samples can be temporarily stored within the pages of an old magazine, but they should be properly pressed and dried for display. Record pertinent information during collection. All collection must be done by the 4-H member.
Mounting: Leaves may be displayed in a notebook or on a display board. Any method may be used to mount leaves, Ex: wire, glue, tape, staples, plastic bags, but be sure all their features can be clearly identified.
Labeling: Label for each sample must include: 1) common name, 2) scientific name, 3) leaf type, 4) leaf arrangement (for broad-leaf trees), 5) leaf composition (for broad-leaf trees), 6) collector’s name, 7) collection date, 8) collection location (be specific- county and state at a minimum). If a twig is included with a sample, indicate “twig included” on the label. Ex: twig may be included with an eastern cedar sample because the leaves are very small and difficult to remove from the twig. Supplemental information (Ex: general uses, common products, fall color, etc.) may be included to enhance educational value.
D320003  Twig Display- Include twig samples from at least 10 different tree species. Display must include at least two samples of opposite and     alternate leaf arrangements from broad-leaf trees.
Collection: Twig samples should be collected during the dormant season (November-April) when the buds are mature. Twig samples must be at least 6” long and exhibit buds. Leaves must be removed, and side branches must be trimmed to less than 1 inch in length. All collection must be done by the exhibitor.
Mounting: Twigs must be mounted on a display board. Any method, e.g. wire, glue, tape, staples, plastic bags, etc. may be used to mount twigs, but be sure all features can be clearly identified. Non-terminal-end must be cut at a slant so the pith can be seen.
Labeling: The label for each sample must include: 1) common name, 2) scientific name, 3) leaf arrangement (for broad-leaf trees), 4) collector’s name, 5) collection date, 6) collection location (be specific, including county and other relevant information). Supplemental information (ex. General uses, tree characteristics, etc.) may be included to enhance educational value.
D320004  Seed Display- Must include seed samples from at least 10 different tree species.
Collection: Tree seeds should be collected at the time of year when they mature, which varies widely depending upon tree species. Ex: Silver maple seeds mature in May while red oak acorns do not mature until September. Seed samples should be free of insect or disease symptoms. Display seeds, not fruit. Ex: the seed of Honeylocust is enclosed in a pod. Remove and display the seed, not just the pod. It is acceptable to display the fruit with the seed, but clearly label each. All collection must be done by the 4-H member.
Mounting: Seeds may be displayed in a variety of ways (Ex: mounted on a display board, displayed in jars in a rack, etc.) but they must be securely mounted and easily viewed. 
Labeling: The labels for each sample must include: 1) common name, 2) scientific name, 3) type of fruit, if known (ex: samara, pod, nut, legume, etc.), 4) collector’s name, 5) collection date, 6) collection location (be specific- state and county at a minimum). Supplemental information (Ex: maturity date, average number of seed in the fruit, etc.), may be included to enhance educational value.

D320005  Wood Display- Include wood samples from at least 10 different tree species.
Preparation: Samples may be of any shape, (Ex: sections from a board, wood cylinders turned on a lathe, horizontal or vertical cross sections of a small log with bark attached), but all samples should be the same shape (Ex: all wood cylinders or all sections of a board). Each sample can be no larger than 4”x4”x4”. Cut surfaces should be sanded to show the grain. Treating samples with a clear finish (no stain) is optional. All collection must be done by exhibitor.
Mounting: Samples may be displayed in a variety of ways, (Ex: mounted on a display board, displayed in a box or rack, etc.), but they must be securely mounted and easily viewed. Be creative!
Labeling: The label for each sample must include: 1) common name, 2) scientific name, 3) wood type (softwood or hardwood), 4) collector’s name, 5) collection date, 6) collection location (be specific- county and state at a minimum). Supplemental information (Ex: common products, wood density, etc.), may be included to enhance educational value.
D320006  Cross Section- Display a disc cut from a tree, species listed in 4-H 332. Sample must be collected, by the 4-H member, within one     year of the state fair judging day. Disc must measure 6-12” in diameter and 1-3” thick. Bark should be firmly attached, which maybe difficult if the tree was dead when the disc was cut. Sand at least one side of the disc so the grain can be easily seen. If the disc is treated with a clear finish, both sides must be treated to minimize warping. As the disc dries, some cracking or checking can be expected and is allowed.
Labeling: The following parts must be clearly and accurately labeled on the cross section with pins, paper tags, or some other form of identification: 1) pith, 2) heartwood, 3) sapwood, 4) one growth ring (beginning and end), 5) cambium and 6) bark. A separate label attached to the back of the disc must include: 7) common name, 8) scientific name, 9) tree classification (softwood or hardwood), 10) age (of the cross section), 11) collector’s name, 12) collection date, 13) collection location (be specific- county and state at a minimum).
D320007  Parts of A Tree (only for youth ages 8-11)- Prepare a poster, no larger than 24”x24”, that clearly identifies the main external parts of any tree: a) Trunk,  b) Crown, c) Roots, d) Leaves, e) Flowers, f) Fruit, g) Buds and h) Bark. Identifying other internal parts (ex. phloem, xylem, cambium, annual ring, pith, etc.), is optional. Attach a separate  label on the back of the poster that includes the 4-H member’s name and age.
D320008  Living Tree- Display a living tree seedling grown by the 4-H member from seed in the display container. Seed must be from a species listed in 4-H 332. The seedling must be 60 days to 1 year old (on State Fair judging date, if exhibiting at the Nebraska State Fair). Display container must contain at least 8” of soil (potting mix or suitable natural soil), have drainage hole/s, and a drain pan to catch drainage water.
Labeling: A waterproof label must be attached and include: 1) common name, 2) scientific name, 3) seed treatments (if any), 4) planting date, 
5) emergence date, 6) exhibitor’s name. Supplemental information about the tree (Ex: where the seed was collected, growth measurements, uses for that species, etc.), may be included in an attached notebook, poster, etc. to enhance educational value.
D320009 - Forest Product Display - Prepare a visual display and/or collection tracing the origin of one non-lumber product that comes from trees and/or forests. The display must be no larger than 24 inches by 22 inches by 28 inches. Photographs, drawings, samples, charts, posters, etc. can be used. Posters submitted may be no larger than 22” x 28” and may be either vertical or horizontal. The contestant must identify what species of tree the product is derived from and where the product is harvested, grown, or otherwise collected. The product listed must be partially or fully derived from trees; if partial the approximate percentage should be articulated in the display. The goal of this exhibit is for students to learn that many products come from trees and forests and to explore one of these products through in-depth study. Information about the tree or forest product: e.g. information about harvesting, processing, industry information, and environmental or other benefits may be included to enhance educational value. 
Supplemental information will be an important factor in judging but should not exceed three printed pages of text. Cite sources of information. Personal interviews with industry professionals are encouraged as a source of information.
D320010 Forest Health Display - Prepare a visual display outlining a specific forest health issue such as a tree disease, insect pest, animal- or human-caused damage, or an abiotic issue such as weather damage. The display must be no larger than 24 inches by 24 inches by 24 inches. Original photographs, drawings, samples, charts, posters, etc. can be used. Actual specimens are strongly encouraged but must be properly preserved, i.e. insects pinned or placed in vials of alcohol, leaves pressed and dried. Posters submitted may be no larger than 24 inches x 24 inches. 
Explain through the display what species of trees the health issue affects, diagnostic features of the issue (symptoms in trees, identifying features of the pest, etc.), and management options.
Labeling: Include common and scientific names of trees and pests. Attach a separate label on the back of the display that includes the exhibitor’s name and age.
Supplemental information about the tree or forest health issue: e.g. origin, proliferation in Nebraska/United States, and physiological effects on the tree may be included to enhance educational value. Supplemental information will be an important factor in judging but should not exceed three printed pages of text. Cite sources of information.
D320011 Wildfire Prevention Poster - Prepare a poster, no larger than 24 inches x 24 inches that promotes wildfire prevention strategies. Strategies articulated in the poster can include personal and/or land management actions. Attach a separate label on the back of the poster that includes the 4-H member’s name and age.
Supplemental information about wildfire prevention should be attached to the poster: e.g. frequency of wildfires in Nebraska/United States, financial costs of wildfires, environmental factors that contribute to wildfires, etc. to enhance educational value. Supplemental information will be an important factor in judging but should not exceed three printed pages of text. Cite sources of information
D320012 Sustainable Landscape Diorama - Box must be no larger than 24”x24”. The exhibit must show a Nebraska landscape that includes elements such as windbreaks, fields, pastureland, CRP, public lands, community/municipal landscapes. The goal of this exhibit is for students to articulate conservation and sustainability best-practices that can be implemented on a landscape, while addressing landowner and other stakeholder interests. 
Labeling: label point/nonpoint sources of pollution, carbon sequestration, water-wise practices, wildfire prevention strategies, renewable energy sources, and other conservation practices as well as at least 10 species of plants included in the diorama. 
Supplemental information: Attach to the exhibit a brief report including supplemental information describing the diorama, defining conservation practices, and outlining opportunities for landscape improvements to enhance educational value. Supplemental information will be an important factor in judging but should not exceed three printed pages of text. Cite sources.
D320013 – Tree Planting Project Display – Plant a tree in your community. Prepare a visual display where the student articulates proper tree planting techniques, why the individual tree species was chosen, as well as steps taken to continue care for the tree after initial planting. The display must be no larger than 24 inches by 24 inches by 24 inches. Photographs, drawings, samples, charts, posters, etc. can be used. Posters submitted may be no larger than 24 inches x 24 inches. The tree must have been planted 60 days to 1 year before State Fair judging day. Students must obtain per mission from necessary authorities and property owners before planting any trees.  
Labeling: the following information about the tree must be included in the display: 1. common name 2. scientific name 3. planting location 4. planting date 5. tree source 6. planter’s name 7. proper tree planting steps 8. tree care (after planting)
Supplemental information about the tree: e.g. why the species was chosen, growth measurements, uses for that species, etc., may be included in an attached notebook, poster, etc.  to enhance educational value. Supplemental information will be an important factor in judging but should not exceed three printed pages of text. Cite sources of information.

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION - Division 342
FISHING      AMPHIBIANS 
BIRD BEHAVIOR    TAXIDERMY
Premium Category 6
Conservation, wildlife and shooting sports gives 4-H members an opportunity to share their knowledge and field experience about conservation, wildlife, and shooting sports. When creating an exhibit make sure to take close account of the rules while taking into account the different laws that surround those areas. 4-H member must show evidence of your personal field experiences, study, or observations that relate to their exhibit. This helps judges understand what the 4-H member did and learned in the process that led to the exhibit. Show proper credit by listing the sources of plans or other supporting information used in exhibits. The word “animal” or “wildlife” includes wild fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, or mammals. Please make sure you are following all wildlife laws. Domestic animal (i.e. domestic livestock or house pets) and insect exhibits are not appropriate for this area. 4-H members must comply with current state and federal laws. It is illegal to possess threatened, or endangered, or protected wildlife, or the feathers, nests, or eggs of non-game birds. These items cannot be part of an exhibit. Game birds and game animals taken legally during an open season may be used. NO FIREARMS, ITEMS WITH A BLADE (broad heads, knives, saws, etc.) or related items of any other kind, may be exhibited.  This applies to actual items, replicated items and item parts. Photos are a suitable substitution for actual items. The 4-H member’s name, age, and county must be on the back or bottom of all displays. Related project material include: Exploring Your Environment series, 4-H Shooting Sports, Amphibians, Bird Behavior (EC 5-93-81), Fishing for Adventure, Wildlife Conservation (4-H 125), Geology, and Outdoor Adventure. Other resources include: Outdoor Skills: Learning Science in the Outdoors series (Science Signature Outcome Program) outdoornebraska.gov/afterschool/ and www.whep.org
Board and Poster Exhibits- Mount all board exhibits on 1/4” plywood, masonite, or similar panel no larger than 24” high by 24” wide. Poster exhibits should be on regular poster sheets, no larger than 22” x 28” but 14” x 22” is recommended.   
Classes D340001 - D340004 are board or poster exhibits. Display may show any aspect of wildlife, wildlife habitat, or related conservation. Ex: Life history or other facts about one type of wildlife; how to manage wildlife on a farm or in town; managing habitat for one kind of wildlife; life 
requirements for one kind of wildlife during one season or through the year; wildlife behavior and habitats. Refer to project manuals for ideas.
Exhibits other than poster/display board should not exceed 48 inches x 48 inches and be able to be moved by two people. Large exhibits (larger than listed above) must be suited and prepared for outdoor exhibition at the Nebraska State Fair. If large exhibits are not suited for outdoor exhibition, youth have the option to create a poster or another suitable substitute for the exhibit, instead of exhibiting the project itself.
Wildlife and How They Live
D340001   Mammal Display- Choose one mammal from the wild and share on your display about the mammal. Examples include life history, behavior, habitat or other interesting facts.
D340002   Bird Display- Choose one bird from the wild and share on your display about the bird.  Examples include life history, behavior, habitat or other interesting facts.
D340003   Fish Display- Choose one fish from the wild and share on your display about the fish.  Examples include life history, behavior, habitat or other interesting facts.
D340004   Reptile or Amphibian Display- Choose one reptile or amphibian and share on your display about the reptile or amphibian. Examples include life history, behavior, habitat or other interesting facts
D340005   Wildlife Connections- Board or poster exhibit. Purpose of display is to show interconnections and related aspects among animals,  plants, and other habitat components. All displays should show two or more interactions (connections) that occur between/among animals or between animals and their habitat. Displays might show how animals interact with other animals, with people, or with their habitat. Ex: 1) Food chain display. Use pictures, drawings, or other items to illustrate the source of food energy and where it goes who eats whom or what. Use arrows to show the direction of the energy (food) flow. 2)Show the role of predators, scavengers, insect eaters, or others in nature. 3) Show how wildlife numbers (populations) change through the year. 4) Show predation, competition, or other behavioral interactions of wildlife. 5) Choose one kind of wildlife and make observations through a season or year, keep notes of interactions, then make a display of what you saw. 
D340006   Wildlife Tracks- Board or diorama-type box exhibit. Make a display of animal tracks using casting plaster. There are three options, Include a brief description of your experiences in making the tracks so the judges better understand what you did and learned. Positive casts (impressions as they would be in nature) are preferred, but not required. Option 1) Show plaster tracks of five or more kinds of wildlife along with a picture or illustration of each kind of animal. Option 2) Show two or more plaster tracks of one specific kind of wildlife and include a picture or illustration of the animal, what the animal may eat, and what may eat the animal. Option 3) Show two tracks and include the animal’s habitat needs including preferred food, shelter, water, and space, in addition to picture or illustration of the animal.
D340007   Wildlife Knowledge Check- Use electrical circuits, pictures, or other methods of teaching wildlife identification or other wildlife conservation or shooting sports related knowledge. Maximum size 24”x24”. 
D340008   Wildlife Diorama- Exhibit must be no larger than 24”x24”.
Exhibit should show a grassland, prairie, agricultural, woodland, riparian (stream or river corridor), wetland, and/or other area with wildlife habitat. Show an area interspersed with several habitats such as windbreaks, farm fields, woods, waste areas, ditches, and pastures for edge-adapted species such as white-tailed deer, Northern bobwhite, ring-necked pheasants, mourning doves, cottontail rabbits, fox squirrels, Northern cardinals, or blue jays. Label the habitats displayed and show at least five kinds of wildlife in their proper habitats. Remember to include supporting information about the wildlife and habitat that is on display.
D340009   Wildlife Essay- Learn how to share educational information by writing. Choose a conservation or wildlife topic that interests you and write an essay about it. Ex: write about a particular species of wildlife that you have observed or about the values of wildlife on a farm, in town, in a backyard, at a backyard feeder, or at other places. You might write about ethics, proper behavior in the outdoors, hunting, fishing. The essay is between 100 and 1000 words long and typed, double spaced on paper. You might use books, magazines, or personal interviews as resources, but you must give credit to all sources by listing them.
D340010   Wildlife Values Scrapbook- A scrapbook about the various values of wildlife. This would include aesthetic, scientific, commercial,     game, genetic, and/or ecological topics.
D340011   Wildlife Arts- Purpose of this class is to allow artistic exhibits that contain educational information about conservation and wildlife. Ex: paintings, photographs, wood carvings, painted duck decoys, or songs or poems written by 4-H member. Entries must be appropriate for fair display and no larger than 24”x24”. Ex: paintings or photographs should be displayed in notebook format or mounted on a sturdy display panel. All entries must include a title and brief explanation of the purpose or message (what exhibit is meant to show).
*D340012  Exhibit of Choice- Purpose of this class is to allow original or creative exhibits that contain educational information about conservation and wildlife. The exhibitor determines what this exhibit will be. Entries must be appropriate for fair display and no larger than 24”x24”. Include title and brief explanation of purpose or message (what the exhibit is meant to show or do). For thought starters, think about: computer programs written by the exhibitor, observations and records of a wildlife food plot; exhibit of factual information from study, interviews, and/or observations related to conservation and wildlife (exhibit on landowner/hunter relations, endangered species, etc.)
Outdoor Adventures - Level 2
Display posters must be made of material (foam board or poster board) and measure no larger than 22”x 28”. Poster material should be sturdy enough to hold display items. Display exhibits other than posters to be no larger than 18” x 24”. Journal/Binder exhibits measure no larger than 16” x 16”. Consider neatness and creativity. 
D341001  Poster- Create a poster display no larger than 22” x 28”. Topics may include, but not limited to one or more of the following; how to pitch a tent, knot tying, cooking over a campfire, how to start a campfire, wildlife and plants identified while camping, how to set up emergency shelter, dealing with weather, collection of photos from     camping trips, “Leave No Trace” and how that was followed while camping, plan a camping trip, camping essentials, environmental issues/protecting natural resources, park or trail clean up, sanitation/hygiene while outdoors or use of GPS. 
D341002 - Journal/Binder - Written report of virtual or actual camping/hiking trips with observations OR field journal (notes of actual experiences, sights, sounds, smells, etc.), OR camping or hiking trip diary. Explain growth in project, leading the hikes, planning the camping trip, now being able to identify the wildlife and nature around you and how identified (sight/sound/shape/smell/color). Feathers/leaf/flower pressings must be securely attached, if included. Photos of drawing of observations encouraged. Exhibits measure no larger than 16” X 16”.
D341003 - Camping/Hiking Safety - Must include explanation of use of item and why selected/purpose, how it fits hiking/camping needs. May     include, but are not limited to, one of the following: travel sized poisonous plants guide, camping first aid kit, weather/water safety     or hand hygiene kit. Exhibits measure no larger than 18” X 24”.
D341004 - Digital Media - Use digital media to show video/slideshow/presentation of setting up a tent (include why site is chosen) or protecting natural resources or environmental issues or computer video camping/hiking game. Submit a USB drive or DVD inside a report cover or notebook. If using a slideshow, include printed slides inside report cover or notebook.
D341005 - Other Camping Items - Must include what inspired the creation of the item, and its purpose. May include, but are not limited to one of the following; nature art, nature haiku poem, spider web sketches or knot display. Exhibits measure no larger than 18” X 24”.
Outdoor Adventures Level 3
Display posters must be made of material (foam board or poster board) and measure no larger than 22”x 28”. Poster material should be sturdy enough to hold display items. Display exhibits other than posters to be no larger than 18” x 24”. Journal/Binder exhibits measure no larger than 16” x 16”. Consider neatness and creativity. 
D341006 Poster - Create a poster display, no larger than 22” X 28”. Topics may include but not limited to one of the following; Topographic map, backpacking trip plan, camp layout, plan an expedition (can be dreamed or lived), collection of photos from your expedition, trails hiked, cost comparison of rental vs purchase or using GPS/compass.
D341007 - Journal/Binder - Written report of actual, virtual or imagined expeditions/camping/hiking, OR field journal (notes of actual experiences, sights, sounds, smells, etc.). Explain growth in project, challenges in leading a group, teaching others about wildlife and nature identification and “Leave No Trace.” Exhibits measure no larger than 16” X 16”.
D341008 - Expedition Safety - Must include an explanation of use of items, why selected/purpose of item, how it meets hiking/camping/expedition needs. May include, but are not limited to; travel sized edible plants, creepy crawly guide, tent repair kit, travel first aid kit or weather/water safety. Exhibits measure no larger than 18” X 24”
D341009 - Digital Media - Use digital media to show video/slideshow/presentation of one of the following, but not limited to; building a non-tent shelter (include why needed), packing your backpack/equipment and getting it onto you, teaching others about environmental issues or a computer video backpacking expedition game. Submit a USB drive or DVD inside a report cover or notebook. If using a slideshow, include printed slides inside report cover or notebook.
D341010 - Other Expedition Items - Must include what inspired the creation of the item, and the purpose of the item. May include, but are not limited to; nature art, nature cinquain poem, backpacking food recipes, hiking/expedition conditioning plan, charcoal etching, dehydrated meal or snack (at least 1 cup displayed in a re-sealable plastic bag with ingredients, instructions, and nutritional facts included). Exhibits measure no larger than 18” X 24” Wildlife Habitat
D342001   Houses- Make a house for wildlife. Ex: Bird houses (bluebird, purple martin, wood duck, kestrel, barn owl, etc.), or bat house. No insect houses. Make the house functional so that dimensions, hole size, etc. are appropriate to fit the intended species’ needs. Include the following information: 1) the kinds of animal(s) for which the house is intended, 2) where and how the house should be located for best use, 3) any seasonal maintenance needed, 4) any evidence of your personal observations or experiences. Check NebGuide on bird houses and shelves.
D342002   Feeders/Waterers- Make a bird bath or feeder. Ex: seed, suet, or nectar feeders. Squirrel feeder is acceptable; no insect feeders. Include the following information: 1) the kinds of animal(s) for which the water/feeder is intended, 2) where are how the water/feeder should be located for best use, 3) any seasonal maintenance needed, and 4) any evidence of your personal observations or experiences. Check NebGuide on feeding birds.
D342003   Wildlife Habitat Design- Board or poster exhibit. Choose a backyard, acreage, or farm, and design a habitat plan to meet the food, water, shelter, and space needs of at least three kinds of animals you would like to attract. Draw an outline of the area and show what plants or other habitat will be provided. Indicate how the various parts of your plan provide the desired habitat needs. You might include an aerial photo of the area if you have one. 
Harvesting Equipment
D343001  Fish Harvesting Equipment- Board exhibit. Display of equipment used in fish harvesting. Ex: fishing knots, lures, hooks (with corks over hook ends to improve safety). Label all items displayed. Include in your exhibit the following information: 1) purpose of each item, 2) when or where it is used, 3) any personal experiences you’ve had with the item/s.
D343002  Building a Fishing Rod- Rod building kits with instructions are available for this purpose. Fishing rod educational exhibit may not exceed 96” length. Exhibit must be mounted on a board. Include with exhibit the following items: 1) Explanation of cost of materials/components, where materials/ components were purchased, how made, and number of hours required for construction. 2) Label all parts. Necessary components which must be included are grip, line guides (based on manufacturer’s specifications), guide wraps, and hook keeper. Reel seat needs to be aligned with guides, and guides aligned accurately down rod. Guide wraps of size A to D, nylon or silk thread. Exhibit will be judged on: workmanship, labeling of parts, information, and neatness
D343003  Casting Target- Make a casting target for exhibit and use. Target must be under 48” x 48”. The bulls-eyes must be 2 feet, outer band must be 1 foot in diameter and can have up to 3 rings. The exhibit must be easy to store, durable, and weather resistant. Include the purpose and rules of using your casting target. 
D343004  Wildlife Harvesting Equipment- Board exhibit. Display equipment used in harvesting wildlife. Ex: expanded ammunition casing (no live ammunition permitted), steel traps, hide stretchers, fleshers, etc. For displays of shotguns, rifles, or bows, use drawings or pictures. Label all items displayed: 1) purpose of each item, 2) when or where it is used, 3) any personal experiences with the item/s.
D343005  Inventing Wildlife/Fish Harvesting Equipment, Aid or Accessory Use engineering principles to invent or adapt equipment that helps you harvest fish or wildlife. Ex: wildlife calls, adapted fishing pole for shallow water, a blind, decoys, etc. Share your drawing (or adapted plans), how the equipment works, how you tested it, and the results of testing your prototype and any adjustments you made.
Taxidermy
D346001  Tanned Hides- Any legal fish, bird, or other wild animal properly 
processed by the member. No requirement as to size or mounting. Include the following information: 1) the animal’s name, 2) information about the 4-H member’s personal field experiences, study, or observations that relate to the exhibit.
D346002  Taxidermy- Any legal fish, bird, or other wild animal properly processed by the member. No requirement as to size or mounting. Include the following information: - the animal’s name - information about the exhibitor’s personal field experiences, study, or observations that relate to the exhibit.
Other Natural Resources
D361001  Design Your Own Exhibit in Natural Resources, Conservation, or Ecology- Educational exhibit relating to natural resources, conservation, geology, or ecology - ONLY! Entires must be appropriate for fair display and no larger than 24”x24”. Entries must include a title and be clear (a brief explanation or other method) about the intended purpose or message - what the exhibit is meant to show. Think about accuracy, creativity, educational value for viewers, and evidence of 4-H member’s personal experiences and learning.

