4-H in Putnam County

Welcome to Putnam County 4-H!

4H Youth Development Programs are grounded in the belief that kids learn best by doing. Kids complete hands-on projects in many areas where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.

Annual 4-H Club Membership Fee: There is an Annual 4-H Club Membership Fee of $45 per youth. Some clubs & special programs may charge an additional fee to cover supplies, materials & promotional fees. The 4-H year runs from October 15 through September 1.

2025-2026 4-H Clubs

HAY YOU! JR. AGRICULTURE CLUB (ages 5-10): Learn about raising chickens by taking care of your own chick and starting seeds in a greenhouse for a “chicken garden.” This year-long project will end with homing the chickens at a local farm and planting the chicken garden. The following year youth will be able to sell their chicken eggs to raise funds for the club. Enjoy hands-on crafts and activities as well as hiking and exploring at Tilly Foster Farm. Parent participation is required. This club meets twice a month. Club fee: $20

SPROUTS 4-H CLOVERBUD CLUB (ages 5-8): Explore nature and learn about the environment through a variety of hands-on activities. Members will also take part in nature hikes & STEM play. Parent Participation is required. This club meets once a month. Club fee: $25

TALL OAKS 4-H HORSE CLUB (ages 9+): Engage in activities at the stable learning proper grooming techniques, stable management and general health and horse care. Members participate in Horse Bowl and Hippology competitions as well as showmanship exhibitions at Putnam County Fair and 4-H Showcase. This club meets every other week. Club fee: $25

4-H TOP FOCUS JR. EQUINE CLUB (ages 6-11): Club members will have the opportunity to get hands-on experience with all aspects of horsemanship including grooming, stable chores, general care of horses and farm management. This is a nonriding club. This club meets twice a month. Club fee: $20

REEL RANGERS 4-H FISHING CLUB (ages 9+): Develop fishing skills, learn about aquatic ecosystems, and fish the waters in and around Putnam County. Club fee: $20

4-H HAY YOU! LIVESTOCK CLUB (Ages 11+): Learn about chickens, goats, alpacas, cows and pigs at Tilly Foster Farm. Learn valuable life skills, such as public speaking and animal care, while engaging in educational programs and activities. This club meets every other week. Club fee: $20.

4-H PINS AND NEEDLES SEWING CLUB (Ages 9+): Learn how to use a sewing machine, basic construction and embellishment and create unique items. Parent Participation is required. Ownership of a sewing machine is not required to participate. This club meets quarterly. Club fee: $10.

4-H SEW MUCH FUN SEWING CLUB (Ages 9+): Youth Members will gain an introduction to sewing, basic construction and embellishment. Members will learn new skills, make friends, and create unique items. Members will also develop life skills such as leadership, responsibility, teamwork, and critical thinking. Ownership of a sewing machine is not required to participate. This club meets monthly. Club fee: $10.

TOPFIELD 4-H HORSEMANSHIP CLUB (Ages 11+):  Youth members will engage in activities to increase their experience