SHOOTING SPORTS - Division 347
Exhibit should be self-explanatory and educational to viewers. Exhibit must have a 5”x8” note card securely attached describing: 1) The project and how it applies to Shooting Sports; 2) Experience gained in making the project; 3) How the project will be used. Information should be neatly hand-written or typed on one side only of the card. No firearms may be exhibited, nor live ammunition; however information can be shared through pictures. All sharp items (knives, broadheads, etc.) must be enclosed in display case and displayed so the judges can open them to examine items. Items must be secured in the case.

Premium Category 5
D347001  Shooting Aid or Accessory- Item which helps the shooter/hunter better perform their sport. Ex: rifle sling, kneeling roll, arm guard, shotgun vet, target boxes, shooting stick, etc. Include design, or plans you adapted, what the item is and uses.
D347002  Storage Case- Item with the purpose to safely hold a firearm, bow, ammunition, and/or arrows. Ex: soft sided shotgun case, quivers,     firearm safe. Include design, or plans you adapted. Explain how the storage case is used.
D347003  Practice Game or Activity- Invent or adapt an activity to practice or teach a project skill. Include pictures of youth playing the game, testimonials of 4-H members who played the game, what skill is being worked on, and directions for game. Explain how you came up with the game or adapted it to fit the needs of your group members.
D347004  Science, Engineering, Technology Advancements of Shooting Sports Essay or Display- Choose a specific area of shooting sports and share how it has advanced. Include a timeline and photos or illustrations. Keep topic narrow and manageable. Essay limited to 1000 words, on 8 1/2” x 11” paper.
D347005  Healthy Lifestyles Plan- Include a shooter’s diet and exercise plan, and how the 4-H member will benefit or improve from following the plan. Ideally, 4-H member would follow the plan and include some journal entries about adaptations or improvements made while following the plan.
D347006  Citizenship/Leadership Project- Share a display on a citizenship or leadership project the 4-H member took on individually or with a group to improve some aspect related to 4-H Shooting Sports. Ex: range development, conservation planting to attract wildlife, a camp, 4-H recruitment event. Include who benefited from the project, what the 4-H member’s role was, and results.
D347007  Career Development/College Essay, Interview or Display- Research opportunities for careers related to this area or opportunities for college majors or college activities to help discover using project skills beyond a person’s 4-H career. Essay limited to 1000 words, on 8 1/2” x 11” paper. Interview must include a picture of interviewee in their work setting, questions asked, and a transcript of answers. 
D347008  Community Vitality Display- Explore the difference shooting sports and hunting make in keeping Nebraska vibrant, especially in rural areas. Present facts and research in an interesting way for the public to learn from.
D347009  Ag Literacy - Value Added Agriculture Interview or Research Project- Explore how traditional ag producers are adding value to their production agriculture operation through conservation efforts, hunting, raising pheasants, shooting sports related tourism, etc. Present findings in an interesting way for the public to learn from.

Premium Category 7
*D347010  Exhibit of Choice - Educational notebook, display, poster (14”x22”), collection of materials that relate to project. Include 8 1/2” x 11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning.

ENTOMOLOGY - Division 800
Creepy Crawlies U-1         
What’s Bugging You U-2
Dragons, House & Other Flies U-3
Insectigator
Premium Category 7
*H800010   Insect or Butterfly Display - Collection 10-20 insects; follow directions for mounting and labeling.
*H800011   Insect or Butterfly Photo - 5” x 7” photo on 8” x 10” posterboard
*H800012   Build a Bug/ Butterfly 
*H800013   Build a Bug Barn, Butterfly and/or Butterfly House
*H800014   Life Cycle Exhibit of Choice
*H800015   Single Pinned insect with informational display
*H800016   Pollinator Garden - Container garden or Poster with photos of outdoor garden with pollinator friendly plants.
*H800017   Exhibit of Choice- Poster- 14” x 22”, essay, poem, writing, educational notebook, display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 8 1/2”x11” page  describing exhibit and summary of learning.
Premium Category 4
Specimens should be mounted properly and labeled with location and date of collection, name of collector, and order name. Follow mounting and labeling instructions in the old edition of the Nebraska 4-H Entomology Manual. (Online PDF file: http://4h.unl.edu/web/4hcurriculum/entomology) Boxes are preferred to be 12” high X 18” wide, and landscape orientation, so they fit in display racks. Purchase of commercially-made boxes is allowed. All specimens are to be pinned and labeled by the exhibitor. No purchased specimens allowed. No projects over 50 pounds. 
H800001   Entomology Display (First Year)- Collection to consist of 25 or more different kinds (species) of insects representing at least 6 orders. Limit 1 box.
H800002   Entomology Display (Second Year)- Collection to consist of a minimum of 50 kinds (species) of insects representing at least 8 orders. Replace damaged or poorly mounted specimens. At least 25 species must be present from after July 1 of the previous year. Limit 2 boxes.
H800003   Entomology Display (Third or more years)- Collection to consist of a minimum of 75 kinds (species) of insects representing at least 10 orders. Replace damaged or poorly mounted specimens. At least 25 species must be present from after July 1 of previous year. Limit 3 boxes.
H800004   Special Interest or Advanced Insect Display - Educational display developed according to personal interests and/or advanced identification capability.  This also is an opportunity to highlight favorite insects in a creative arrangement. Insects should conform to pinning and mounting standards and be protected in an insect box. Each specialty display should include names of the insects, interesting information about them, and why the display was made. Advanced identification collections should have insects grouped with labels that correspond with identification level (Ex: family, genus, species). A specialty collection may consist of insects by taxonomic group (Ex: butterflies, grasshoppers, dragonflies, scarab beetles) or by host, subject, or habitat (Ex: insect pests of corn, aquatic insects, insect mimicry, insect galls, insects from goldenrod, insect pollinators, etc.)
H800005   Insect Habitat- Consisting of any hand-crafted objects, made of natural or artificial materials, placed outdoors, which promote or conserve insects in the environment. Insects may include bee pollinators, butterflies, beneficial insects, etc. One-page report must accompany the exhibit. Report should include placement, target insect, why materials were chosen, functional design, and indicators of success. See the following resources for reports: Nebraska Extension NebGuide: Creating a Solitary Bee Hotel (G2256); University of Minnesota: Wild Bees and Building Wild Bee Houses; National Wildlife Federation: How to Provide Water in Monarch Gardens
H800006   Macrophotography - Subject should be insects, spiders or other anthropods, or any nests, webs or constructions they make. Exhibit prints should be 8 1/2” x 11”, and mounted on rigid, black 11”x14” poster or mat board, either vertical or  horizontal. No frames or mat board allowed.  Caption of a few sentences should explain the subject, and be printed on white paper and glued below the print on the posterboard.
H800007   Insect Poster/Display Exhibit – Exhibit a poster or three-dimensional display, with artistic creativity.  Poster (maximum 22” x 28”) should be instructional and attractive and can have pictures, drawings, charts or graphs.  Posters and displays may show any aspect of insect life, habitat or related conservation or management.  Ex: life history and other facts about an insect; insect anatomy; how to manage insects in a farm, home, lawn or garden setting; experiences rearing one kind of insect; survey of an important insect; insect behavior (Ex: nesting, finding food, mobility, defenses, etc); habitats (Ex: forests, grasslands, wetlands, rivers or lakes) and what insects are found there, etc. Three-dimensional displays, such as dioramas, sculptures, models or decorative boxes should have a page of explanatory information and fit within a 22” x 28” area.
H800008   Report or Journal – Report may be informational, that is, an original article about  a favorite insect, a history of insect outbreaks, diseases caused by insects, insects as food, etc. Or it may be a research report about an investigation or experiment done in a scientific manner. Include a basic instruction of the insect studied, methods used, observations, and results of the project. Tables, graphs and images are helpful. A journal is an observational study over a period of time with personal impressions. It may cover watching changes in kinds of butterflies over the summer, rearing a specific insect from egg to adult, managing a beehive, observations of insects in a specific habitat, accounts of insect behavior in a forest or flower garden, etc.

BEEKEEPING - Division 801
Premium Category 7
Sponsor: Tom Person- Champion Beekeeping
*H801025  Honey Product Made by 4-H Member
*H801026  Wax Product Made by 4-H Member
*H801027  Beekeeping Plan   Create a plan that outlines future beekeeping operations. Include a list of supplies and cost estimate to get started. Include what products will be made and what you plan to do with it. Describe how you will manage your beehives including what you will use for the hives, where they will be, pest management, etc. Exhibit can be a poster (14” X 22”) or notebook (8 1/2” X 11”).
*H801028  Exhibit of Choice, Essay, Poster 14”x22”, Educational notebook, display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 8 1/2” x 11” sheet describing exhibit and summary of learning.

Science, Engineering & Technology

SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, & TECHNOLOGY THEME EXHIBITS - Division 848
Cream of the Crop
Non-Competitive
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Engineering project.
*H848001  Aerospace Theme Exhibit
*H848002  Lego/K’Nex Exhibit
*H848003  Outdoor Item 
*H848004  Theme Computer Exhibit
*H848005  Electricity
*H848006  Indoor Home Accessory- Woodworking
*H848007  Item made from Pallet or Barnwood
*H848008  Woodworking
*H848009  Hydraulic Claw
*H848010  Exhibit of Choice

ENGINEERING PROJECT INFORMATION
See “General Rules” on page 19 for project information. 
4-H All-Star Champion and Reserve Champion Awards - Age Divisions (4-H age January 1, 2026): Sr. Division- 14 and older; Int. Division- 11-13; Jr. Division- 8-10.
Nebraska State Fair: Classes are eligible for State Fair competition unless marked with an * which denotes COUNTY CLASS ONLY. All static exhibits selected for the State Fair must receive a purple ribbon at county fair judging. Label each exhibit with exhibitor’s name on back or bottom of exhibit. Label all pieces of an exhibit. Exhibits released Sunday, July 26. No premium money given if exhibits are removed before deadline. Remaining exhibits should be picked up Monday, July 27.
Display Boards: Several classes require a display board which should be a height of 24 inches and not to exceed 1/4-inch thickness. A height of 24 7/8 inches is acceptable to allow for the saw kerf (width) if two 24 inch boards are cut from one end of a 4-foot by 8-foot sheet of plywood. Nothing should be mounted within 3/4 inch of the top or bottom of the board. Fabricated board such as plywood, composition board, or particle-type lumber may be used for demonstration displays. Demonstration boards should be sanded and finished to improve their appearance. The finish on a demonstration board will be judged as a woodworking exhibit. Demonstration boards should include an overall title for the display, plus other necessary labeling. 
Reports: should be written using the scientific method whenever possible (background, the question or hypothesis, what you plan to do and what you did, method used and observations, results: what you learned). All reports should be computer generated and enclosed in a clear plastic cover. The reports should be attached securely to the display.

HORSE & LIVESTOCK PROJECT EXHIBITS
Division 839
Premium Category 7
Open to 4-H member enrolled in livestock, horse or small animal project/s.
*H839010   Coat, Covering, Blanket, Bed, or Textile Accessory Made by 4-H Member
*H839011   Rope Exhibit- Display minimum of 5 knots on sturdy base; label knots
*H839012   Exhibit of Choice- Educational notebook, display, poster (14”x22”), collection of materials that relate to project. Include 8 1/2” x 11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning.

VETERINARY SCIENCE - Division 840
Normal Animal Unit 1
Animal Disease Unit 2
Animal Health & Its’ Relationship to our World Unit 3
Purpose of the exhibit is to inform the public regarding a common health problem of animals, a veterinary science principle, or public health/zoonotic diseases. Do not confuse veterinary science display topics with animal husbandry, history or production topics. Exhibit may be a poster, notebook, or a display.
If photographs are a part of the exhibit, remember that these are viewed by the public. Make sure photographs are in good taste and will not be offensive to viewer. Graphic photos of excessive bleeding, trauma or painful procedures are not appropriate. For exhibits related to veterinary surgical procedures, aseptic techniques need to be shown. Ex: use of drapes, use of sterile procedures, wearing gloves, and other appropriate veterinary medical practices.
First-Aid Kits: Because of public safety concerns and risk of theft of contents, animal first aid kits containing any drugs or medications will be immediately disqualified and not displayed. First Aid Kits wishing to include medication information should instead utilize written descriptions, photographs, drawings, computer generated print-outs or empty packaging of pharmaceuticals.
Poster exhibit presents the viewer with a design that is simple and direct, with accurate, complete information. Maximum size 22”x28”, either vertical or horizontal.
Display may include, but is not limited to, 3-dimensional exhibit, a scale model, the actual product (ex: skeleton, teeth, samples of leather, fur or dried skin damaged by disease or parasites) or a notebook. Display may be mounted on poster board, not to exceed 22”x28” or on 1/4” plywood or equivalent that does not exceed 24” high or 32” wide, or in a 3-ring binder or another bound notebook format.
Appropriate Veterinary Science topics: Maintaining health, Specific disease information, Photographic display of normal and abnormal characteristics of animals, Animal health or safety, Public health or safety, Proper animal management to ensure food safety and quality, Efficient and safe livestock working facilities, or a topic of the exhibitors choosing related to veterinary medicine or veterinary science. *Remember, since these are science displays, all references and information needs to be properly cited. Proper sources include but are not limited to: Professional journals and publications, professional AVMA accredited websites, interviews with Veterinarians and excerpts from Veterinary Educational Literature. Remember, since these are science displays, all reference and information needs to be properly cited. Plagiarism will result in a disqualification. Please study your topic and present the information to your audience in your own words.
State Fair exhibit may represent material from any of the Veterinary Science projects including entry level exhibits from Unit 1.

Premium Category 7
H840001    Veterinary Science Large Animal Poster, Notebook, or Display
H840002    Veterinary Science Small Animal/Pet Poster, Notebook, or Display
*H840003   Exhibit of Choice

ROCKETS & DRONES - Division 850
Premium Category 6
ROCKET PROJECT INFORMATION
This category gives 4-Her’s a chance to display the rockets and drones they have created. Through participation in this category 4-Her’s will show judges what they learned about and how they adapted their exhibit throughout this project. Involvement in SET Aerospace gives participants a first-hand experience in modern technology. For help getting started with this project contact your county 4-H office.
The name and county of each exhibitor should appear separately on the back of each board, poster or article and on the front cover of the notebooks so owner of the exhibit may be identified if the entry tag is separated from the exhibit.
Complete factory assembled rockets will not be accepted. Rocket should be supported substantially to protect rocket from breakage. Rockets are to be mounted vertically on a base that has dimensions equal or less than 12”x12” and the base should be 3/4” thick. No metal bases. If the rocket fins extend beyond the edges of the required base, then construct a base that is large enough to protect the fins. The rockets must be mounted vertically. Do not attach sideboards or backdrops to display. In addition, a used engine or length of dowel pin is to be glued and/or screwed into the board and extended up into the rockets engine mount to give added stability. Rockets must be equipped as prepared for launching, with wadding and parachute or other recovery system. Those with live engines, wrong base size or sideboards will be disqualified.
Reports should be clearly written or typed and enclosed in a clear, plastic cover. Report must include: 1) rocket specification (include original or photo of manufacture packaging, stating rocket skill level), 2) a flight record for each launching (weather, distance, flight height), 3) number of launchings, 4) flight pictures, 5) safety (How did you choose your launch site? Document safe launch, preparations, and precautions), 6) objectives learned and 7) conclusions. Attach report securely to the display. The flight record should describe engine used, what rocket did in flight and recovery success. Points will not be deducted for launching, flight or recovery failures described. This includes any damage that may show on the rocket. Judging based on display appearance, rocket appearance, workmanship, design  or capabilities for flight, number of times launched, and report. Three launches are required to earn the maximum launch points on the score sheet.
For self-designed rockets only, please include digital recorded copy of one flight. In the documentation please include a description of stability testing before the rocket was flown. 4-H Rocket project levels are not intended to correspond to National Association of Rocketry model rocket difficulty ratings or levels.
High power rockets (HPR) is similar to model rocketry with differences that include the propulsion power and weight increase of the model. They use motors in ranges over “G” power and/or weigh more than laws and regulations allow for unrestricted model rockets.  These rockets may not be exhibited. 
Posters can be any size up to 28” x 22” when ready for display. Example: trifold poster boards are not 28”x22” when fully open for display. 
NOTE:  Skill level is determined by the level listed on the manufacturers packaging, not determined by number of years in project. 
Unit 1
*H849012  Beginning Skill Level Rocket with wooden fins and cardboard body painted by hand or air brush
*H849013  Space Station- Draw a design of a Space Station of the future. Describe how scientists would use the station. Notebook or poster (14”x22”).
*H849014  Exhibit of Choice- Poster - 14”x22”,  educational notebook, display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 8 1/2”x11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning. Max size: 28”x22”
Unit 2 - 4
H850001   Rocket- Any Skill Level (Unit 2-4) Rocket with wooden fins and cardboard body tube painted by hand or air brush.
H850002   Aerospace Display- Poster or display board that displays or exemplifies one of the principles learned in the Lift Off Project. Ex: display of rocket parts and purpose, explains the parts of a NASA rocket or shuttle, interview of someone in the aerospace field, or kite terminology. Include notebook, containing terminology (definition), and what was learned. Maximum size: 28” x 22”.
H850003   Any Skill Level Rocket (Unit 2-4) with wooden fins and cardboard body tube painted using commercial application. Ex: commercial spray paint.
H850004   Rocket - Any self-designed rocket with wooden fins and cardboard body tube. 
Drones
H850005      Drone Poster- Exhibit must be designed to educate yourself and others on one or more of the following topics: drone technologies, uses of drones, the different types of drones, types of training needed to operate drones, and the laws and regulations users must follow. Maximum size: 28”x22”.
H850006      Drone Video - Exhibit must demonstrate how the drone interacts with the outside world. Ex. field scouting, surveying damage from natural disasters, drones used in commercial applications and settings, and drones used for structural engineering. Video should not exceed 5 minutes. Videos should be saved on a USB drive labeled with 4-Her’s name.

MODEL BUILDING - Division 851
Premium Category 6
Maximum of two (2) exhibits per exhibitor per class. Model must be 
displayed on a fl at sturdy base, maximum size 12”x12”. Model should be attached to the base, but do not glue wheels to base. Exhibitor painted models must have a minimum of the interior, engine, and chassis painted.
Model from a kit
*H851001     Exhibitor Painted
*H851002    Pre-Painted
*H851003     Other - Ex: wood, clay, plaster, plastic. Include plans or description.

LEGO & K’NEX MODEL BUILDING - Division 852
4-H GIANT LEGO SPECIAL
Non-Competitive
Open to 4-H member enrolled in project. Funding provided by Beatrice Walmart Super-Center #2784
*H852035  Giant Lego Kit - One of the most popular and best selling toys of all time around the world is Lego, dating back over 80 years. Participants will pick up Lego kit at Extension Office and assemble according to directions. Must exhibit on substantial base of appropriate size (some bases provided). Leave assembled kit at the 4-H Building Sunday evening of the fair. Staff will unassembled kits for 2026 participants.
*H852036  Purchased Kit
Premium Category 7
*H852037  Original Design- No kit/s included in exhibit.
*H852038  Diorama- Include 1 or more items (kit or original design) in setting/scene, maximum 18”x24” base. Ex: cardboard box with sides/top partially cut down for display.
*H852039  Item Made with Lego or K’Nex - Ex: lamp, frame, mirror, clock, wall art, vase, etc.
*H852040  3-D Lego or K’Nex Exhibit
*H852041   Large Lego or K’Nex Display/Exhibit - Exhibit photos in poster, notebook or cover/binder. Do not bring large display/exhibit.

ROBOTICS - Division 861
Premium Category 6
This category involves the many different aspects of Robotics. Participants will learn more about how robots are designed and developed as well as the mechanical and electronic elements of robots. Involvements in SET Robotics gives participants a first-hand experience in modern technology.
The name and county of each exhibitor should appear separately on the back of each board, poster or article and on the front cover of the notebooks so the owner of the exhibit may be identified if the entry tag is separated from the exhibit. Reports should be written using the scientific method whenever possible (Background, the Question or hypothesis, what you plan to do and what you did, Method used and observations, Results: what you learned.  All reports should be computer generated and enclosed in a clear plastic cover. The reports should be attached securely to the display. Posters can be any size up to 28” by 22” when ready for display. Example: trifold poster boards are not 28” by 22” when fully open for display.
Individual or Team entries may be entered. Team entries must be marked “team” with a minimum 50% of team members enrolled in 4-H. All 4-H members must complete and attach entry tag to the materials. A supplemental page documenting the individual contributions to the project should be included. Entry will be judged as a team, with all team members receiving the same ribbon placing.
Creating a video of your robot in action would be helpful for the judges but is not mandatory. Present as a CD Rom with your robot entry. Videos should be uploaded to a video streaming application and exhibitors should provide a hard copy QR code for viewing.
H861001  Robotics Poster- Poster, 28”x22”, communicating a robotics theme such as “Robot or Not”, “Pseudocode”, “Real World Robots”, “Career in Robots” or “Autonomous Robotics”, “Precision Agriculture” or a robotic topic of interest to 4-H member.
H861002  Robotics Notebook- Explore a robotics topic in-depth and present your findings in a notebook. Documentation should include any designs, research, notes, pseudocode, data tables or other evidence of the 4-H member’s learning experience. The notebook should contain at least three pages. Topics could include a programming challenge, programming skill, calibration, sensor exploration, or any of the topics suggested in Class 1.
H861004  Robotics/Career Interview- Interview someone working in the 
field of robotics and research the career. Interviews can either be written or in a multimedia format such as a short video uploaded to a cloud sharing service, 3-5 minutes in length. Include a QR code with your project to allow for judging access. Written reports should be in a notebook, 3-5 pages, double spaced, 12 point font, 1” margins. 
H861005  Robotics Sensor Notebook- Write pseudo code which includes at least three sensor activity. Include the code written and explain the code function. Include a QR code with your code to allow judging access. There must be a hard copy QR code.
H861007  Kit Labeled Robot (cannot be programmed) and Notebook- This class is intended for explorations of robotic components such as arms or vehicles OR educational kits marketed as robots that do not have the ability to be programmed to “sense, plan and act.” The exhibit should include a notebook with the robot the youth has constructed. Included in the notebook should be (1) a description of what the robot does, (2) pictures of programs the robot can perform, (3) why they chose to build this particular form, and (4) how they problem solved any issues they might have had during building and programming. A picture story of assembly is recommended. If robot is more than 15” inches wide and 20” inches tall they may not be displayed in locked cases.
H861008 3D Printed Robotics Parts - This class is intended for youth to create parts through 3D printing, that help create their robot or aid the robot in completing a coded function. Project should include notebook describing the process used to create the project, describe the success of your designed piece (did it work), intended use of the product and the modifications made to the item.
*H861009   Robotics Exhibit of Choice- Poster - 14”x22”,  educational notebook, display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 81/2”x11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning. Max size: 28”x22”

COMPUTERS - Division 860
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Unit 1
*H859013  4-H Promotional Flyer- Create an 8 1/2”x11” page using a commercial software graphics package. Color or black and white. Can be a whole page or folder flyer.
*H859014  Color or Black & White Poster- Minimum 8 1/2”x11” page mounted on poster board (14”x22”) using a commercial graphics software package.
*H859015  Creative Computer Design- Six different examples of original design. Ex: address list, recipes, letterhead, greeting cards, graphics, posters, etc., in clear plastic cover.
*H859016  Exhibit of Choice- Poster - 14”x22”,  educational notebook, display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 81/2”x11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning. Max size: 28”x22” This category gives 4-Her’s a chance to display their knowledge of computers. Through participation in this category 4-Her’s will develop presentations that show judges their knowledge in the different aspects of computer science. Involvement in SET Computers gives participants a first-hand experience in modern technology.
The name and county of each exhibitor should appear separately on the back of each board, poster or article and on the front cover of the notebooks so owner of the exhibit may be identified if the entry tag is separated from the exhibit. Demonstration boards should include an overall title for the display, plus other necessary labeling. 
Reports should be written using the scientific method whenever possible (Background, the Question or hypothesis, what you plan to do and what you did, Method used and observations, Results: what you learned.)  
All reports should be computer generated and enclosed in a clear plastic cover. The reports should be attached securely to the display. Reports should be written using the scientific method whenever possible (Background, the Question or hypothesis, what you plan to do and what you did, Method used and observations. Results: What you learned. All reports should be computer generated and enclosed in a clear, plastic cover. The reports should be attached securely to the display. Please refer to the General Rules for the policy regarding firearms, items with a blade, and other related items.
Team Entries: To qualify for entry at the Nebraska State Fair team materials entered in H860007 - Maker Space/Digital Fabrication must clearly be the work of a team instead of an individual, and must have at least 50% of all team members enrolled in 4-H. Additionally, all enrolled 4-H members on the team should complete and attach an entry tag to the materials. A supplemental page documenting the individual contributions to the project should be included. The entry will be judged as a team, with all team members receiving the same ribbon placing.
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H860001  Computer Application Notebook - 4-H exhibitor should use computer application to create a graphic notebook utilizing computer technology. 4-Her may create any of the following: greeting card (5 different cards such as a birthday, wedding, anniversary, sympathy get well or other); a business card (3 cards for 3 different individuals and businesses); menu (minimum of 2 pages including short description of foods and pricing); book layout (I-book); promotional flyer (3 flyers promoting 3 different events); newsletter (minimum 2 pages); or other: examples such as precision farming or family business logo etc. This exhibit consists of a notebook (8.5x11 inches) which should include a (1) a detailed report describing: (a) the task to be completed, (b) the computer application software required to complete the task, (c) specific features of the computer application software necessary for completing the task (2) print out of your project. Project may be in color or black and white.
H860002   Produce a Computer Slideshow Presentation - Using presentation software a 4-H exhibitor designs a multimedia computer presentation on one topic related to youth. Files must be saved in a PC compatible format with county name and last name of participant before emailing OR the slide show may be shared through a share link or QR code which is included in the notebook. A notebook with a printout of all the slides should be submitted. Slideshow should     include a minimum of 10 slides and no more than 25. Incorporate appropriate slide layouts, graphics, animations and audio (music or voice and transition sounds do not count). Each slide should include notes for a presenter. All slideshows must be uploaded. 
H860003    Produce an Audio/Video Computer Presentation - Using presentation software a 4-H exhibitor designs a multimedia computer presentation on one topic related to youth, including audio and/or video elements. A notebook with a printout of all the slides should be submitted. The presentation should be at least two minutes in length and no more than five minutes in length, appropriate graphics, sound and either a video clip, animation, or voice over and/or original video clip. All digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules.    
H860004   How to STEM Presentation - Youth design a fully automated 2 to 5 minute 4-H “how to” video. Submissions should incorporate a picture or video of the 4-Her, as well as their name (first name only), age (as of January 1 of the current year), years in 4-H, and their personal interests or hobbies. Videos should be designed for web viewing or may be uploaded to a video streaming application and exhibitors can provide a hard copy QR code for public viewing. Any of the following formats will be accepted: .mpeg, .rm,     .wmv, .mp4, .mov, .ppt, or .avi.
H860005  Virtual Platform Presentation - Youth design a fully automated educational presentation using any multimedia platform such as Tik-Tok, YouTube, Canva, Canvas, etc.. Submissions may include a notebook, poster, etc., explaining the process, experience, and/or presentation. All digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules.
H860006   Create a Web Site/Blog or App - Design a simple website, blog, or app for providing information about a topic related to youth. Include an explanation of why the entry was created. Any current website, blog, or app development platform is accepted such as Google Sites, iBuildApp, Wix, etc. All digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules. 
H860007   3D printing uses plastic or other materials to build a three-dimensional (3D) object from a digital design (including 3D Pen Creation). 4-H may use original designs or someone else’s they have redesigned in a unique way. Exhibits will be judged based on the motivation and/or problem identified. For example, 3D objects printed as part of the design process for robot or other engineering project. Must include design notebook that addresses the following questions: 1) What was the motivation for your design or the problem you were solving with your design? i.e. Is your item a functional or decorative piece? 2) Please include a picture of original design, citation of designer/website OR if design is completely original (you created it using CAD software), then state that it’s original. If item was not completely original, indicate what you did to the original design to modify it to better meet the design problem stated in #1 above. Its design was modified multiple times, please indicate what change was made with each modification, and what prompted the need for the change. i.e. I printed it and the design was too fragile, so I resliced the print to make thicker external walls, or to have a denser infill. 3) Define your process for designing/printing. What software and/or hardware was used (indicate type of 3D printer or if item was created with 3D pen)? 4) What materials were selected for your project? 5) If your final design has any moving parts, define how you determined appropriate allowance in your design. 6) Identify any changes that you would make to improve your design. 
H860008      Makerspace/Digital Fabrication - This project is a computer generated projected created using a laser cutter, vinyl cutter, heat press or CNC router. Vector or 3D based software such as Corel Draw or Fusion 360 would be an example of an appropriate software used to create your finished project. Project should include a notebook with the following: 1) What motivated you to create this     project, 2) Software and equipment used, 3) Directions on how to create the project, 4) Prototype of plans, 5) Cost of creating project, 6) Iterations or modifications made to original plans, 7) Changes you would make if you remade the project
*H860009  Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality Exhibit
*H860010  Laser Cutter Design Exhibit
*H860011  micro:bit Display - include both the micro:bit, a copy of the pseudocode, and a page describing exhibit and summary of learning.
*H860012  Virtual World - Poster or Notebook displaying a minimum of 6 screenshots of a virtual world designed by the 4-H member. Any current software/platform can be used (Ex: Minecraft, Roblox). On the poster or notebook, include information that will help the viewer understand the virtual world, the inspiration for the world, and software used.
*H860013  Digital Game - Poster of Notebook displaying a minimum of 6 screenshots of a digital game or level that was designed and developed by the 4-H member. On the poster or notebook, include information that will help the viewer understand how the game is played, the sequence of objectives, and the software used to make the level (Ex: GameMaker Studio 2, Mario Maker 2, Unity, Construct 3).
*H860014  Exhibit of Choice- Poster - 14”x22”,  educational notebook, display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 81/2”x11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning. Max size: 28”x22”

ENERGY - Division 900
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This category provides 4-H’ers a way to present their ideas about renewable energy resources. Through participation in this category 4-H’ers will learn more about physics, friction, energy, and elasticity. In addition, participants will make a display to go along with their findings. for project resources. Name and county of each exhibitor should appear separately on the back of each board, poster or article and on the front cover of the notebooks so owner of the exhibit may be identified if the entry tag is separated. Reports should be written using the scientific method whenever possible (Background, the Question or hypothesis, what you plan to do and what you did, Method used and observations, Results: what you learned. All reports should be computer generated and enclosed in a clear plastic cover. The reports should be attached securely to the display. Posters can be any size up to 28” by 22” when ready for display. Example: tri-fold poster boards are not 28” by 22” when fully open for display. See Engineering Project Information for instructions.

H900001   Create and Compare Energy Resources Poster – Explore 2 alternative/renewable energy resources. Compare and contrast the 2 resources including two of the following information: amount of energy created, costs of production, usability of the energy, pros/cons of environmental impacts, etc. Maximum 22” x 28”.
H900002   Experiment Notebook – Explore the scientific method involving alternative/renewable energy sources. Include:  1) Hypothesis  
2) Research   3) Experiment  4) Measure 5) Report or Redefine Hypothesis
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H900003   Solar as Energy Display/Poster – Item should be the original design of the 4-H member. Include the item, or a picture if item is in excess of 6’ tall or 2’ x 2’. Include notebook of why the item was designed and how it harnesses the power of the sun. Ex:  solar ovens, solar panels, etc.
H900004   Water as Energy Display/Poster - Item should be the original design of the 4-H member. Include the item, or a picture if item is in excess of 6’ tall or 2’ x 2’. Include notebook of why the item was designed and how it harnesses the power of water. 
H900005   Wind as Energy Display/Poster - Item should be the original design of the 4-H member. Include the item, or a picture if item is in excess of 6’ tall or 2’ x 2’. Include notebook of why the item was designed and how it harnesses the power of wind. 
H900006   Other Nebraska Alternative Energy – Notebook should explore Nebraska alternative energy source besides wind, water and solar power. Include information on type of power chose, infrastructure for distribution, what resources are used to create this alternative     resource, cost of production, and potential uses of bio-products. Examples include geothermal, biomass, ethanol, bio-diesel, methane reactors, etc.
*H900007 Alternate Energy Kit Display - a display created from a kit include page describing exhibit and summary of learning.

ELECTRICITY - Division 870
Magic of Electricity 1        
Investigating Electricity 2
Wired for Power 3
Entering Electronics 4
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In this category 4-H’ers have the opportunity to create informational exhibits about the different aspects of electricity. Through involvement in this category 4-H’ers will be better educated about electricity and be able to present their knowledge to others. See https://go.unl.edu/pybo for project resources. See Engineering Project Information for instructions.
*H869001  Electric Energy Conservation Poster- Show useful methods of efficient use of  electrical energy and conservation, 14”x22”.
*H869002  Exhibit of Choice - 14”x22”,  educational notebook, display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 8 1/2”x11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning. Max size: 28”x22”
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Unit 1
*H869003  Bright Lights- Create your own flash light using items found around your house. Flashlights should be made out of items that could be recycled or reused. No kits.
*H869004  Control the Flow- Make a switch. Using the following items: D cell battery, battery holder, insulated wire, 2 or 2.5 volt light bulb, bulb holder, paper clip, cardboard, and two brass paper fasteners to create a circuit that you can open and close.
*H869005  Conducting Things- Make a circuit with a switch and a light bulb that can be used to test different household items for their ability to act as an insulator or conductor. Find five items that are conductors and five items that are insulators. Create a table that illustrates results.
*H869006  There’s a Fork in the Road- Construct one parallel and one series circuit: D cell battery, battery holder, insulated wire, bulb holder and a 2 or 2.5 volt light bulb.
Unit 2
*H869007  Case of the Switching Circuit- Use the following items to build a three way switch: two D cell batteries, two battery holders, light bulb, bulb holder, a 3”x6” piece of cardboard, six brass paper fasteners and approximately two feet of 24 gauge insulated wire. Write a short essay or poster that illustrates how a three way switch functions. 
*H869009  Quiz Board- Follow directions in manual.
*H869010  Rocket Launcher- Construct a rocket launcher with the following materials: a plastic pencil box that is at least 4”x8”, single pole switch, single throw switch, normally-open push button switch, 40 feet of 18 or 22 gauge standard wire, 4 alligator clips, 2-by-6 board 6” long, 1/8” diameter metal rod, rosin core solder, soldering iron or gun, wire stripper, small crescent wrench, pliers, small Phillips and straight blade screwdrivers, drill, 1/8” and 1/4” drill bits, rocket engine igniters, additional drill bits matched to holes for two switches. You must successfully build a rocket launcher and light two rocket igniters with your launcher. You do NOT have to actually fire a rocket off the launcher. Create a poster using photographs to show the “step by step process”.
*H869011    Stop the Crime- Build an alarm using the following materials:
On-off push button switch, mercury switch, buzzer-vibrating or piezoelectric, 9-volt battery, 9-volt battery holder, 4”x4”x1/8” Plexiglas board to mount circuit on, rosin core solder, soldering gun/iron, two feet of 22 gauge wire, wire strippers, hot glue sticks, hot glue gun and a plastic box with a lid to mount your alarm circuit on. Create a poster using photographs to show the  “step by step process”.
Unit 3
H870001   Electrical Tool/Supply Kit- Create an electrical supply kit to be used for basic electrical repair around the house. Include a brief description of each item and its use. Container should be appropriate to hold items.
H870002   Lighting Comparison- Display studying the efficiency of various lighting (incandescent, fluorescent, halogen, Light Emitting Diodes, etc.). Exhibit could be a poster display or an actual item.
H870003   Electrical Display/Item- Show an application of one of the concepts learned in the Wired for Power project. Ex: re-wiring or     building a lamp, re-wiring or making a heavy duty extension cord, developing an electrical diagram of a house, etc.  Poster (14”x22”) or actual item.
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H870004    Poster - Exemplify one of the lessons learned in project (14”x22”).
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Unit 4
H870005    Electrical/Electronic Part Identification- Display different parts used for electrical/electronic work. Exhibit should show the part (either picture or actual item) and give a brief description, including symbol of each part and its function. Include a minimum of 10 different parts.
H870006    Electronic Display- Show an application of one of the concepts learned in the project. Ex: components of an electronic device (manual pg. 35).
H870007    Electronic Project- Exhibit an electronic item designed by the 4-H’er or from a manufactured kit that shows the electronic expertise of the 4-H’er. Ex: radio, computer or volt meter.
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H870008    Poster - Exemplify one of the lessons learned in project (14”x22”).

GEOSPATIAL - Division 880
GEOSPATIAL PROJECT INFORMATION
SET Geospatial is a diverse category that includes a variety of exhibits 4-H’ers can get involved in. Through participation in this category 4-H’ers will gain more knowledge about Nebraska’s rich history and diverse geography. Take close note of the rules to ensure your exhibit qualifies. For more resources and materials in this category refer to the resource section at the bottom of the page.
The name and county of each exhibitor should appear separately on the back of each board, poster or article and on the front cover of the notebooks so owner of the exhibit may be identified if the entry tag is separated from the exhibit. Reports should be written using the scientific method whenever possible (Background, the Question or hypothesis, what you plan to do and what you did, Method used and observations, Results: what you learned. All reports should be computer generated and enclosed in a clear plastic cover. The reports should be attached securely to the display. Please refer to the General Rules for the policy regarding firearms, items with a blade, and other related items. Please refer to the General Rules for the policy regarding use of copy written images.
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H880001 Poster - Create a poster (not to exceed 14”x 22”) communicating a GPS theme such as How GPS or GIS works, Careers that use GPS or GIS, How to use GPS, What is GIS, GPS or GIS in Agriculture, Precision Agriculture, or a geospatial topic of interest.
H880002 4-H Favorite places or Historical Site Poster - The 4-H exhibitor identifies a favorite place or historical site (including grave sites) in Nebraska. Exhibit should include latitude and longitude, digital picture, and local area map. Poster size should not exceed 14” X 22”.
H880003 GPS Notebook - Keep a log of at least 5 places visited using a GPS enabled device. At least one site should be from a community other than where you live. For each site, record the latitude, longitude and elevation. Also include a description of the site, a paragraph explaining what was interesting about the site or finding it. Photos of each site and/or cache are optional but encouraged.
H880004 Geocache - Assemble a themed geocache. Each geocache should be a water-tight container. It should include a logbook and pencil for finders to log their visits and may include small trinket, geo-coins, etc. for the finders to trade. Documentation should include a title, teaser description and the geographic coordinates of intended placement. Register the site at geocaching.com, include a print-out of its registry. The entry may include a photograph of the cache in its intended hiding place.
H880005 Agriculture Precision Mapping - 4-Hers will assemble a notebook that will include a minimum of 2 digital copies of various data layers     that can be used in precision agriculture to identify spatial patterns and/or correlations (printed copies of websites were applications can be purchased is acceptable) A report of how the analysis of the various data will be used to make a management decision.
H880007 GIS Thematic Map – Using any GIS software, create a thematic map. Thematic maps can utilize any subject of interest to the 4-H’er. Example map would be Amelia Earhart’s or Sir Francis Drake’s voyage, population density maps, water usage maps or 4-H project in Nebraska. Create GIS Map using data from books and/or internet. Use reliable data, (U.S. Center or U.S. Census Bureau etc.) Map any size from 8.5” x 11” up to 36” x 24”, which should include Title, Base Map, Neat Line, North Arrow, and Legend. Identify the source of your information on the back of the map.
H880008 - Virtual Geocache - Keep a log of at least 5 places visited using a virtual geocache platform. At least one site should be from a community other than where you live. For each site, record the latitude, longitude and elevation. Also include a description of the site, a paragraph explaining what was interesting about the site or finding it. Photos of each site and/or cache are optional, but highly encouraged.

WOODWORKING - Division 911
Measuring Up - Level 1
Making the Cut - Level 2
Nailing It Together - Level 3
Finishing Up - Level 4
See Engineering Project Information for instructions.
WOODWORKING PROJECT INFORMATION
In this category 4-H’ers have the opportunity to create exhibits about varying levels of woodworking. In addition, participants can also create informational exhibits about their woodworking projects. Through involvement in this category 4-H’ers will be better educated about the topic and better their woodworking skills. The ability to build objects as designed by another person is an important life skill. Professional woodworkers ofter are hired to build objects to exact specifications as laid out in a written plan.
The name and county of each exhibitor should appear separately on the back of each board, poster or article and on the front cover of the notebooks so owner of the exhibit may be identified if the entry tag is separated from the exhibit. All entries/articles must include a plan (with drawings or sketch or blueprint) stating dimensions and other critical instructions a builder would need to know how to build the project and 4-Her’s name & county. Plans may include narrative instructions in addition to the dimension drawings and include any alternations to the original plan.  Part of the score depends on how well the project matches the plans. If plans are modified, the changes from the original need to be noted on the plans. All plans used for making the article must be securely attached and protected by a clear plastic cover. 4-H’ers must be in Unit 3 or Unit 4 for the exhibit to be considered for State Fair. All projects must have appropriate finish. If the project (i.e. picnic tables, wishing wells, swings, chairs, bridges, doghouses, etc.) is designed to be used outside, it will be displayed outside at the State Fair. For specific instructions on completing a demonstration board display or report, visit:  https://go.unl.edu/7x8c
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*H910001  Ten Woodworking Related Articles- Mount on 24”x22”x1/4” board. Identify each with: kind, type or grade; where or why it i used; their importance in woodworking. Display might include types of wood fasteners, types or grades of sandpaper, types of wood finishes, etc.
Unit 1
*H910002  Woodworking Article- Item made using skills learned in manual. Ex: recipe holder, stilts, etc.
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Unit 2
*H910003  Woodworking Article- Item made using skills learned in manual. Ex: birdhouse, foot stool, napkin or letter holder, etc.
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Unit 3
H911001   Woodworking Article- Item should be made using either joints, hinges, dowels, or a dado joining made using skills learned in manual. Exhibit must be appropriately finished.  Ex: bookcase,     coffee table, end table, etc..
H911003  Recycled Woodworking Display- Article made from recycled,
reclaimed or composite wood. Article must be appropriately finished and/or sealed and utilize one or more woodworking techniques from page 2 of the Unit 3 manual. Exhibit must include woodworking plan and a minimum one page report of how the engineering design process was used to develop the woodworking plan. Engineering Design Process: 1)State the problem (Why did you need this item?) 2) Generate possible solutions (How have others solved the problem? What other alternatives or designs were considered?) 3) Select a solution (How does your solution compare on the basis of cost, availability, and functionality?) 4) Build the item (What was your woodworking plan, and what processes did you     use to build your item?)  5) Reason for article finish (What type of finish, how did you finish or why you chose this finish)  6)  Evaluate (How does your item solve the original need?)  7) Present results (How would you do this better next time?).
H911004      Composite Wood Project - 60% of the project must be wood and 40% made from other materials such as metal, rubber, resin, etc.    All plans and plan alterations must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. If a project is designed to be outside, it is required to have appropriate outdoor finish.
H911005  Outdoor Wood Project made with Treated Wood - Treated wood projects DO NOT have to have a finished coating. All plans and     plan alternations must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. Ex. picnic tables, planters, outdoor furniture, etc.    
H911006 Wood Projects created on a Turning Lathe- Article is the object created from spinning wood on a turning lathe. Article must be appropriately finished and/or sealed. Exhibit must include plans detailing design and process of completion, any changes made to the design, details, of finishing techniques, and other relevant information about the article. Must include a description of tools used.     
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Unit 4
H911007   Woodworking Article - Item made using skills learned in manual. Ex: dovetailing, making a pen using a lathe, overlays, using a router, etc.
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H911008   Recycled Woodworking Display - Article made from recycled, reclaimed or composite wood. Article must be appropriately finished     and/or sealed and utilize on or more wood working techniques from p. 2 of Unit 3 manual. Exhibit must include woodworking plan and a minimum one page report of how the engineering design process was used to develop the woodworking plan. Engineering Design Process:  1) State the problem (Why did you need this item?)  2) Generate possible solutions (How have others solved the problem? What other alternatives or designs were considered?) 3) Select a solution (How does your solution compare on the basis of cost, availability, and functionality?) 4) Build the item (What was your woodworking plan, and what processes did you use to build your item?)   5) Reason for article finish (What type of finish, how did you finish or why you chose this finish). 6)  Evaluate (How does your item solve the original need?     7) Present results (How would you do this better next time?).

WELDING - Division 920
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This category helps 4-H’ers learn the basics of welding. In addition, 4-H’ers get the opportunity to present their knowledge on the topic and display what they have made. Involvement in SET Welding gives participants a first-hand experience in a skill that can be used for a lifetime. For specific instructions on preparing display boards and reports visit: https://go.unl.edu/sj5i 
See Engineering Project Information for instructions.
WELDING PROJECT INFORMATION
All welds (classes H920001 & H920002)  must be mounted on a 12” high x 15” long display board of thickness not to exceed 3/8”.  Attach each weld on a wire loop hinge or equivalent, so the judge can look at the bottom side of the weld when necessary. Each weld should be labeled with information stated: 1) type of welding process (stick, MIG, TIG, Oxy-Acetylene, etc.) 2) kind of weld, 3) welder setting, 4) electrode/wire/rod size, and 5) electrode/wire/rod ID numbers.  Attach a wire to display board so it can be hung like a picture frame. No picture frame hangers accepted. If plans are NOT included with welding article or welding furniture, item will be disqualified. 
All outside projects MUST have entry tag and supporting information placed in a protective bag to prevent damage from weather events such as rain and be ATTACHED to projects with string, zip ties, etc. Fabricated board such as plywood, composition board, or particle-type lumber may be used for demonstration displays. Demonstration boards should be sanded and finished to improve their appearance. The finish on a demonstration board will be judged as a woodworking exhibit.
Reports should be written using the scientific method whenever possible (Background, the Question or hypothesis, what you plan to do and what you did, Method used and observations, Results: what you learned). All reports should include 4-Her name and county, be computer generated and enclosed in a clear plastic cover. The reports should be attached securely to the display. If no plans are included with welding art, welding article, welding furniture or composite weld project item will be disqualified.
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H920001   Welding Joints - Display of one butt, one lap and one fillet weld. 1)  All welds should be made with the same electrode/wire/rod size and number. 2) Welds should be made only on one side of metal so penetration can be judged. 3) Welds should be cleaned with chipping hammer and wire brush. Apply a coat of light (penetrating oil) to the metal to prevent rusting.  Wipe off excess oil. 4) It is suggested that all welds be of the same size and     thickness as metal. These pieces, referred to as coupons, should be 1.5” to 2” wide and 3.5” to 4” long. A good  way to get this size is to buy new cold rolled strap iron and cut it to length. The extra length is needed to provide enough metal to absorb the heat from the welding process and prevent the coupons from becoming too hot before the bead is completed. Narrower coupons will become very hot, making an average welder setting too cold at the bead start, just about right in the middle, and too hot at the end. The correct way to weld narrow strips is to make short beads and allow time to cool, however, this project requires a full length bead. 
Stick Welding: Suggested coupon thickness - 1/4” if using 1/8” rod.     Suggested rod AC and DC straight or reverse polarity - first E-7014, second E-6013. 
MIG welding: Suggested coupon thickness - 1/4” if using .035 wore and 1/8” if using .023 wire. Oxy-Acetylene: Suggested coupon thickness - 1/8”, suggested rod - 1/8” mild steel rod.
H920002   Position Welds - Display showing three beads welded in the vertical down, horizontal and overhead positions. 1.) It is suggested that all welds be of the same size of thickness of metal. These pieces are referred to a coupon. The welds can be on once coupon that is 4”x4” or on individual coupons that are about 2”x4” and 1/4” thick. Suggested rods for this class of position welds for AC and DC straight or reverse polarity is 1st E-6013, 2nd E-7010 and E-6010 for DC reverse polarity only. 2) Welds should be cleaned with a chipping hammer and wire brush. Apply a coat of penetrating oil to prevent rusting. Wipe off excess oil
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H920003  Welding Art – any art created using tack welds to hold the metal pieces together (examples include horseshoe projects).  Type of welder, welder settings, all plans, plan alternations, and a bill for material must be attached to the article.  Protect plans with a cover. If project is designed to be outside, it is required to have appropriate outdoor finish.
H920004   Welding Article - Any shop article or piece of furniture where welding is used in the construction. 60% of item must be completed by 4-H member and notes regarding laser welding or machine welding must be included.  Type of welder, welder settings, all plans, plan alterations, and a bill for material must be attached to article. Protect plans with a cover. All welds should be cleaned and protected from rust with paint or light oil. Plans are to be complete enough that if they were given to a welding shop, the item could be made without further instructions. Bill of materials should include a cost for all items used including steel, electrodes, paint, wheels, etc.
H920005  Welding Furniture - Any furniture with 75% welding is used in construction.  60% of item must be completed by 4-H member and notes regarding laser welding or machine welding must be included. Type of welder, welder settings, all plans, plan alternations, and a bill for material must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. If project is designed to be outside it is required to have appropriate outdoor finish because project may be displayed outside.
H920006  Plasma Cutter/Welder Design – Plasma cutters/welders allowed for detailed design/s to butt cut into metal.  Exhibitor will create a notebook describing the design process to create the “artwork” to butt cut into the metal.  Include in notebook:  1) Photo (front and back) of the finished project with detailed photos of the cuts.  2) Instructions on how the design was created (include software used), this allows for replication of the project.  3) Lessons learned or improvements to the project, 4) Steps to finish the project
H920007     Composite Weld Project - 60% of the project must be welded and 40% made from other materials such as wood, rubber, etc. Type of welder, welder settings, all plans, plan alternations, and a bill for material must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. If project is designed to be outside, it is required to have an appropriate outdoor finish.
 

Healthy Lifestyles: Food, Nutrition, Cake Decorating & Food Preservation

Open to 4-H member enrolled in Foods project. Baked entries should utilize a recipe that is a family favorite, heritage, etc. Exhibit 4 on a plate, 3/4 of a loaf, etc. Include recipe/directions on half sheet, 8 1/2”x11”. Food products must be safe to eat after an extended length of time without refrigeration. 
*E348001  Simple Baked Item
*E348002  Baked Dessert
*E348003  Baked Breakfast Food
*E348004  Quick Bread
*E348005  Yeast Bread
*E348006  Family heritage cooked/baked food item
*E348007  Canned Exhibit (1 Jar)
*E348008  Dehydrated Fruit or Vegetable   
*E348009  Collection of Family/ Heritage Recipes (10)        
*E348010   Exhibit of Choice

FOODS PROJECT INFORMATION
See “General Rules” on page 19 for project information. 
4-H All-Star Champion and Reserve Champion Awards - Age Divisions (4-H age January 1, 2026): Sr. Division- 14 and older; Int. Division- 11-13; Jr. Division- 8-10.
Nebraska State Fair: Classes are eligible for State Fair competition unless marked with an * which denotes COUNTY CLASS ONLY. All static exhibits selected for the State Fair must receive a purple ribbon at county fair judging. 
Label each exhibit with exhibitor’s name on back or bottom of exhibit. Label all pieces of an exhibit. 
Exhibits released Sunday, July 26. No premium money given if exhibits are removed before deadline. Remaining exhibits should be picked up Monday, July 27. 
Recipes for processed foods used by 4-H for fair exhibition (except salsa) may originate from any source. All processed/preserved food products must use USDA approved processing methods.
Recipe should be made from basic ingredients unless otherwise noted. Bread machine may be used ONLY in classes *E410010 & *E410011.
Each exhibit must include the recipe. Recipe may be handwritten, photocopied or typed. Missing recipe will lower exhibit one ribbon placing. Place food on the appropriately sized, disposable plate or container and put in self-sealing bag. Biscuits, muffins, or cookies should be placed on a 6” paper plate. Use a larger plate and bag for larger items.  Attach entry tag and recipe at the corner of the bag. For non-food entries, please attach the entry tag to the upper right- hand corner of the entry. Additional information including recipes and supplemental information should be identified with 4-H’ers name and county on the bottom or back of exhibit. 
Entries must conform to directions in each class. Incorrect, or incomplete entries will be lowered one ribbon placing. Commercially prepared mixes are allowed in the Cooking 201 Creative Mixes class only. Prepared baking mixes, biscuit mixes, commercially prepared seasoning mixes for food preservation, or other pre-made mixes entered in other categories will be dropped one ribbon placing. 
Sourdough is categorized differently than standard yeast breads due to its unique leavening agent and fermentation process and may ONLY be entered in Cooking 201 Baking with Whole Grains, Cooking 401 Family Food 
Traditions, or Cooking 401 Ethnic Food Exhibit. 
Any bread item prepared or baked using a bread machine should be entered under the Cooking 201 Non-Traditional Baked Product. All exhibits made in the Cooking 301 or Cooking 401 projects must have been prepared without the assistance of a bread machine for mixing, raising, or baking of the food item.
Ingredients that the 4-H member cannot legally purchased, such as beer, whiskey, rum, etc. may not be used in any recipe or exhibit. 
Exhibits are on display for several days. Please think FOOD SAFETY! Items that require refrigeration will not be accepted, judged, or displayed as exhibits must be safe to eat when entered, whether they are tasted or not.
Glazes, frostings, and other sugar based toppings are also considered safe due to the high sugar content. Egg glazes on yeast products before baking are allowed.  Eggs incorporated into baked goods or crusts and cheeses mixed into bread dough are considered safe. All fruit fillings must be cooked. 
The following food ingredients are considered unsafe for fair exhibits and will be disqualified: Egg or cream fillings and cream cheese frostings,
any meat item including meat jerky, imitation meat bits (bacon bits, pepperoni, etc.); melted cheese on top of food exhibit (cheese mixed into baked goods is considered safe and will be accepted), Uncooked fruit toppings (i.e., fresh fruit tart).

COUNTY FOODS EXHIBITS - Division 349
CHOCOLATE LOVERS CONTEST
Premium Category 6
Open to any 4-H member. No mixes. Recipes must include minimum 1/4 cup cocoa or any chocolate product. Must last duration of the fair. Include recipe. Exhibit 4 on a plate, 1 cup, 3/4 of a loaf of bread, or appropriate amount for judging. 4-H age divisions: Jr. (under age 12) and Sr. (age 12 and older).  
Jr. Div.         Sr. Div.
*E349010     *E349018    Baked Dessert (on a 6” plate)
*E349011     *E349019    Cookies/Bars
*E349012     *E349020    Brownies
*E349013     *E349021    Chocolate Candy
*E349014     *E349022    Chocolate Bread
*E349015     *E349023    Decorated Chocolate Cupcakes
*E349016     *E349024     Chocolate for Breakfast 
            (include healthy ingredient)
*E349017     *E349025     Chocolate Photograph - Photo chocolate 
            creatively - 5” x 7”, mounted on 8” x 10” black poster board, vertical or horizontal
KING ARTHUR FLOUR BAKING CONTEST
Premium Category 6
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Foods project. Exhibitors must use King Arthur flour in all baking aspects of the contest. Use any recipe: must include recipe PLUS the UPC Code from the King Arthur Flour Sack/Bag. 
*E349030  White Yeast Bread - 3/4 of a loaf
*E349031  Wheat or Mixed Grain Yeast Bread - 3/4 of a loaf
*E349032  Sweet Rolls or Specialty Bread - 4 on a plate or 3/4 of a  loaf or ring
*E349033  Dinner Rolls (any shape) - 4 on a plate
*E349034  Cookies, Bars, or Brownies - 4 on a plate 
*E349035  French Bread - 3/4 of a loaf
*E349036  Cake, Sponge Cake, Angel Food Cake
*E349037  Exhibit of Choice

GIFTS FROM YOUR KITCHEN
Premium Category 6
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Foods project. Prepare and package a food gift creatively. Ex: yeast product in a basket, cookies in a decorative tin, etc. Exhibit must include a prepared item (finished product) made by 4-H member, suitable for human consumption. Ex: cookie mix in a jar exhibit must include a baked cookie. If item is perishable, enter class *E350033 or *E350040. On index card indicate whom the gift is intended for and the occasions. 4-H age divisions: Jr. (4-H under the age of 12), Sr. (4-H age 12 and older).
Jr. Div.               Sr. Div.
*E349040         *E349046     Food Gift - Theme of Your Choice 
*E349041         *E349047     Food Gift in a Paper Bag/Box/Container
*E349042         *E349048     Food Gift in a Jar/Glass Container
*E349043         *E349049     Food Gift in a Pail/Tin/Metal Container
*E349044         *E349050     Candy Bar Bouquet
*E349045         *E349051     Food Gift Without Prepared Item (perishable 
            item); Ex: soup, or dip mix; Theme of Your 
            Choice

GENERAL FOODS & NUTRITION - Division 350
Premium Category 6
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Foods project
E350001  Food Science Explorations - Show the connection between food and science as it relates to food preparation, food safety, food preservation or food production. Exhibit may be a poster or foam core board (not to exceed 22”x30”), computer based presentation printed with note pages, if needed, and displayed in binder, an exhibit display, a written report in portfolio or notebook. (Sourdough is an acceptable exploration in this class).
E350002  Foods and Nutrition Poster, Scrapbook, or Photo Display - The project should involve a nutrition or food preparation technique or explore a career related to the food industry ( caterer, restaurant owner, food scientist, registered dietitian, etc.) Might contain pictures, captions and/or a report to highlight the concept. Exhibit may be a poster or foam core board (not to exceed 22” by 30”), a computer based presentation printed off with notes pages, if needed, and displayed in a binder (no larger than 8.5” X 11”), an exhibit display, or a written report in a portfolio or notebook. Consider neatness and creativity.
E350003 Physical Activity and Health Poster, Scrapbook, or Photo Display The project should involve a physical activity or explore a career-related to physical activity or health (personal trainer, sports coach, physical therapist, etc.). This might contain pictures, captions and/or a report to highlight the concept. Exhibit may be a poster or a foam core board (not to exceed 22” by 30”), a computer based presentation printed off with notes pages, if needed, and displayed in a binder, an exhibit display, or a written report in a portfolio. 
Consider neatness and creativity
E350004   Cooking Basics Recipe File – Collection of 10 recipes from any
source displayed in a recipe file or binder (no larger than 8.5”X11”). Each recipe must accompany a complete menu in which the recipe 
is used. An additional 10 recipes may be added each year the 4-H member is in the project, with year clearly marked on recipes. Include the number of servings or yield of each recipe. This may be a continued recipe file project from previously used 4-H curriculum (prior to 2021). Exhibits that include recipes with alcohol (wine, beer, rum, etc.) will be disqualified.

COOKING 101 - Division 350
Premium Category 8
*E350055  Cookies – Any recipe, 4 on a plate.
*E350056  Muffins – Any recipe, 4 on a plate. 
*E350057  No Bake Cookie – Any recipe, 4 on a plate.
*E350058  Cereal Bar Cookie – Any cereal based recipe made in pan and cut into bars or  squares for serving.
*E350059  Granola Bar – Any recipe, 4 on a plate.
*E350060  Brownies – Any recipe, 4 on a plate. 
*E350061  Snack Mix – Any recipe, at least 1 cup in self-sealing plastic bag.

COOKING 201 - Division 410
Premium Category 8
E410001   Loaf Quick Bread – Any recipe, at least ¾ of a standard loaf
(8 ½” x 4 ¼” or 9” x 5”) displayed on paper plate. Quick bread is any bread that does not require kneading or rising time and does NOT include yeast. 
E410002   Creative Mixes - Any recipe, at least 3/4 of baked product or 4 muffins or cookies on a paper plate or in a disposable pan. Baked item made from a mix (commercial or homemade mixes acceptable). Food product must have been modified to make a new or different baked item. Ex: Poppy Seed Quick Bread from a cake mix, cake mix cookies, pudding mix cookies, streusel coffee cake from a cake mix, sweet rolls made from ready made bread dough, monkey breads from biscuit dough, Streusel Coffee Cake from a cake mix, etc.  Write what you learned from making this product using a mix instead of homemade recipe or recipe “from scratch”. Does it make it better or easier to use a convenience product or mix? Why or why not?
E410003   Biscuits or Scones – 4 biscuits or scones on small paper plate, any type: rolled or dropped.  Any recipe may be used but it must be     a non-yeast product baked from scratch. 
E410004   Healthy Baked Product - Any recipe, include 3/4 of baked product, 4 muffins or cookies on a paper plate. May be baked in a disposable pan.  Recipe must contain a fruit or vegetable as part of ingredients (Ex:  banana bars, cantaloupe quick bread, zucchini muffins, etc.)
E410005   Coffee Cake - Any recipe or shape, non-yeast product, at least 3/4 of baked product. May be baked in disposable pan. Include menu for a complete meal where this recipe is used, following meal planning guidelines in Cooking 201.
E410006   Baking With Whole Grains – Any recipe, at last ¾ of baked product or 4 muffins or cookies on paper plate. May be baked in disposable pan. Recipe must contain whole grains as part of the ingredients. Ex:  whole wheat applesauce bread, peanut butter oatmeal cookies, sourdough, etc.
E410007   Non-Traditional Baked Product – Baked food product prepared using a non-traditional method (Ex: bread machine, cake baked in air fryer, baked item made in microwave, etc.)  Entry must be at least ¾ baked product, or 4 muffins or cookies on paper plate. Include supporting information that discusses alternative preparation method and ow it compares with traditional method. NOTE:  Any bread item prepared or baked using a bread machine is entered in this class. 
*E410009  Bread in a Bag - Any recipe, at least 3/4 of a loaf, bread dough mixed in a bag.

COOKING 301 - Division 411
Premium Category 7
Exhibits must be prepared without use of a bread machine for mixing, raising, or baking.
E411001   White Bread - Any yeast recipe; 3/4 of a standard loaf on paper plate.
E411002   Whole Wheat or Mixed Grain Bread - Any yeast recipe; 3/4 of a standard loaf on paper plate.
E411003   Specialty Rolls - Any yeast recipe, 4 on a paper plate. Ex: sweet rolls, bagels, English Muffins, kolaches, or any other similar recipe that makes individual portions.
E411004   Dinner Rolls - Any yeast recipe, 4 on a paper plate. Ex:  clover leaf, crescent,  knot, bun, bread sticks, or any other type of dinner roll.
E411005   Specialty Bread - Any yeast recipe.  Ex: Tea ring, braid, or any other full sized specialty bread products.  Must exhibit at least 3/4 of a standard loaf baked product.  May be baked in disposable pan.
E411006   Shortened Cake – Must exhibit at least ¾ of a cake (recipe must not be from a cake mix). Shortened cakes use fat for flavor and     texture; recipes usually begin by beating fat with sugar by creaming and include leavening agents in the recipe. Cake may be frosted with a non-perishable frosting (no cream cheese or egg white based frostings).

COOKING 401 - Division 412
Premium Category 6
Exhibits must be prepared without use of a bread machine for mixing, raising, or baking.
E412001   Double Crust Fruit Pie - Made with homemade fruit filling. No egg pastries or cream fillings. No canned fillings or pre-made pie crusts. May be double crust, crumb, cut-out, or lattice topping. Using an 8” or 9” disposable pan is recommended. NOTE:  After judging, 4-H member may take all but one piece home.
E412002   Family Food Traditions – Any recipe, at least ¾ of a baked product, 4 muffins or cookies on paper plate.  May be baked in     disposable pan. Any baked item associated with family tradition and heritage.  Entry must include (A) Recipe, (B) Tradition or heritage associated with preparing, serving the food, (C) Where or who the traditional recipe came from. (Sourdough is acceptable in this class)
E412003   Ethnic Food Exhibit – Any recipe, at least ¾ of baked product, 4 muffins or cookies on paper plate. May be baked in disposable pan. Name of the country, culture or region should be included as part of the supporting information with the recipe, as well as background information about the country or culture the food item is representing. (Sourdough is acceptable in this class)
E412004   Candy - Any recipe, 4 pieces of candy on a paper plate or ½ cup. No items containing cream cheese will be accepted, ex: cream cheese mints. Candy may be cooked or not cooked, dipped, molded, made in the microwave or other methods of candy preparation. Include recipe.
E412005   Foam Cake – Original recipe, no mixes, at least ¾ of the cake. Foam cakes have a high ratio of eggs to flour and fall into three categories: angel food cakes or meringues; sponge or jelly roll cakes; chiffon cakes.  Cake may be frosted with a non-perishable frosting (no cream cheese or egg white based frostings).
E412006   Specialty Pastry - Any recipe, at least 3/4 of baked product or 4 muffins or cookies on a paper plate. May be baked in a disposable pan. Baked items such as pie tarts, puff pastry, phyllo doughs, scones, biscotti, choux, croissants, Danish, strudels. Phyllo dough may be pre-made or from scratch. Pastries made with cream or egg based fillings will be disqualified.

CAKE DECORATING - Division 415
Trophies, Awards, Sponsors
Carolyn Schlake - Champion & Reserve - Senior & Junior Divisions

4-H THEME EXHIBITS
Cream of the Crop
Non-Competitive
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Cake Decorating.  Exhibit may be a shape or decorated with tips and/or edible or non-edible decorations. Baked cake or styrofoam may be decorated.
*E412009 Gage County Fair Theme Decorated Cake

CUPCAKE & COOKIE DECORATING
Premium Category 7
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Foods project. Cupcakes and cookies may be home baked or purchased. May use tip/s and/or candy decorations, etc. Exhibit 4 cookies or cupcakes unless otherwise indicated (class 18, 19 & 28).  Do NOT cover exhibit.  
4-H age divisions:  Jr. (under age 12) 
                              Sr. (age 12 and older).  
Jr. Div.            Sr. Div.
*E415010    *E415020    Decorated Cupcakes - Theme of Your Choice
*E415011    *E415021    Decorated Cookies - Theme of Your Choice
*E415012    *E415022    Decorated Cupcakes - Fair Theme
*E415013    *E415023    Decorated Cookies - Fair Theme
*E415014    *E415024    Cupcake Cake - Arrangement of Decorated Cupcakes
*E415015    *E415025    Cake, Cookie or Brownie on a Stick (4 on a plate)

CAKE DECORATING
Baked cake or styrofoam may be decorated. Cake should be exhibited on a sturdy base (plywood, bread board, paneling) which may be covered with paper, plastic doilies or ruffles. Non-edible decorations should not be used on the cake unless specified. Details outlined in Cake Decorating Manual. Make frosting with shortening rather than butter. Fondant may be used in any level exhibit/s. Include recipe if homemade. 
Exhibitor should sign release form when entering whether to take cake home after judging or leave it for display.
Beginning Level - Premium Category 6
*E415030  Birthday Cake - Shape or layer/s decorated in any method.
*E415031  One layer cake decorated with edible items, such as pretzels candies, etc. No tips.
*E415032  One layer cake decorated with non-edible items. No tips.
*E415033  One or two layer decorated cake using non-edible decorations and one or more tip/s.
*E415034  One or two layer decorated cake using edible decorations and one or more tip/s.
*E415035  Shape Cake OR Cut-Out Shape Cake - Optional use of tip/s.
Intermediate Level - Premium Category 5
*E415036  One layer decorated cake using two or more different decorating tips. Sugar molding may be used.
*E415037  Two layer  decorated cake using two or more different decorating tips. Sugar molding may be used.
*E415038  Shape Cake OR Cut Out Shape Cake - Optional use of tip/s.
Advanced Level - Premium Category 4
*E415039  Two layer decorated cake showing use of three or more different decorating tips. Sugar molding may be used.
*E415040  Three-tiered cake - suggested combination is 6”, 8”, and 12”.
*E415041  3-D Cake

FOOD PRESERVATION - Division 416
FOOD PRESERVATION PROJECT INFORMATION 
Processing Methods:  Current USDA processing methods and altitude adjustments must be followed for all food preservation. Jam, preserves and marmalades, fruit, tomatoes and pickled products must be processed in a boiling water bath. Tomatoes may be processed in a pressure canner. All non-acid vegetables and meats must be processed in a pressure canner.  Improperly canned or potentially hazardous food items will be disqualified. Spoiled or unsealed container disqualifies entry.
Uniformity: Jars and lids do not need to be the same brand. Half pint jars may be used for jellies and preserves. The jars are not to be decorated by exhibitor. Canning jars must be used, others will be disqualified. 
One-fourth pint jars are NOT allowed. Leave jar rings on for fair display; it helps protect the seal. No zinc lids. Two-piece lids consisting of a flat metal disk and a ring should be used. No zinc lids or one-piece lids.
Current Project: All canning must be the result of this year’s 4-H project, since July 31, 2025.
Criteria for Judging: Incomplete exhibits will be lowered a ribbon placing. Canned food items not processed according to altitude in the county will be lowered one ribbon placing.
Labeling: Jars should be labeled with the name of the food item, name of the 4-H’er, county, and date of processing on the bottom of each jar. Exhibits containing multiple jars such as a “3 jar exhibit” should be placed in a container to keep jars together. Each bag containing dried foods should also be labeled with the name of the food item, the name of the 4-H’er, county and drying date. Multiple dried food exhibits should be secured by a rubber band or “twisty” to keep exhibit containing the 3 self-sealing bags together.
Recipe: Recipe can come from any source but current USDA guidelines for food preservation methods must be followed. Recipe must be included, may be handwritten, photocopied or typed. Commercially prepared seasoning mixes are not allowed. Website: http://food.unl.edu/web/preservation/home for current USDA guideline, how to find your Nebraska altitude, and proper procedures for food preservation.  
All exhibits must include the 4-H Food Preservation Card attached to the project as the required supporting information or include the following information with exhibit: 1) Name of product, 2) Date preserved, 3) Method of preservation (pressure canner, water bath canner, or dried), 4) Type of pack (raw pack or hot pack), 5) Altitude (and altitude adjustment, if needed), 6) Processing time, 7) Number of pounds of pressure (if pressure canner used), 8) Drying method and drying time (for dried food exhibit), 9) Recipe and source of recipe (if a publication, include name and date).  https://go.unl.edu/fillablepreservationcard

Premium Category 6
Unit 1 Freezing Project 
E406001   Baked Item Made with Frozen Produce – Any recipe, at least ¾ of baked product, 4 muffins or cookies on paper plate.  May be baked in disposable pan. Recipe must include a food item pre-served by the freezing method done by the 4-H member. Ex: peach pie, blueberry muffins, zucchini bread, etc.  Supporting information must include both the recipe for the produce that was frozen as part of this project AND the baked food item.
Unit 2 Drying Project
E407001   Dried Fruits - Exhibit 3 different examples of 3 different dried 
fruit. Place each dried fruit food (6-10 pieces, minimum 1/4 C) in     separate self-sealing bags. Use rubber band or “twisty” to keep exhibit together.
E407002   Fruit Leather - Exhibit 3 different examples of 3 different fruit leathers. Place a 3-4” sample of each fruit leather together in self-sealing bag. Use rubber band or “twisty” to keep exhibit together.
E407003   Vegetable Leather - Exhibit 3 different examples of 3 different vegetable or vegetable/fruit leather combo. Place a 3-4“ sample of each leather together in self-sealing bag. Use rubber band or “twisty” to keep exhibit together.
E407004   Dried Vegetables - Exhibit 3 different samples of 3 different dried vegetables. Place each food (1/4 C of each vegetable) in separate self-sealing bag. Use rubber band or “twisty” to keep exhibit together.
E407005   Dried Herbs - Exhibit 3 different samples of 3 different dried herbs. Place each food (1/4 C of each herb) in self-sealing bag. Use     rubber band or “twisty” to keep exhibit together.
E407006   Baked Item Made with Dried Produce/Herbs – Any recipe, at least ¾ of baked product, 4 muffins or cookies on paper plate. May be baked in a disposable pan.  Recipe must include a dried produce/herb item made by 4-H member. Ex: Granola bar made with dried fruits, dried cranberry cookies, Italian herb bread, lemon thyme cookies. Supporting information must include both the recipe for the dried produce/herb AND the baked item.
Unit 3 Boiling Water Canning Project
Entry must be processed in the boiling water bath according to current USDA recommendations. 
E408001   1 Jar Fruit Exhibit - 1 Jar of canned fruit.
E408002   3 Jar Fruit Exhibit - 3 Jars of different canned fruits. May be 
three different techniques for same type of product. (Ex: applesauce,     canned apples, apple pie, etc.    
E408003   1 Jar Tomato Exhibit - 1 jar of canned tomato product. 
E408004   3 Jar Tomato Exhibit - 3 jars of different canned tomato prod-
ucts. Ex:  salsa, sauces without meats, juice, stewed, etc. 
E408005   1 Jar Pickled Exhibit - 1 jar of pickled and/or fermented product. 
E408006   3 Jar Pickled Exhibit - 3 jars of different canned pickled and/or 
fermented  products. 
E408007   1 Jar Jellied Exhibit - 1 jar of a jam, jelly or marmalade. 
E408008   3 Jar Jellied Exhibit - 3 different kinds of different jellied prod-
ucts. May be pints or half pints (but all jars must be the same size).  
Unit 4 Pressure Canning Project
Entry must be processed in the boiling water bath according to current USDA recommendations. 
E414001  1 Jar Vegetable or Meat Exhibit - 1 jar of canned vegetable or meat.  
E414002   3 Jar Vegetable Exhibit - 3 jars of different canned vegetables.
E414003   3 Jar Meat Exhibit – 3 jars of different canned meats. 
E414004   Quick Dinner - Exhibit minimum 3 jars to maximum 5 jars (all the same size) plus menu. Meal should include 3 canned foods that     can be prepared within an hour. List complete menu on 3”x5” card and attach to one of the jars. 
E414005  1 Jar Tomato Exhibit - 1 jar of canned tomato product. 
E414006  3 Jar Tomato Exhibit - 3 jars of different canned tomato products. Ex: salsa, sauces without meats, juice, stewed, etc.

CLOTHING & TEXTILES
Online Pre-Entry Deadline: July 15
Awards & Sponsors
First State Bank Nebraska - Sr. Division All-Stars Champion
Val Jean McKeever Memorial - Intermediate Division All-Stars Champion
Sponsor Needed - Jr. Division All-Stars Champion
Doug & Dianne Swanson - Champion Beginning Clothing Construction
Barkoudah Family- Champion Intermediate Clothing Construction, Reserve Champion Intermediate Clothing Construction
Doug & Dianne Swanson - Champion Advanced Clothing Construction
Gage County 4-H Council - Champion Clothing Theme Exhibit

CLOTHING 4-H THEME EXHIBITS - Division 218
Cream of the Crop
Non-Competitive
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Clothing project. Wearable garment or accessory. 
*C218001  Decorated Accessory             
*C218002  Decorated Hat
*C218003  Constructed Accessory
*C218004  Decorated Garment
*C218005  Exhibit of Choice
CLOTHING PROJECT INFORMATION
See “General Rules” on page 22 for project information. 
4-H All-Star Champion and Reserve Champion Awards - Age Divisions (4-H age January 1, 2026): Sr. Division- 14 and older; Int. Division- 11-13; Jr. Division- 8-10.
Nebraska State Fair: Classes are eligible for State Fair competition unless marked with an * which denotes COUNTY CLASS ONLY. All static exhibits selected for the State Fair must receive a purple ribbon at county fair judging. 
Label each exhibit with exhibitor’s name on back or bottom of exhibit. Label all pieces of an exhibit. 
Exhibits released Sunday, July 26. No premium money given if exhibits are removed before deadline. Remaining exhibits should be picked up Monday, July 27.
Garments may be made for self (4-H member) or another person. Limit one exhibit per class per exhibitor unless otherwise stated. Duplicate class acceptable if both exhibits are modeled.
Every clothing exhibit must be described on the appropriate entry tag accompanying it (for example: dark blue wool skirt and jacket, red and white figured blouse). Entry tag placement: as you look at the garment, place the entry tag securely using straight pins or safety pins on the right side of the garment and the hook of the hanger to the left. 
Each item entered as a clothing, knitting or crochet exhibit must have a label attached stating county, name, age, project name and class in which garment is entered and the number of years enrolled in the project exhibited. Wool entries must have the fiber content listed. Label each component of exhibit using safety pins or by basting.
Bring wearable exhibits on wire hangers or hangers with a swivel hook only. Exhibits not suitable for hanging should be entered in a self sealing plastic bag. Wool garments and garments with narrow straps hang better on other hangers (wooden or notched plastic hangers with a swivel hook). As you look at the garment, place the hook of the hanger to the left. Fasten skirts, shorts, and pants to skirt/pant hangers or safety pin on hanger.  Each piece should be entered on its own hanger. If more than one hanger is used for an entry, fasten hangers belonging to one exhibit together with twist ties or rubber bands. 
A Design Data Card must be included with all Beyond the Needle Classes C221003-C221008 and STEAM 2 and 3 up-cycled exhibits. The data card is available at http://go.unl.edu/ne4hclothing. If the data card is not included, the exhibit will be lowered one ribbon placing.
4-Her’s enrolled in clothing projects should continue their skill development. Once you have exhibited in a higher level, you are not eligible to exhibit in a lower level. Ex. Once you exhibit in STEAM Clothing 3, you are not eligible to exhibit in STEAM Clothing 2. 
Do NOT use copy-righted figures in or original decorating of clothing. You may, however, purchase fabric with it stamped on the fabric.

GENERAL CLOTHING - Division 219
Premium Category 6
C220001   Clothing Portfolio - Complete at least 4 different samples/activities from Chapter 2, 3 or 4 of manual. Exhibit in 8 1/2” x 11”, 3-ring binder. Include appropriate cover. Portfolio should build upon itself     each year (additional pages can be added each year, but should be dated.) See pages 9-11 in STEAM Clothing 2: Simply Sewing project manual for formatting.
C220002   Textile Science Scrapbook - Include at least 10 different textile samples. Use Textile Information Cards template on p. 39 in STEAM Clothing 2: Simply Sewing manual to identify fabric swatches. Exhibit in 8 1/2” x 11”, 3-ring binder. Include appropriate cover. Scrapbook should build upon itself each year (additional pages can be added each year, but should be dated.) See manual for fabric suggestions.
C220003   Sewing For Profit - Display what products you posted online and analyze the cost of goods purchased to determine the appropriate selling price for your product. See p. 161-167 in the STEAM 
Clothing 2: Simply Sewing project manual. Exhibit may be a note    book, poster or small display, not to exceed 22” x 30”.

BEYOND THE NEEDLE - Division 221
Premium Category 6
4-H member must show their original creativity. Kits are not acceptable. Iron-on appliqués are acceptable (for county fair only) if used a as base for further decorative details or designs. Design Data Card must be included with classes C221003 - C221008. 
C221001   Design Portfolio - A portfolio consisting of at least three design samples or activities. Refer to the project manual for ideas. The Portfolio should be placed in an 8 1/2” x 11”, 3-ring binder. Include appropriate cover. (Additional pages can be added each year but should be dated.) See pp. 14-16 in project manual for formatting.
C221002  Color Wheel - Create your own color wheel, complimentary color bar or color scheme using pp. 27-39 in the project manual. Exhibit     may be a notebook, poster or small display. Maximum size 22”x30”.
C221003   Embellishment Garment with Original Design - Create a garment using techniques as defined in the project manual. Designs are the original idea of the 4-H member using the elements and principles of design to make an original statement. Include Design Data Card.
C221004   Original Designed Fabric Yardage - Fabric yardage is designed using techniques such as those found in the manual. Other embellishments may be added. Exhibit consists of at least one yard of finished fabric. Include Design Data Card.
C221005   Item (garment or non-clothing item) Constructed From Original 
Designed Fabric - Fabric yardage is designed first, then an item is constructed from that fabric. Other embellishments  may be added. Include Design Data Card.
C221006   Textile Arts Garment or Accessory - a garment or accessory constructed using new unconventional materials. I.e. rubber bands,     plastic, duct tape, etc.  Include Design Data Card.
C221007   Fashion Accessory - Designed and/or constructed using elements and principles of design; can be textile or non-textile based. Ex: shoes, bracelets, scarves, flip flops, design on tennis shoes, etc. Include Design Data Card.  
C221008      Wearable Technology Garment or Accessory - Technology is integrated into the garment in some way. Ex: LEDs, charging capabilities, sensors, etc. Include Design Data Card.
*C221011  T-shirt - Decorated with new design element/s and technique/s
*C221012  Embellished Garment - Any surface embellishment that is applied to a purchased or constructed garment such as ribbon, lace, embroidery, appliqué, braid, buttons, fabric pieces.

STEAM CLOTHING 1: FUNDAMENTALS 
Division 220
Premium Category 6
Fabric must be medium weight wovens that will sew and press smoothly, flannel and fleece acceptable. Solid color fabrics or those having an overall print are acceptable. NO plaids, stripes, napped or jersey knit. Pattern must be simple without darts, set-in sleeves, or collars. Raglan or Kimono sleeves are acceptable.
*C220006  Simple Pants or Shorts    *C220011    Simple Top
*C220007  Simple Skirt        *C220012    Apron
*C220008  Laundry Bag        *C220013    Pillowcase (1 or 2)
*C220009  Totebag            *C220014    Pillow (patchwork,     *C220010  Other Simple Pattern stripe, solid)
*C220015  Sewing Kit - Include list of sewing notions and purpose for each; pp 12-17
*C220016  What’s the Difference - Exhibit notebook, poster small display sharing project comparison and price point. Include pictures, NO actual pillows. Maximum size 22” x 30”, pp. 118-119.

STEAM CLOTHING 2: SIMPLY SEWING 
Division 222
Premium Category 5
Entries must reflect at least one new skill learned from manual (See project manual skill-level list). Garments may be made from any woven or knit fabric appropriate to the garment’s design and should demonstrate skills beyond STEAM Clothing 1. A list of skills is available at https://go.unl.edu/ne4hclothing. Classes C222004-C222009 are not eligible for State Fair Fashion Show. Design Data Card must be included with classes C222003-C222004. 
C222001   Design Basics, Understanding Design Principles - Exhibit which shares a learning experience from pp. 17-20 of manual. Include answers to questions on page 20 of manual. May be a notebook, poster, or small display, not to exceed 22” x 30”.
C222002  Pressing Matters - Exhibit a ham or sleeve roll, from pages 21-25 “A Pressing Matter” in the STEAM Clothing 2 project manual. Include answers to lesson questions that are most appropriate.
C222003   Upcycled Garment - Create a garment from used textile based items. The original item must be redesigned using skills learned in STEAM Clothing 2 (not just decorated) in some way to create a new wearable piece of clothing. The finished garment must reflect at least one skill learned in project. A Design Data Card must be included with this project including a “before” picture no larger than 4.25” x 5.5”. 
C222004   Upcycled Clothing Accessory - Wearable accessory made from a used item. The original used item must be redesigned using skills learned in STEAM Clothing 2 (not just decorated) in some way to create a new wearable accessory. The finished garment must reflect at least one skill learned in this project. A Design Data Card must be included with this project including a “before” picture no larger than 4.25” x 5.5”. 
C222005   Textile Clothing Accessory - Constructed using at least one skill learned in project from material appropriate for STEAM 2. I.e. hat, bag, scarf, gloves. NO metal, plastic, paper or rubber base items     (i.e. barrettes, headbands, flips, duct tape)
C222006   Top (vest acceptable)
C222007   Bottom (pants or shorts)
C222008   Skirt
C222009   Lined or Unlined Jacket
C222010   Dress (not formal wear)
C222011   Romper or Jumpsuit
C222012   Two-Piece Outfit
C222013      Alter Your Pattern - Garment constructed from a significantly altered pattern. Include information sheet that describes: 1) how the pattern was altered or changed, 2) why the changes were needed/wanted. Appropriate skills for altering/designing a pattern in STEAM 2 include: moving darts, merging two patterns together, altering a pattern for a woven or knit material, adding a lining.
C222014      Garment Constructed from Sustainable or Unconventional (natural or synthetic Fibers) - Fabric/Fibers used in this garment have
to be manufactured/purchased, for example: bamboo, banana, corn husk, and recycled fibers.

STEAM CLOTHING 3: A STITCH FURTHER 
Division 223
Premium Category 3
Garment may be made from any pattern or fabric and should demonstrate sewing skills beyond STEAM 2. Entry consists of complete constructed garments only. Wool entries must have fiber content listed on identification label. Classes C223002-C223003 are not eligible for State Fair Fashion Show. A Design Card must be included with classes C223001-C223002.
C223001   Upcycled Garment - Create a garment from used textile based items. Original used item must be redesigned (not just decorated) in some way to create a new wearable piece of clothing. The finished garment must reflect at least one skill learned in project. A Design Data Card must be included with this project including a “before” picture no larger than 4.25” x 5.5”. 
C223002   Upcycled Clothing  Accessory - Wearable accessory made from a used item. Item used must be changed in some way in the redesign process. The finished accessory must reflect at least one skill learned in project. A Design Data Card must be included with this project including a “before” picture no larger than 4.25” x 5.5”. 
C223003   Textile Clothing Accessory - Constructed using at least one skill learned in project from materials appropriate for STEAM 3. Ex: hat, bag, scarf, gloves. NO metal, plastic, paper or rubber based items (i.e. barrettes, headbands, flips, duct tape)
C223004   Dress or Formal
C223005   Skirted Combination (skirt with shirt, vest or jacket OR jumper and shirt)
C223006   Pants or Shorts Combination (pants or shorts with shirt, vest or jacket)
C223007   Romper or Jumpsuit
C223008   Specialty Wear (swim wear, costumes, hunting gear or chaps)
C223009   Lined or Unlined Jacket (non-tailored)
C223010   Coat, Blazer, Suit Jacket, Outerwear (tailored blazer or suit jacket or coat). Wool entries must have fiber content listed on identification label
C223011      Alter/Design Your Pattern - Include information sheet that describes: 1) how the pattern was altered or changed, 2) why the changes were needed/wanted. Appropriate skills for altering/designing a pattern in STEAM 3 include: moving darts, adding a zipper, merging two patterns together, altering a pattern for a woven or knit material, adding a lining, designing your own pattern.
C223012      Garment Constructed from Sustainable or Unconventional (natural or synthetic Fibers)  Fabric/Fibers used in this garment have to be manufactured/purchased, for example: bamboo, banana, corn husk, and recycled fibers.
KNITTING AND CROCHET INFORMATION
The purpose of this category is to establish basic to advanced crochet and knitting skills. In addition, projects in this category require 4-H’ers to select adequate yarn and make design decisions. Every exhibit must be described on the appropriate entry tag accompanying it (for example: blue afghan, yellow sweater, crocheted gray elephant). Attach the entry tag securely to the exhibit using straight pin or safety pins (no paper clips). Each item entered as a knitting or crochet exhibit must have a label attached stating: County, Exhibitor’s name and age, project name and class in which exhibit is entered, and the number of years enrolled in the project exhibited. Wool entries must have the fiber content listed on the identification label. Attach a label on every component of the exhibit using safety pins or by basting. Not responsible for unlabeled items. Garments as listed may be made for self (4-H member) or another person. All knitted and crocheted items will be displayed together or by county. 4-H’ers enrolled in knitted and crocheted projects should continue their skill development. Once you have exhibited in a higher level, you are not eligible to exhibit in a lower level. Ex. Once you exhibit in Knitting Level 3, you are not eligible to exhibit in Knitting Level 2.
*NEW: Fiber Arts Data cards for Knitting and Crochet are now required to be included and attached to the project. The data card can be picked up at the Extension Office or found on the Gage County Fair resources tab on our website gage.unl.edu.

KNITTING - Division 225
Level 1 (first year in project) - Premium Category 6
Level 2 (second year in project) - Premium Category 6
Level 3 (third or more years in project) - Premium Category 5
Premium Category 7
*C225010      Loom Knitted Garment - Shrugs, sweater, etc.
*C225011      Loom Knitted Home Accessory - Baby blanket, afghan, dish cloths, etc.
*C225012      Loom Knitted Fashion Accessory - Hat, mittens, scarf, hair accessory, etc.
*C225013      Loom Knitted Doll or Stuffed Animal
*C225014      Loom Knitted Exhibit of Choice
*C225015      Finger Knitted Exhibit                                                             
Non-Competitive
*C225016    Rainbow Loom Fashion Accessory - Bracelet, rings, necklace, hat, purse, etc.
*C225017    Rainbow Loom Charms
*C225018    Rainbow Loom Miniatures
*C225019    Rainbow Loom Original Design - Indicate number of bands & source of pattern 
Knitting Project Information - Criteria for judging: Design and color, neatness, knitting mechanics, trimmings, construction finishes. Exhibits must include the following information on the fiber arts data card - knitting:
1)     Why did you choose to create this exhibit?
2)     What steps did you take as you created this exhibit?
3)     What were the most important things you learned?
4)     Gauge - Number of rows per inch; number of stitches per inch
5)     Kind of yarn - weight and fiber content 
6)     Names of stitches used

Level 1
*C225020  Level 1 Knitted Slippers
*C225021  Level 1 Knitted Head Coverings - Bands, Scarf, Hat
*C225022  Level 1 Knitted Mittens (not gloves)
*C225023  Level 1 Knitted Simple Pillow
*C225024  Level 1 Knitted Dish Cloth/Towel
*C225025  Level 1 Arm/Finger Knitted Item
*C225026  Level 1 Loom Knitted Item
Level 2
C225001      Level 2 Knitted Clothing - Item or garment using pattern stitches such as diamond, block, twist or seed/moss stitches. Basic     stitches (including: Knit (K), Purl (P), Slip Knit Pass Over (SKPO),     Knit Two Together (K2tog), Yarn Over (yo) to form patterns.
C225002      Level 2 Knitted Home Environment Item - Item using basic stitches [including: Knit (K), Purl (P), Slip Knit Pass Over (SKPO), Knit Two Together (K2tog), Yarn Over (yo) to form patterns.
C225003      Level 2 Arm or Finger Knitted Item
C225004      Level 2 Loom Knitted Item
Level 3
C225005      Level 3 Knitted Clothing - Item or garment made from advanced knitting stitches such as pass slip stitch over, double-pointed needle knitting, cable, Turkis, tamerna, plait, germaine, feather and fan or knitting with one or more patterns such as Aran or Fair Isle. Made by using stitches learned in Level 2 while advancing to circular knitting, double pointed needle knitting, knitting with multiple pattern stitches, and changing colors throughout the garment such as argyle knitting and chart knitting.
C225006      Level 3 Knitted Home Environment Item - Knitted item made by using stitches learned in Level 2 while advancing to circular knitting, double pointed needle knitting, knitting with multiple pattern stitches, and changing colors throughout the garment such as argyle knitting and chart knitting.
C225007      Level 3 Machine Knitting

CROCHET - Division 226
Level 1 (first year in project) - Premium Category 6
Level 2 (second year in project) - Premium Category 6
Level 3 (third or more years in project) - Premium Category 5
Criteria for judging crochet: Design and color, neatness, crochet mechanics, trimmings, construction finishes. Exhibit must include the following information on the fiber arts data card - crochet:
1)     Why did you choose to create this exhibit?
2)     What steps did you take as you created this exhibit?
3)     What were the most important things you learned?
4)     Gauge and size of hook or type of crocheting tool
5)     Kind of yarn - weight and fiber content or other material used
6)     Names of stitches used

Level 1
*C226005  Level 1 Crochet Slippers
*C226006  Level 1 Crochet Head Coverings - Bands, Scarf, Hat
*C226007  Level 1 Crochet Simple Pillow
*C226008  Level 1 Crochet Dish Cloth/Towel
Level 2
C226001      Level 2 Crocheted Clothing - Garment using basic stitches [including: chain, single, double, half-double, treble] to form patterns.]
C226002      Level 2 Crocheted Home Environment Item - Item using basic stitches [including: chain, single, double, half-double, treble] to form patterns.
Level 3
C226003      Level 3 Crocheted Clothing - Garment using stitches learned in Level 2 while advancing to use afghan stitch, broomstick lace, hairpin lace, design motifs, and multiple pattern stitches.
C226004      Level 3 Crocheted Home Environment Item - Item using stitches learned in Level 2 while advancing to use afghan stitch, broomstick lace, hairpin lace, design motifs, and multiple pattern stitches.

SHOPPING IN STYLE - Division 240
Premium Category 5
Entry is a poster (14” x 22”), 3-ring binder (8 1/2” x 11” x 1), or video (less than 5 minutes and able to be played on a PC using Windows Media Player, Real Player or Quick Time Player). Folders with or without fasteners should not be used and entries will be lowered a ribbon placing.
C240001   Best Buy for Your Buck (ages 9-13 as of January 1, 2026) - Provide details of  the best buy you made for your buck this year.     Consider building the ultimate wardrobe by adding this entry each year by dividing it into Year 1, Year 2, Year 3, etc. Exhibit story in binder or video (no posters). Provide details about wardrobe inventory which indicates why you selected the garment you did, clothing budget, cost of garment, and a conclusion or summary statement/s stating your final comments on why you selected your     “best buy for your buck”.  Provide 3 color photos of you wearing the garment (front, side, back views). Do not include the Shopping In Style Fashion Show Written Report with Narration Form SF184 in your entry.
C240002   Best Buy for Your Buck (ages 14-18 as of January 1, 2026) Provide details of the best buy you made for your buck this year. Consider building the ultimate wardrobe by adding this entry each year by dividing it into Year 1, Year 2, Year 3,  etc. Exhibit story in binder or video (no posters). Include details about body shape  discussion, construction quality details, design features that affected your selection, cost per wearing, care of garment, and a conclusion or summary statement/s stating your final comments on why you selected your “best buy for your buck”. Provide 3 color photos of you wearing the garment (front, side, back views).
C240003   Revive Your Wardrobe - Take a least two items that still fit but that you don’t wear anymore and pair them with a new garment or garments to make them wearable again. Create a photo story that includes before and after pictures and a description of what was done. Exhibit in a binder, poster or video.
C240004   Show Me Your Colors - Select 6-8 color photos of you wearing different colors. Half of item should be what you consider to be a good personal color choices and half should be poor personal color choices. Write a brief explanation with each photo describing your selections. Refer to manual p. 23 for information. Exhibit on a poster.
C240005   Clothing 1st Aid Kit - Refer to manual p. 73 and complete a clothing first aid kit. Include a list of items in the kit and a brief discussion of why each was included. Exhibit in appropriately sized box or tote with a lid, no larger than a shoe box.
C240006   Mix, Match & Multiply - Using the concept from manual p. 32, take at least five pieces of clothing and create new outfits. Use your imagination to show various looks (I.e. on a clothes line, in a tree, on a mannequin). Include a brief discussion of each outfit which demonstrates what you learned by completing this entry. Exhibit in a binder, poster or video.
 

Home Design & Restoration

HOME DESIGN & RESTORATION
4-H THEME EXHIBITS - 
Division 250
Cream of the Crop
Non-Competitive
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Home Design & Restoration project. Must be home accessory. NO clothing.                  
*C250001  Theme Room Accessory
*C250002  “Cream of the Crop” Home Accessory
*C250003  Holiday Accessory/Wall Hanging
*C250004  Exhibit of Choice

HOME DESIGN & RESTORATION PROJECT INFORMATION
See “General Rules” on page 22 for project information. 
4-H All-Star Champion and Reserve Champion Awards - Age Divisions (4-H age January 1, 2026): Sr. Division- 14 and older; Int. Division- 11-13; Jr. Division- 8-10.
Nebraska State Fair: Classes are eligible for State Fair competition unless marked with an * which denotes COUNTY CLASS ONLY. All static exhibits selected for the State Fair must receive a purple ribbon at county fair judging. 
Label each exhibit with exhibitor’s name on back or bottom of exhibit. Label all pieces of an exhibit. 
Exhibits released Sunday, July 26. No premium money given if exhibits are removed before deadline. Remaining exhibits should be picked up Monday, July 27.      
The purpose of Home Environment is to learn design principles and develop graphic design techniques. In addition, activities in this category encourage well-thought-out design plans and diverse artistic techniques. 
Items must be designed for home decorating, home furnishing, or home management.  NO clothing, purses, note cards, scrapbooks, photo albums, etc. Accessories should be high quality, suitable for use in the home several months throughout the year. Holiday specific items are discouraged. Exhibits made from kits are also discouraged as kits limit decision making in the design process.
Items should show creativity and originality, along with the application of design elements and principles. Youth are required to include the design elements and principles they used, along with simple explanation of how they designed their project with their exhibit. Information on the elements and principles of design may be found in the Design Decisions manual, as well as Portfolio Pathways and Sketchbook Crossroads.  
Enter in correct class: What medium was changed or manipulated?  What medium is the majority of exhibit made from? 
Exhibits may be no taller than 7 feet and no wider than 6 feet. All exhibits must be easily lifted by two 4-H staff.
Items should be ready for display in the home (pictures framed, wall hangings and pictures ready to hang, etc.) No single mat board or artist canvas panels allowed. Wrapped canvas (if staples are not visible on edge) is accepted without framing. Be sure hangers are strong enough to 
support the item. Command strips are not adequate hangers.
Exhibits using copyrighted materials, such as cartoon characters or commercial product names are NOT eligible for State Fair. Exhibits made from prepackaged kits will NOT be accepted at State Fair but are allowed at County Fair. Kits are defined as any prepackaged item where materials and the design are predetermined by the manufacturer. Indicate on entry tag if exhibit is original design or if a kit or pattern was used.
An entry tag which includes a clear description of the entry must be securely attached to each Home Design & Restoration exhibit. Use color, pattern or picture descriptions to aid in identification. No straight pins. If an exhibit includes several small parts or pieces, exhibit together in self-sealing bag. In addition to the entry tag, a label with the exhibitor’s name and county should be attached to each separate piece of the exhibit.
Supporting information is required for all Home Design & Restoration exhibits. Information must include elements or principles of design used and steps taken to complete project. Tags located at Extension Office or gage.unl.edu. Exhibits without supporting information will be dropped a ribbon placing. 
Information must include elements and principles of design used and steps taken to complete project.

DESIGN MY PLACE - Division 251
Premium Category 7
*C251300    Contain Yourself - A Storage Solution
*C251301    Needlework Item
*C251302    Fabric Accessory - i.e. pillow, laundry bag, pillow case, table runner
*C251303    Accessory made with Original Batik or Tie Dye
*C251304    Accessory made with Wood
*C251305    Accessory made with Plastic
*C251306    Accessory made with Glass
*C251307    Accessory made with Clay
*C251308    Accessory made with Paper
*C251309    Accessory made with Metal Tooling or Metal Punch
*C251310    Storage Item Recycled/Up-cycled
*C251311    Bulletin or Message Board
*C251312    Stamping - Exhibit 3 examples
*C251313    Handmade Bath Salts, Lotion, Scrub, Soap, Linen Spray, etc.
*C251314    Problem Solved - Use a creative method to show you solved a  problem (air quality, water, sound, temperature, lighting, fire escape plan, etc.)
*C251315    Duck Tape Home Accessory, Desk Accessory, etc.
*C251316    Exhibit of Choice

DESIGN DECISIONS - Division 257
Premium Category 7
*State Fair classes must attach supporting information to explain steps taken and element or principle of design.
C257001   Design Board for a Room - Include color scheme, wall treatment, floor treatment, etc., OR floor plan for a room. Posters, 22” x 28” or multimedia presentation (on CD). Show what you learned with     before and after pictures or diagrams, samples, story, cost comparisons, optional arrangements, etc.
C257002   Problem Solved, Energy Savers, OR Career Exploration - Identify a problem (i.e: problem windows, storage needs, inconvenient
room arrangement, cost comparison, energy conservation, waste management, etc.) OR explore a career related to home environment (what would it be, what education is needed, what would you do, etc.) Using poster, notebook, multimedia presentation (on CD) or other method, describe problem and how to solve OR your career exploration.
C257003   Solar, Wind, or Other Energy Alternatives for the Home - Can be models, either an original creation or adaption of kit. If kit, label and explain what was learned and how the item could be used in or on exterior of home.
C257004   Technology in Design – Incorporate technology into a project related to home design or use technology to develop the design; for example, using conductive thread to create a circuit that enhances a wall hanging or create the design with a 3D printer.
Premium Category 5
C257006   Window Covering - Curtains, draperies, shades, shutters, etc.
C257007   Floor Covering - May be woven, braided, painted floor cloth, etc. 
C257008   Bedcover - Quilt, comforter, bedspread, dust ruffle, canopy, etc. For a quilt, state who did the quilting. No tied fleece blankets. See pg. 50-53
C257009    Accessory - Original Needlework/Stitchery
C257010    Accessory - Textile - 2D (table cloth or runner, dresser scarf, wall hanging, etc.) No tied fleece blankets or beginning level 10 minute table runners.
C257011    Accessory - Textile - 3 Dimensional (pillows, pillow shams, fabric bowls, etc.)
C257012    Accessory - 2 Dimensional
C257013    Accessory - 3D (string art, wreaths, etc.)
C257014    Accessory - Original Floral Design
Determine entry/class by what medium was manipulated: 
C257015    Accessory - Original made from wood (burn, cut, shape or  otherwise manipulate); Ex:  Wood Door Hanger
C257016    Accessory - Original made from glass (etch, mosaic, stain, molten, or otherwise manipulate)
C257017    Accessory - Original made from metal (cut, shape, punch, sculpt, reassemble, or otherwise manipulate)
C257018    Accessory - Original made from ceramic or tile (treatment to exhibit must go through process that permanently alters the medium; painting alone is not sufficient)
C257019    Accessory - Recycled/Upcycled Item for the Home, reusing a common object or material in a creative way. Include description of what was done to recycle or reuse item in attached information.
C257020   Furniture - Recycled/Remade, made or finished by using a common object or material in a creative way. Include description of what was done to recycle or reuse item in attached information.
C257021   Furniture -  Wood Opaque finish such as paint or enamel
C257022   Furniture - Wood Clear finish showing wood grain
C257023   Furniture - Fabric Covered - Stool, chair seat, slip-covers, headboard, etc.
C257024   Furniture - Outdoor Living - Made/refurbished by 4-H member for outdoor use. Include description of what was done to recycle or reuse item in attached information (may be displayed outside at         State Fair).
C257025    Accessory - Outdoor Living - Made/refurbished by 4-H member for outdoor use. Include description of what was done to recycle or reuse in attached information. (may be displayed outside at State Fair)
*C257026  Wall Hanging for Kitchen or Bath - 2 or 3 Dimensional
*C257027  Wall Hanging for Living/Dining Room - 2 or 3 Dimensional
*C257028  Wall Hanging for Your Bedroom - 2 or 3 Dimensional

VISUAL ARTS - Division 260
VISUAL ARTS PROJECT INFORMATION
With an emphasis on originality, the purpose of the Visual Arts projects is to practice using design elements and principles while exploring and experimenting with various mediums and techniques. In addition, youth should practice self-expression and work to communicate their personal voice through their work. Be sure to take note of the rules section to develop a successful project. By completing supporting documentation, youth will examine their choices and demonstrate an understanding of the elements of art and principles of design.
Original Work - Items must be the original work of the 4-H member and should show creativity and originality. No copyrighted images or master studies.
All exhibits must be presented appropriately for the medium(s) used and ready to be professionally displayed. 2-Dimensional pieces on paper should be framed behind glass/plexiglass. Canvas boards should be framed but glass/plexiglass is not necessary. Stretched canvases do not need frames as long as staples are not visible on the edges. All 2-dimensional pieces should be read to hang using a sawtooth or wire hanger.
Entry Descriptions: Entry tags should include a visual description of the exhibit, including, size, dominant color and subject to aid in identification.
Supporting Information: Supporting information is required for all Visual Arts exhibits. Information must include responses to all questions and steps taken to complete the project. Supporting information must be securely attached to the back of the piece. Supporting Information tag templates can be found at https://go.unl.edu/ne4hvisualarts. Exhibits without supporting information will be dropped a ribbon placing.
Premium Category 5
Visual Art Mediums
C260001   Original Acrylic Painting
C260002   Original Oil Painting
C260003   Original Watercolor Painting
C260004   Original Pencil Drawing
C260005   Original Charcoal Drawing
C260006   Original Ink Drawing
C260007   Original Fiber Art - Could include weaved art, dyed fabric, felted wool, cotton linter, batik, etc.
C260008   Original Sculpture - Could include styrofoam, wood, cardboard, paper, metal, wire, etc.
C260009   Original Ceramic Pottery - No purchased ceramic pottery. Must be glazed and fired. May be any hand-built technique or wheel-thrown. May be functional or non-functional. Could include slab-built, pinch pots, coil built, wheel thrown, etc.
C260010   Original Paint on Purchased Ceramic Surface - No hand-built or wheel thrown pottery. May be functional or non-functional. Could include figurines, cups, bowls, etc.
C260011   Original Single Media Not Listed - Could include digital art, leathercrafting, print making, stained glass, pastels, scratchboard, sand painting, encaustic painting, chalk, etc.
C260012   Original Mixed Media - Could include any combination of two or more other mediums or materials.
Visual Art Themes
Rules: Exhibits may utilize any medium or combination of mediums on any surface. All exhibits must be appropriately presented and ready to be professionally displayed. Artwork should depict the artist’s own interpretation of the theme. All exhibits should include an explanation of how the piece reflects the theme and what ideas or thoughts the artist was attempting to express or communicate.
C261001   Original Art Inspired by Plants or Animals - could involve but is not limited to domestic animals, pets, agriculture, wild animals, wildlife  conservation, house plants, fruit, vegetables, flowers, native plants, trees, etc.
C261002   Original Art Inspired by Landscapes - could involve but is not limited to rural landscapes, natural environments, man-made environments, urban landscapes, extraterrestrial landscapes, oceanic scenes, buildings, fantasy landscapes, agricultural  landscapes, etc.
C261003   Original Art Inspired by People - could involve but is not limited to cultural art, modern society, portraits, daily life, careers, families, emotions, etc.
C261004   Original Art Inspired by Artist’s Choice - could involve but is not  limited to food, cars, fantasy worlds, imaginary characters, science-fiction, history, etc.

HEIRLOOM TREASURES/FAMILY KEEPSAKES Division 256
Premium Category 3
Project area is for items with historic, sentimental or antique value that are restored, re-purposed or refinished to keep their original look and value. It is not for “recycled” items. Ex. a bench would be considered an heirloom if the original finish is restored, but if decorated by painting it would be considered recycled. Project resources on the 4-H website.
Supporting Information: Attach information including: 1) List steps taken to complete project. Include before and after pictures and element or principle of design used. 2) Keepsakes documentation; How you acquired the item and the history of the item - may be written, pictures, audio or video tape of interview with family member, etc.
C256001   Trunk - including doll-sized trunk or wardrobe
C256002   Article - Either a repurposed “treasure” (accessory) from an old item or an old “treasure” (accessory) refinished or renovated. May     include a display of a collection or collectibles, being careful not to destroy value of the collection.
C256003   Furniture - Either a repurposed “treasure” from an old item or an old “treasure” refinished or renovated. May include doll -sized     furniture.
C256004   Cleaned and Restored Heirloom Accessory of Furniture - A cleaned and reconditioned old piece of furniture or accessory that is functional for use or  display. Item should be complexity suited for an advanced project. Item might be cleaned and waxed, and simple repairs made. Item would not have to be refinished or repainted, by reconditioned to restore it to its original look or to prevent it from further damage as a valuable heirloom. Consult Extension Publication “Care and Conservation of Heirloom Textiles” (G1682). This publication can be found in the Digitial Commons at: https://go.unl.edu/gcnh (Refinished items go in classes 2 – 3.) This class is for situations where it may be best to do very little to the item to maintain its antique value. Item or article should be of complexity suited to an advanced project. 
Premium Category 7
*C256005  Heirlooms/Antiques Documentation - Document with a short description and photo your family heirlooms/antiques. Exhibit in clear plastic report cover or notebook/journal.
*C256006  Exhibit of Choice, Essay, Poster 14”x22”, Educational notebook, display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 8 1/2” x 11” sheet describing exhibit and summary of learning.

QUILT QUEST - Division 229
Award Sponsor: Quilt Stitches
In Quilt Quest, 4-H members learn skills as they progress through the project. The least experienced 4-H member will select fabric, cut, and sew together only squares or rectangles in making the quilt top. They may have additional guidance in piecing the quilt block and layering together the quilt top, inner batting and the quilt bottom. Another person can do the quilting for them.
Premium Category 5
C229010   Exploring Quilts - Illustrate some aspect of quilts or quilt making. Ex: language arts, quilts of different cultures, chemistry, design, preservation, history, construction, math-conversion of quilt patterns, textiles/fabrics, computerization, and entrepreneurship. History may include history of an old quilt or history/research of a particular style of quilt, such as Baltimore album quilts, or Amish quilts. Exhibit may be a 14”x22” poster, notebook or the use of a digital platform. All items in an exhibit must be attached together and labeled. NO quilted items.
C229020   Quilt Designs Other Than Fabric- Two or three dimensional item with quilt design made using medium other than fabric. Ex: stained glass, paper, wire, tile, canvas, paint, etc.  Include Supporting Information:  Elements or principles of design used and steps taken to complete project.
Premium Category 3
A Barn Quilt is a large piece of wood that is painted to look like a quilt block.  Include Supporting Information (use Home Environment information sheet): Elements or principles of design used and steps taken to complete project.
C229021   Barn Quilt – Size less than 4’ x 4’ 
C229022   Barn Quilt – Size larger than 4’ x 4’
Premium Category 5
C229030   Computer Exploration- Notebook or poster with a minimum of six computer generated quilt designs or color variations on a quilt design. Include information on type of program used, process used to generate designs, or how you used color to create different quilt designs. Size of poster or notebook to be suitable for the exhibit.
Premium Category 3
C229040   Wearable Art - Quilted clothing or accessory must have a recognizable amount of quilting and may include fabric manipulation. Quilting must be done by 4-H member. On a half sheet of 8 1/2”x11” paper, tell how you selected the design and     fabrics, including whether or not you used a kit, jelly roll, charm squares, etc.
C229041   Intergenerational Quilt- A quilt made by a 4-H member and 
family members or friends of different generations. On a half-sheet, 8 1/2”x11” paper, include explanation answering the following questions: A) How was the quilt planned and who did what in the     construction of the quilt? B) How did you select the design and fabrics, including whether or not you used a kit, jelly roll, charm squares, etc. C) What did you learn that you can use on your next project?
C229042   Service Project Quilt- A quilt constructed by a 4-H member or group to be donated to a worthy cause. On a half sheet, 8 1/2”x11”     paper, include an explanation answering the following questions: 
A) Why was the quilt constructed and who will receive the donated     quilt? B) How did you select the design and fabrics used, including     whether or not you used a kit, jelly roll, charm squares, etc.? C) What did you do and what was done by others? D)  What did you learn that you can use on your next project?

Quilt Guidelines for classes #C229050-C229083
A quilted exhibit is made up of at least 3 layers. Exhibit must be quilted or tied through all layers. Exhibit must be quilted (machine or hand), or tied. Fleece blankets are not eligible in this division. All quilt piecing and finishing must be the sole work of the 4-H member. Quilting, whether machine or hand quilted, may be done by another individual except for the Premier Quilt class. Wall quilts must have a hanging sleeve on the back of the quilt, or some method for hanging. Quilt exhibits must be clean and finished for intended purpose. 
Exhibitor may choose fabrics for the quilt by selecting from fabric bolts. Youth may also use “fabric collections” by manufacturers in a particular designer or fabric line. Examples:
Jelly Rolls are made of/up to 40 different strips of 2 ½” wide fabric laying on top of one another and rolled up to look like a jelly roll. Fabric is created by one designer or fabric line and compliments each other. In many cases, less skilled exhibitors find it difficult to cut narrow strips with a rotary cutter and ruler, so this fabric selection may make it easier to learn.
Honey Buns are made like the Jelly Rolls with 1 ½” strips of fabrics.
Layer Cakes are 10” squares of fabric from a manufactured designer or fabric line with different pieces of fabric “layered” on top of one another to look like a piece of cake.
Charm Packs are made of 5” squares of coordinating fabric and may be tied up with a string or scrap of fabric.
Candies are 2 ½” squares of fabric from a manufactured designer or fabric line.
Turnover is a collection of coordinating fabrics that are cut into 6” triangles.
Fat Quarters are ½ yard cuts of fabric which are cut in half to make a rectangle that is approximately 18” x 21”.  (One half yard of fabric yields 2 fat quarters). The “fat quarter” can be more economical to purchase for a smaller quilt because the purchaser does not have to buy the entire yardage width.
Fabric Kit is a collection of fabrics cut in large pieces to accommodate the requirements of a particular quilt pattern.  Exhibitor must cut out all of the smaller squares, rectangles, etc. to make the quilt top according to pattern directions.  
After fabric selection, youth can use a variety tools for cutting the fabric and completing the quilt. Cutting into pattern pieces may include hand roller die cutting machines that cut particular shapes which can be appliqued to fabric. This is allowed in the construction of the quilt.
Labeling: Quilts must have a permanent label on the back in the bottom right corner with quilter’s name and date of completion. Attach entry cards and support information using safety pin/s. NO straight pins. No pre-quilted fabric. No fleece blankets.
Supporting information: On a half sheet of 8 1/2”x11” paper, include an explanation answering the following questions: A) How did you select the design and fabrics, including whether or not you used a kit, jelly roll, charm squares, etc.? B) What did you do and what was done by others? C) What did you learn that you can use in your next project?

Premium Category 2
Pieced Quilt Exhibit Sizes:
Small: length + width = less than 60”- miniature quilt, wall hanging, table runner, placemats (4), pillow; must be quilted. Pillow must have a quilted
top, not just pieced patchwork.
Medium: length + width = 61” to 120”
Large: length + width = over 120”
Level 1 Quilted Exhibit - Pieced quilts made up of squares and/or rectangles.
C229050  Small
C229051  Medium
C229052  Large
Level 2 Quilted Exhibit - In addition to squares and/or rectangles, quilt may have triangles, and/or may be embroidered.
C229060  Small
C229061  Medium
C229062  Large
Level 3 Quilted Exhibit - In addition to any of the methods in Level 1 & Level 2 classes, quilt may have curved piecing, appliqué, Celtic style, stained glass style, paper piercing, art quilt style, or other non-traditional styles. (An art quilt is an original exploration of a concept or idea rather than the handing down of a “pattern”.  It experiments with textile manipulation, color, texture, and/or a diversity of mixed media.  An art quilt often pushes quilt world boundaries) or other non-traditional styles. 
C229070  Small
C229071  Medium
C229072  Large
Premier Quilt -   Entire quilt is the sole work of the 4-H member, including quilting (hand or machine). Tied quilts are not eligible for this class. The youth may receive guidance but no one else may work on the quilt. Exhibitor has developed skills to do all of the work by himself/herself, including pattern and fabric selection, cutting and sewing individual pieces, layering the quilt top/batting/backing together, and quilting. Quilting may be done by hand, by sewing machine or by a commercial-grade quilting machine. After quilting, exhibitor must finish the quilt by “squaring it up”, sew binding on the edge, and placing a label on the quilt which provides details about the quilt making process for historical purposes. 
C229080  Hand Quilted
C229081  Sewing Machine Quilted
C229082  Long Arm Quilted - non-computerized/hand guided
C229083  Long Arm Quilted - computerized

Family Life

PROJECT INFORMATION
See “General Rules” on page 22 for project information. 
4-H All-Star Champion and Reserve Champion Awards - Age Divisions (4-H age January 1, 2026): Sr. Division- 14 and older; Int. Division- 11-13; Jr. Division- 8-10.
Nebraska State Fair: Classes are eligible for State Fair competition unless marked with an * which denotes COUNTY CLASS ONLY. All static exhibits selected for the State Fair must receive a purple ribbon at county fair judging. 
Label each exhibit with exhibitor’s name on back or bottom of exhibit. Label all pieces of an exhibit. 
Exhibits released Sunday, July 26. No premium money given if exhibits are removed before deadline. Remaining exhibits should be picked up Monday, July 27.

SAFETY/FIRST AID - Division 440
Premium Category 4
In this category 4-H members have the opportunity to create exhibits about all-terrain vehicles, fire, and tractor safety. In addition, participants can also create informational exhibits about basic safety strategies. Through involvement in this category, 4-H members will be better educated about personal safety and have the knowledge base to educate others about safety.
E440001   First Aid Kit - First aid kit is a good way to organize supplies in
an emergency. Assemble in a container appropriate for use in a home. Description of where the kit will be stored and examples of specific emergencies for that situation should be included  in the exhibit. Kit should include a written inventory and purpose statement for included items. Items should cover the following areas: airway and breathing, bleeding control, burn treatment, infectious disease protection, fracture care and miscellaneous supplies. See Citizen Safety Manual, 4-H425, pp. 6-7 Note: Kit containing any of the following will be disqualified.1) Prescription medications. If the purpose of the kit is to provide medication for someone with special needs, explain in written description and inventory, but remove the medication. 2) Materials with expiration dates on or before the judging date. This includes sterile items, non-prescription\medications, ointments, salves, etc. Materials dated month and year only are considered expired on the last day of that month. 3) Any controlled substance.
E440002      Specific Purpose First Aid Kit - A first aid kit is a good way to 
organize supplies in an emergency in a variety situations and locations. The kit should be assembled in a container appropriate for the kit’s intended purpose. Examples could include a kit for a vehicle, recreational vehicle, boat, livestock building, camping etc. A description of where the kit will be stored and examples of specific emergencies expected for that location should be included in the exhibit. The kit should include a written inventory and purpose statement for included items. Items included should be relevant to the kit’s intended purpose. Consider items needed to cover the following areas of first aid: airway and breathing, bleeding control, burn treatment, infectious disease
E440003    Disaster Kit (Emergency Preparedness) - Kit must contain the 
materials to prepare a person/family for emergency conditions caused by a natural or man-made incident. Selection of materials is     left to the exhibitor. Family or group kits must have enough material or items for each person. A description of the kit’s purpose, the number of people supported and a list of contents is required. 4-H member is encouraged to test their kit by challenging their family to try to survive using only the included materials for a designated time. If tested, share that experience in kit documentation. Include an explanation of drinking water needs for your disaster kit. Do not bring actual water in the kit.
Premium Category 7
E440004   Safety Scrapbook - Include 15 news articles from print and/
or internet sources about various incident types. Mount each clipping on a separate page accompanied by a description of events leading to the incident and any measures that might have prevented it. Scrapbook should be bound in a standard size hardcover binder/note book for 8 1/2” x 11” paper. Correct sentence structure, readability, thorough explanations are an important part     of judging.
E440005  Safety Experiences - Exhibit should share a learning experience the exhibitor had related to safety. (I.e. participating in a first aid or first responder training, farm safety day camp, babysitting workshop or similar event, scientific experience related to safety; or the youth’s response to an emergency situation. Exhibit should include a detailed description of the experience, the exhibitor’s role, some evidence of the exhibitor’s leadership in the situation and a summary of the learning that took place. Exhibits may be presented in a poster with supplemental documentation, a notebook including up to 10 pages of narrative and pictures, or a multimedia presentation, maximum 5 minutes.
E440006    Career in Safety - Exhibit should identify a specific career area in the safety field and include education and certification required for     available positions, salary information, demand for the field and a  summary of the exhibitor’s interest in the field. Examples of careers include: firefighters, paramedics, emergency management personnel, some military assignments, law enforcement offices, emergency room medical personnel, fire investigator and more. It is recommended exhibitor interview a professional in the field in their research. Additional research sources might include books, articles, career websites, job-related government websites or interview with career placement or guidance counselors. Exhibit may be presented in a poster with supplemental documentation, a notebook including up to 10 pages of narrative and pictures, or a multimedia presentation, maximum 5 minutes.
*E440006  Exhibit of Choice- Poster - 14”x22”,  educational notebook, display, collection of  materials that relate to project. Include 81/2”x11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning.

FIRE SAFETY - Division 450
Premium Category 7
E450001   Fire Safety Poster - Home floor plan drawn to scale showing primary and secondary escape routes and where fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are located. Draw every room, including all doors and windows. Use black or blue arrows showing primary escape routes from each room Use red arrows showing secondary routes to use if the primary routes are blocked. Primary and secondary escape routes must lead outside to an assembly location. Documentation should include evidence of the escape plan has been practiced at least four items.. Poster must be constructed of poster board at least 11” x 14” but not larger than 22” x 28”.
E450002   Fire Safety Scrapbook - Must contain 10 news articles from print and/or internet sources about fires to residential or commercial properties or landscapes. Mount each clipping on a separate page accompanied by a description of events leading to the incident and any measures that might have prevented it. Scrapbook should be bound in a standard size hardcover binder or notebook for  8 1/2” x 11” paper. Correct sentence structure, readability and thorough explanations are part of judging.
E450003   Fire Prevention Poster - Promote a fire prevention message appropriate to display during National Fire Prevention Week or to promote fire safety at specific times of the year (Halloween, 4th of July, etc.). Originality, clarity and artistic impression will be judged. Do not include live fireworks, matches or other flammable/explosive/hazardous materials. Poster must be constructed of commercial poster board at least 11” x 14”, but no larger than 22” x 28”.
*E450004  Exhibit of Choice, Educational notebook, Poster - 14”x22”, 
display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 8 1/2” x 11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning.

HERITAGE - Division 101
4-H THEME EXHIBITS
Cream of the Crop
Non-Competitive
Open to any 4-H member enrolled in Heritage project. Exhibits are a notebook, scrapbook, album, or poster 14”x22”.        
*A100001  Nebraska Heritage Display/Exhibit    
*A100002  Gage County Fair History                    
*A100003  Family Photos Collection
*A100004  Exhibit of Choice

HERITAGE PROJECT INFORMATION
The purpose of the 4-H Heritage project is to acquire knowledge, develop a connection to the past and share the story of a 4-H member’s heritage and history around them. An exhibit may include items, pictures, maps, charts, recordings, drawings, illustrations, writings or displays that depict the heritage of the member’s family or community or 4-H history. Displays should not be larger than 22” x 28” wide. Display collections securely in an attractive container no larger than 22” x 28”. Exhibits must include name, county, age, and past experience (years in projects) on back of exhibit. All entries must have documentation included. When writing documentation ask yourself and think about how does this relate to my heritage or why is it  important?  Examples of documentation; birth dates, death dates, marriage dates, identification of individuals included in the exhibit, or stories related to the subject of the exhibit. Note: Exhibits are entered at 4-H member’s own risk. We are not responsible for loss or damage to exhibits.
Premium Category 7
Beg.          Adv. (Over 4 years in project)
A101001   A102001  Heritage Poster/Flat Exhibit- Pictures, posters, items that depict family heritage.
A101002   A102002  Family Genealogy/History Notebook- Include pedigree charts/family groups sheets, with documentation for two-three generations of one family line expanding each year. If multiple books included in exhibit, only bring book with most current year’s work.
A101003   A102003  Local History Scrapbook/Notebook- Scrapbook or notebook Depict history of local community or Nebraska that helps youth appreciate their heritage.
A101004   A102004  Framed Family (or Individuals) Grouping- Pictures showing family history, supported by written explanation.
A101005   A102005  Other Heritage Exhibit- Depict the heritage of the member’s family or community, supported by written explanation. May include biographical album of themselves or another family member, family cookbooks, etc.
A101006   A102006  4-H History Scrapbook- Relate 4-H history of local club or county. Work of individual 4-H member; no club projects. If multiple books included in exhibit, only bring book with most current year’s work.
A101007   A102007  4-H History Poster- Relate 4-H history of local club, county or individual.
A101008   A102008  Story or Illustration- About a historical event.
A101009   A102009  Book Review- About local, Nebraska, or regional history.
A101010   A102010  Other Historical Exhibit- Attach explanation of historical importance.
A101011    Family Traditions Scrapbook- Depict past family traditions.
A101012    Family Traditions Exhibit- Story or illustration of a family tradition or event, supported by a written explanation.
A101013   A102015  4-H Club/County Scrapbook- 4-H history of local club or county compiled by club historian. If multiple books included in exhibit, only  bring book with most current year’s work.
A101014   A102016  4-H Member Scrapbook- Individual Member’s 4-H History. If multiple books included in exhibit, only bring book with most current year’s work.
A101015   A102017  Special Events Scrapbook- Relating to a 4-H special event, such as National 4-H Congress or CWF or a personal- or family special event, such as a trip, family reunion, etc.
A102011      Nebraska Landmark Exhibit- Depict importance of a community or Nebraska historic landmark.
A102012      Community Report- Document something of historical significance from past to present.
A102013      Historic Collection- Display securely and attractively in a container no larger than 22”x28”.
A102014      Video Documentary of a family or community event. Must be produced and edited by 4-H member. Must be entered as a DVD or USB.

HUMAN DEVELOPMENT - Division 200
4-H THEME EXHIBITS
Cream of the Crop
Non-Competitive
Open to 4-H member in Child/Human Development project. Exhibit made with child.
*C200020  Theme Kids Coloring Book            
*C200021  Handmade Puppet/s with Story/Script 
*C200022  Theme Kid’s Party (max. 14”x22” poster)
*C200023  “When I Grow Up I want to be a __” (child’s story with photos)
*C200024  Toy/Game
*C200025  Exhibit of Choice
*C200026  Storybook Plus - Write a Story and Develop a Child’s Activity/Game

HUMAN DEVELOPMENT PROJECT INFORMATION
Note: Human Development includes child care, family life, personal development and character development. To learn characteristics of suitable and unsuitable toys and for characteristics of children at various stages of 
development, refer to 4-H resource “What It Takes to be Your Teen Babysitter”.  Additional resource is the Nebraska Early Learning Guidelines:  http://www.education.ne.gov/OEC/elg.html.
Classes #C200001-C200006: Focus on designing a toy that meets the different needs of children.
All entries must include Information Sheet: 
1) Where did I get the idea for this exhibit?
2) What decisions did I make to make sure exhibit is safe for child to use?
3) What age is this toy, game or activity appropriate for and why? (Infant: Birth-18 months, Toddlers: 18 months-3 years, Preschoolers: 3-5 years, or Middle Childhood: 6-9 years). 4-H member must give at least two examples that help in understanding the appropriateness of this exhibit for the age of the child (see project manuals).
4) How is the toy, game or activity intended to be used by the child?
Possible purchased parts are acceptable such as dice for a grade-schooler to play a game, but the significant part of the exhibit must be MADE by the 4-H members. Exhibitors in the Human Development project area will be asked to focus on designing toys/games/activities that meet the different needs of children. 
Categories: are based on the Early Learning Guidelines in Nebraska which identify the important areas in which our children should grow and develop. Use the Nebraska Department of Education website and the resources around the Early Learning Guidelines to help understand the six areas and the skills children need to develop to create your exhibit, in conjunction with your project manual. https://www.education.ne.gov/oec/early-learning-guidelines
Premium Category 6
Classes C200001-C200006 must be made by 4-H member. Classes C200001-C200006 & C200008 require an information sheet. Toy, game or activity made for a selected and identified age group. The intent is to teach the child in the developmental area related to each class. Ex: a game that is developed to help youth learn language and literacy skills would be an exhibit for Language & Literacy Development class. 
C200001   Social Emotional Development
C200002   Language and Literacy Development
C200003   Science
C200004   Health & Physical Development
C200005   Math
C200006   Creative Arts
C200007   Activity With a Younger Child- Poster or scrapbook, large 
enough to tell the story, showing 4-H member working with a child age 0-8 years. May show a specific activity such as making something with the child, or other child care and interactions as the 4-H member chooses. May include photos, captions, story, or essay. Other people may take photos so that 4-H member can be in photos. 4-H member must make the poster or scrapbook. No information sheet.
C200008   Babysitting Kit - Purpose of kit is for the 4-H member to take 
with them when they babysit in someone’s home. Do not make kit for combination of ages or for your own family to use. 4-H member should make one or more items in the kit, but purchased items are also allowed. Include list of items in the kit. Kit should serve a defined purpose, not just a catch all for several items. Display in box or bag suitable for contents. Maximum size 12”x15”x10”. All items must be safe for child to handle. Information Sheet: 1)State which ONE age group (infant, toddler, preschooler, middle childhood) the kit was prepared for.  2) What are children this age like? Give 2 examples that show how the kit would be appropriate for children this age. 3) What will the child learn or what skills will they gain by using the kit? 4) What item/s was/were made by the 4-H member?
C200009   Family Involvement Entry- Scrapbook, poster or story describing an activity the family did together. It might include making some    thing such as a doll house or feed bunk. Items may be exhibited, if desired. Other possibilities include a house or farm clean-up project, a family reunion, a celebration of a family milestone, a trip or vacation, moving, a community service. Photographs are encouraged. Visuals should show family participation. Participation by all family members is important. Include a list of family members and what each person did to participate in the event.
C200010   Growing With Others- Scrapbook or poster. Ex: How to decide if it’s time you can be home alone, and related activities; how responsibilities and privileges are related; friendships; working with others; understanding rules and boundaries; a family tree; a family rules chart; a family meal plan with pictures of a special family meal; a home safety checklist; being street smart (safety); a school scrapbook showing yourself and your school activities, memories, and special interests.
C200011   Growing In Communities- Scrapbook or poster. Ex: A career 
study; a photo story about your own growth and development, not only physically but emotionally, socially, spiritually, mentally; a television evaluation; how you have overcome obstacles; friendships; a community profile; a community service project; working with parents; teaching experiences; understanding discipline; playground safety check.

MY FINANCIAL FUTURE - Division 247
Premium Category 7
Type information & attach to poster or card stock, maximum 14”x22” (may use front & back). Page references in classes 01-06 can be found in My Financial Future Youth Notebook – Beginner.  Page references in classes 08-11 can be found in My Financial Future Youth Note  book – Advanced.
Beginning/Intermediate
C247001   Write 3 SMART Financial goals for yourself (one should be 
short term, one intermediate, and one long term). Explain how you intend to reach each goal you set.
C247002   Income Inventory- Use manual, pg. 13, as a guideline, list
sources and amounts of income you earn/receive over a six month period. Answer the following questions: What were your income sources? Were there any steady income sources? What did you do with the income you received? Include your income inventory in the exhibit.
C247003   Tracking Expenses- Use an app or chart like the one in manual, pg. 17, to track your spending over 2 months. Answer the following questions: What did you spend most of your money on? What did you learn about your spending habits? Will you make any changes in your spending based upon what you learned? Why or why not? Include your chart in your exhibit.
C247004   Money Personality Profile- Complete the money personality profile found in manual, pg. 21-22. Answer the following questions: What is your money personality? How does your money personality affect the way you spend/save money? Have a friend or family member complete the money personality profile. Compare and contrast (how are you alike, how are you different) your money personality profile with theirs.
C247005   Complete Activity 8 “What Does It Really Cost?” (manual pg. 39-40)
C247006   My Work; My Future- Interview three adults in your life about their careers or jobs using the questions in manual, pg. 51, and record these answers. In addition, answer the following questions on your display: What did you find most interesting about these jobs? Were there any positions you might want to pursue as your career? Why/Why not? What careers interest you at this point in your life? What are three steps you need to do now to prepare for this career?
Intermediate/Advanced
C247007   Interview someone who is paid a salary; someone who is paid a commission; and someone who is paid an hourly wage. Have them answer the following questions, plus any additional questions you have: 1) What are some benefits of receiving your pay the way you do (salary, commission, or hourly wage)? 2) What are some negative outcomes for getting paid the way you do? 3) Does your pay keep pace with inflation? Why do you think this? Summarize: Based upon your interviews, which payment method would suit you best? Discuss your answer. 
C247008   The Cost of Not Banking- Type your answers to the questions about Elliot (manual, pg. 50)
C247009   Evaluating Investment Alternatives- Complete the case study of Jorge (manual, pg. 64). Answer all three questions found at the bottom of the page.
C247010   Understanding Credit Scores- Watch the video and reach the resource listed in manual, pg. 71. Answer the following questions: Name 3 prudent actions that can reduce a credit card balance. What are the main factors that drive the cost of credit? List one personal financial goal that you could use credit or collateral to purchase. Discuss possible consequences that might happen with improper use of credit for your purchase.
C247011   You Be the Teacher - Create an activity, story board, game or display that would teach another youth about “Key Terms”, manual pg. 62. Activity/display must include at least 5 of the terms.
 

Leadership & Citizenship

PROJECT INFORMATION
See “General Rules” on page 19 for project information. 
4-H All-Star Champion and Reserve Champion Awards - Age Divisions (4-H age January 1, 2026): Sr. Division- 14 and older; Int. Division- 11-13; Jr. Division- 8-10.
Nebraska State Fair: Classes are eligible for State Fair competition unless marked with an * which denotes COUNTY CLASS ONLY. All static exhibits selected for the State Fair must receive a purple ribbon at county fair judging. 
Label each exhibit with exhibitor’s name on back or bottom of exhibit. Label all pieces of an exhibit. 
Exhibits released Sunday, July 26. No premium money given if exhibits are removed before deadline. Remaining exhibits should be picked up Monday, July 27.

FAIR THEME POSTER CONTEST - Division 179
Cream of the Crop
Create a poster highlighting this year’s fair theme, “Cream of the Crop.” Can be designed by hand or using computer graphics or photography. Images must not be copyrighted. Posters are limited to a maximum of 18” X 24”.
*B179007  Fair Theme Poster Contest
        
YOUTH AT WORK LEADERSHIP GRANT
Division 101
Premium Category 7
Open to 4-H member or 4-H club who received a 2026 grant from the Gage County 4-H Council.
*A101010 Report of Grant Project, including overview, resources, and 
impact. Include pictures. If project is completed, include final report. Exhibit in clear plastic cover.
*A101020  Youth at Work Exhibit/Display of Choice

4-H CLUB LEADERSHIP - Division 102
Premium Category 7
Show how you are a leader in your 4-H club. Display could include a notebook, a poster, a scrapbook, or other items to showcase your leadership.
*F102001      4-H Club Leadership Display
*F102002  4-H Club President’s Report
*F102003  4-H Club Vice President’s Report
*F102004  4-H Club Secretary’s Report
*F102005  4-H Club News Report
*F102006  4-H Club Scrapbook
*F102007  4-H Memory Scrapbook/Display

CITIZENSHIP - Division 120
CITIZENSHIP PUBLIC ADVENTURES KIT
CITIZEN GUIDE’S HANDBOOK
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The purpose of exhibit is to foster civic responsibility and action within the diverse areas of citizenship including community service, service learning, government and policy making. Project materials: Citizenship Public Adventures Kit (MI 7329) and Citizen’s Guide Handbook (BU 7330) and Seeing i2i. Other helpful references include Citizenship Washington Focus guides, Character Counts and Service learning information. Displays should not be larger than 22” x 28” wide. If the size needs to be a different size because the item is larger than 22”x28” please contact the superintendents for approval. Display collections securely in an attractive container no larger than 22” x 28”. Supporting material: All entries must have a statement explaining the purpose of the exhibit. Show evidence of your personal experiences, study or observations that relate to exhibit. All exhibitors should reference material sources or supporting information used in exhibits (i.e., if questions from a game were taken from an outside source, they must be referenced). All entries should be labeled with the exhibitor’s name, club, and county. 
A120001   Care Package Display - Exhibit is a display about the process 
of creating or developing and giving a care package to a service organization, not the actual care package. You may use poster, Power Point or other multi-media program, etc. Multi-media presentations are to be uploaded to a video streaming application and 4-H member must provide a hard copy QR code for viewing. 4-H members are encouraged to test their codes and links on several devices to check for appropriate permissions for public viewing. Care package might be a backpack for school supplies, litter pan for animal shelter items, suitcase for abuse shelter or homeless shelter, etc. Answer the following questions: 1) How did you select the organization? 2) What items did you include in your care package? 3) Why did you select these items? 4) How did it feel to present your care package to the organization? 5) What did you learn from this experience? 6) Other information that you feel is important about the care package or organization. 
A120002   Citizenship Game - Create a game which could include, but isn’t limited to, symbol flash cards, question and answer board or stimulation with props. Include clear instructions on how to play the     game and what the game hopes to accomplish.
A120003   Patriotic or Cultural Fine Arts - Made of any art media; should tie in the relevance of the artwork to citizenship.
A120004   Public Adventure Scrapbook - Describe Your Public Adventure or Service Learning activity. Scrapbooks should measure no more than 16”x16”.
A120005       Public Adventure Poster - Describe Your Public Adventure or Service Learning activity. Display posters must be stiff enough to stand when supported from behind and below. Length and width must be no more than 24”x28”.
A120006       Written or Recorded Stakeholder Interview - Follow outline in the Public Adventures curriculum; may be written or recorded. Upload to a video streaming application and 4-H member must provide a hard copy QR code for viewing. 4-H members are encouraged to test their codes or link on several devices to check for appropriate permissions for public viewing.
A120007       Written Citizenship Essay - Promote good citizenship and patriotism, 300-400 typewritten words. 
A120008       Oral Citizenship Essay (9th - 12th graders only) - Address the theme “Freedom’s Obligations.” 3-5 minutes. No background music, singing or other enhancement allowed. Upload to a video streaming application and 4-H member must provide a hard copy QR code for viewing. 4-H members are encouraged to test their codes or link on several devices to check for appropriate permissions for public viewing. Voice tones should be normal and conversational. Attach a copy of the written essay.
A120009       Service Items - Exhibit could include, but not limited to, lap quilt, Quilt of Valor or homemade toys; non-perishable item. Attach an explanation of who the recipient was and how the service project was made and used. The service item could be part of a larger community service effort.
A120010       4-H Club Exhibit - Depict what a 4-H club has done in community service. This item could include, but is not limited to, a service item, poster, scrapbook, cultural or creative arts item or care package, Quilt of Valor.
Seeing i2i
A130001   Cultural Fine Arts - can be made of any art media but should symbolize what makes them unique.
A130002   How Are We Different? - Interview should follow the interview guide in the participant manual, pg. 3, and should reflect on the differences and similarities between you and the person you are interviewing.
A130003   Name Art - should be a creative art exhibit that symbolizes or explains where your name came from and what it means; can use any media.
A130004   Family History depicting your family cultural history or the ethnic make-up of your community, noting who were the first settlers, where did they come from, evidence of the background today (local celebrations, family celebrations, museum or educational displays, historical markers, etc.).
A130005   Exhibit depicting a cultural food - that is special to your family; can be essay or story.
A130006   “This is Who I Am” poem- a poem written by the 4-H’er that reflects who they are
A130007   Poster - that depicts what you learned through the i2i project
A130008   Biography - about a historical figure who has made a positive impact on our society or who has made a difference in the lives of others.
A130009   Play Script - written about a different culture

ENTREPRENEURSHIP - Division 531
ESI: Discover the E-Scene - Unit 1
ESI: The Case of Me - Unit 2
ESI: Your Business Inspection - Unit 3
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Entrepreneurship exhibits help participants develop an entrepreneurial mindset. An entrepreneurial mindset is needed to tackle social issues as well as explore new business opportunities. If exhibit is a poster, it must be 14”x22” and may be arranged vertically or horizontally. Posters may not use copyrighted materials, such as cartoon characters or commercial product names. Posters may include photographs, charts or examples, as well as a written explanation. Posters may be laminated. Exhibitors name, age, town and county must be listed on the back of the exhibit.
Unit 1 - Discover the E-Scene
F531001   Interview an Entrepreneur- Share what you learned from the
person about having an entrepreneurial mindset. How have they applied that mindset? Have they started a business? Are they tackling a social issue? How do they deliver excellent customer service? How will what you have learned through this interview change your future plans or ways of thinking about entrepreneurship? The summary of the interview should be typed and with a maximum length of two pages (12 pt. font). Enter exhibit in a folder with fasteners, no slide bars. 
Unit 2 - The Case of ME
F531002   Social Entrepreneurship Presentation- Prepare a five slide powerpoint presentation about a social entrepreneurship venture to benefit a group or individual in your community. Social entrepreneurs are people who are in business to help others. Submit a print out of the note pages which show each slide and include an explanation of each slide. Enter exhibit in a folder with fasteners (no slide bars). Refer to page 2.4 of Unit 2, The Case of Me, for ideas.
Unit 3 - Your Business Inspection
F531003    Marketing Package (mounted on 14”x22” poster)- Include at least three items/examples developed by the 4-H member from the following: business card, brochure, advertisement, business promotional piece, printout of internet home page, packaging design, signs, logo design, direct mail piece, etc. The marketing package should be for an original business developed by the 4-H member and not an existing business.
F531004   Sample of an Original Product- Include information sheet (81/2”x11”) answering the following questions: 1) What did you enjoy most about making the product? 2) What challenges did you have when making the product? Would you do anything differently next time? If so, what? 3) What is the suggested retail price of the product? How did you decide on the price? 4) Market analysis of the community-data gathered through a survey of potential customers. Survey at least 10 people in your community about your product. 5) How much would you earn per hour? Show how you determined this figure. 6) What is unique about this product?
F531005   Photos of an Original Product (mounted on 14.5”x22” poster) - 
Include 3 photos of developed product and a mounted information sheet answering the following questions:  1)What did you enjoy most about making the product?  2) What challenges did you have when making the product? Would you do anything differently the next time? If so, what?  3)  What is the suggested retail price of the product? How did you decide on the price?  4) Market analysis of the community - data gathered through a survey of potential customers. Survey at least 10 people in your community about your product.  5)  How much would you earn per hour?  Show how you determined this figure. 6)  What is unique about this product? Note: If exhibiting in both Sample Class and Photo Class - products must be different.
Entrepreneurship Units 1, 2, and 3
F531006    Entrepreneurship Challenge – Complete 5 or more of the challenges from the following list with highlights from these challenges. Consider labeling each challenge so the viewer will understand what the challenge was. Enter a poster, video (or other digital presentation), report or scrapbook related to the learning. Use your creativity to show and share what you learned. Select your challenges from this list: 1) Sell something. 2) Introduce yourself to a local entrepreneur and take a selfie with them. 3) Be a detective. Look for Nebraska-made products and find out more about the business. 4) Tour 2-3 entrepreneurial businesses and create a photo story. 5) Investigate what it takes to be an entrepreneur and complete a skills assessment. 6) Make a prototype (sample/model) of a new product idea. (Include the prototype or a photo of prototype). 7) Work with a friend to develop a new business idea.  8) Contact your local  Extension Office to learn about entrepreneurship opportunities. 9) Create an activity to teach others about entrepreneurship (coloring page, puzzle, game, etc.) 10) Talk to local leaders about entrepreneurial thinking and how it is being applied or could be applied to a current community issue. 
*F531007  Exhibit of Choice, Educational notebook, Poster - 14”x22”, display, collection of materials that relate to project. Include 8 1/2” x 11” page describing exhibit and summary of learning each activity and results. Include pictures. Exhibit in clear plastic folder.
*F530019  County-Wide Leadership Activity - Plan and carry out a leadership activity or event at the county level. Include pictures. Exhibit in clear plastic folder.

MISCELLANEOUS
Online Pre-Entry Deadline: July 15
CAMP RENEGADE - DIVISION 910
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*F910001   Camp/Craft Project - exhibitors can enter up to 3 entries in this  class.

EDUCATIONAL EXHIBIT - Division 920
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Open to 4-H member or club. Develop an educational exhibit. Use the most effective means to show what you have accomplished in a project. Photographs, posters (14”x22”), charts, drawings or articles used or made may be utilized to tell the story. Include sufficient explanation so that viewers understand what was done. Exhibit that is hangable must have a secure hanger. Maximum size is 24”x24”.
*F920001  Self-Determined Educational Exhibit - Jr. Division (8-11)
*F920002  Self-Determined Educational Exhibit - Sr. Division (age 12 and older)
*F920003  Self-Determined 4-H Club Exhibit

Photography

PHOTOGRAPHY 4-H THEME EXHIBITS 
Division 179
Cream of the Crop
Non-Competitive
Open to 4-H member enrolled in Photography project. One 8”x10” photograph or 3 photos (4”x6”) mounted on poster board, 11”x14”. Maximum 7 entries per exhibitor.
*B179001  Cream of the Crop...    *B179004  Nebraska Agriculture
*B179002  Selfie             *B179005  People of Nebraska
*B179003  My Home or Family    *B179006 Exhibit of Choice
PROJECT INFORMATION
See “General Rules” on page 19 for project information. 
4-H All-Star Champion and Reserve Champion Awards - Age Divisions (4-H age January 1, 2026): Sr. Division- 14 and older; Int. Division- 11-13; Jr. Division- 8-10.
Nebraska State Fair: Classes are eligible for State Fair competition unless marked with an * which denotes COUNTY CLASS ONLY. All static exhibits selected for the State Fair must receive a purple ribbon at county fair judging. 
Label each exhibit with exhibitor’s name on back or bottom of exhibit. Label all pieces of an exhibit. If an exhibit includes several small parts or pieces, exhibit together in ziploc bag.
Exhibits released Sunday, July 26. No premium money given if exhibits are removed before deadline. Remaining exhibits should be picked up Monday, July 27.
                
PHOTOGRAPHY - Division 180-182
PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT INFORMATION
The purpose of this project area is to establish basic to advanced knowledge of and abilities in using photographic equipment, lighting, and composition to capture images, express feelings, and communicating ideas. Participants can work through the three project levels,  progressing from basic to advanced photography skills and techniques. 4-H members are allowed to exhibit in only one photography level. All exhibits must be the result of current 4-H project. Exhibit must be made/photo taken since July 31, 2025, with the exception of the Unit III Portfolios which may include images captured and/or exhibited in previous years. An image may only be used on one exhibit with the exception of the Unit III Portfolio which may include images entered as exhibit prints in other Unit III classes.
Cameras - Any type of film or digital cameras are acceptable, including phones, tablets, and drones. Securely attach photos, mats, backing, and data tags. DO NOT use photo corners, borders, or place coverings over exhibits.
Portfolios - All portfolios must include the following information: 1) 1-page max bio, 2) table of contents, 3) year each photo was taken, 4) title for each image, 5) device make and model used to capture each image, and 6) reflections for each photo. When writing reflections, youth should focus on what new photography techniques or skills they were practicing when they took the photo, what makes the image successful, and what could have been done to improve the image. Portfolios may be presented in either digital or print formats: 1) Printed portfolios should be presented in an 8.5”X11” three-ring binder or similar book format. Recommended photo size is 8”X10”. Matting is not necessary. 2) Digital portfolios may be presented online and must be exhibited along with a code that takes users (judges and fairgoers) to their online portfolio.
Display Exhibits - are only accepted in Level 1 and Level 2 classes. Displays consist of three 4” X 6” photos mounted on a single horizontal 11”X14” black or white poster or mat board. Incorrect sizes will not be accepted. No foam board backing should be used. Each photo in the display must be numbered using a pencil. Numbers should be readable but not distract from the overall display. No titles, captions, or stick-on numbers will be allowed. Photos may be mounted vertically or horizontally. Appropriate data tags are required.
Print Exhibits - Print exhibits must be 8”x10” mounted on 11”x14” (outside size) cut matting with a sandwich mat board backing. No foam board. Mat openings may be rectangular or oval. Photos may be horizontal or vertical. No frames. Appropriate unit data tags required.
Entry Tags: Entry tags should be securely attached to the upper right-hand corner of the exhibit.
Data Tags - data tags are required on all print and display exhibits in classes. Data tags are not required for portfolios. Each exhibit must have the appropriate number and level of data tags as outline below. Data tags should be securely attached to the back of the exhibit. Current data tags are available at: https://unl.app.box.com/v/4h-photography
Level 2 Prints: All Level 2 prints must have a Level 2 Data Tag.
Level 2 Displays: Each photo of the display must include a separate Level 2 Data Tag. Data tags should be numbered with the corresponding 
photo’s number.
Level 3 Prints: All Level 3 prints must have a Level 3 Data Tag.  
Level 1 - Photography Basics 
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*B180001  Fun with Shadows Display or Print - photos should capture interesting or creative use of shadows (Activity 4)
*B180002  Get in Close Display or Print - photo should capture a close-up view of the subject or object (Activity 8)
*B180003 Bird’s or Bug’s Eye View Display or Print - Photo should capture an interesting viewpoint of a subject, either from above (bird’s eye view) or below (bug’s eye view) (Activity 10).
*B180004  Tricks and Magic Display or Print - Photos should capture visual trickery or magic. Trick photography requires creative compositions of objects in space and are intended to trick the person viewing the photo. For example, if someone is standing in front of a flowerpot, the pot might to be visible in the image, making it look as if the flowers are growing out of the person’s head (Activity 11).
*B180005  People, Places, or Pets with Personality Display or Print – Photos should have a strong focal point, which could be people, places, or pets. Photos should capture the subject’s personality or character. Photos may be posed or un-posed. (Activity 13)
*B180006  Black and White Display or Print – Photos should create interest without the use of color. Photos should show strong contrast and/or textures. Photos may be captured in black and white or captured in color and edited to black and white. (Activity 15)
*B180007  Challenging Photo Exhibit: Telling a Story Display – Exhibit will include three photos which tell a story without words. Photos may show something being created, destroyed, consumed, moving, or growing. Photos should capture the beginning, middle, and end of a single story, project, or event. (Activity 14)
*B180008  My Favorite Photo - 5”x7” color print on 8”x10” poster board with sandwich backing
*B180009  Selfie (yourself and/or with friend) - 5”x7” print on 8”x10” poster board with sandwich backing
Unit 2 - Next Level Photography 
Level 2 photographers should be utilizing all the skills and techniques they have developed thus far in their photography careers, especially topics covered in Book 1 Photography Basics and Book 2 Next Level Photography.                
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B181010   Level 2 Portfolio - Level 2 portfolios should represent the photographer’s best work and must include 5-7 different images from the 4-H member’s photography career. At least 2 images must have been taken during the current year. The remaining images may have been taken at any time during the member’s 4-H experience and may have been previously exhibited. Portfolios may include photos which are exhibited in other Level 2 classes during the same year.. See guidelines above.
B181020   Creative Techniques & Lighting Display or Print- Photos should capture a creative use of lighting, such as diffused lighting, back lighting, or hard lighting, reflections, or another lighting technique covered in Book 2 Next Level Photography (Activity 3, 4, 5)
B181030   Creative Composition Display or Print - Photos should capture a creative composition using the Rule of Thirds, Golden Triangle, Golden Rectangle, or another composition technique covered in Book 2 Next Level Photography. (Activity 6, 7, 8, 9)
B181040   Abstract Photography Display or Print - Photos should be abstract or capture a small piece of a larger subject. Abstract photos may not look like anything in particular but should be able to capture a viewer’s attention. (Activity 11)
B181050   Candid Photography Display or Print - Candid photos should capture a special moment or meaningful interaction. Photos should be un-posed. (Activity 10)
B181060   Expression Through Color Display or Print - Photos should capture a creative use of color or a color scheme, such as complimentary, contrasting, monochromatic, warm, cool, primary, secondary, or tertiary. (Activity 13)                
Level 3 - Mastering Photography
Level 3 photographers should be exploring and experimenting with advanced techniques. This may include but does not necessarily require using an SLR camera, manual adjustments, or other advanced equipment. Level 3 photographers should be utilizing all the skills and techniques they have developed throughout their photography career, especially topics covered in Book 1 Photography Basics, Book 2 Next Level Photography, and Book 3 Mastering Photography.
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B182010      Level 3 Portfolio - Level 3 portfolios should represent the photographer’s best work. Level 3 portfolios must include 9-11 images from the 4-H member’s photography career. At least 3 images should be from the current year. The remaining images may have been taken at any time during the member’s 4-H experience and may have been previously exhibited. Portfolios may include photos which are exhibited in other Level 3 classes during the same year. See guidelines above.
B182020   Advanced Techniques & Lighting Print - Photos should show an experimentation or exploration of advanced lighting, such as low-light or silhouette photography or another advanced photography technique, such as astrophotography, underwater photography, or infrared photography. (Activity 3, 4, 5, or 12)
B182030      Advanced Composition Print - Photos should show advanced compositions, such as using diagonal, horizontal, or vertical lines or repeating shapes to frame a subject or lead the viewer’s eye through a scene; breaking the rule of thirds to compose a discordant image; or another advanced composition technique covered in Book 3 Mastering Photography (Activity 6, 7)
B182040   Portrait Print - A great portrait captures not only a person’s physical image, but also something of the person’s character or personality. Photos may be either formal or informal, but must be of one or more human subjects. (Activity 9)
B182050   Still Life Print - Photos should capture non-moving objects that have been arranged in an interesting way. Photos should demonstrate advanced control over lighting and composition. (Activity 8)
B182060      Freeze/Blur the Moment Print - Photos should capture a subject in motion. Photographers should adjust shutter speed to either freeze or blur the movement. (Activity 11)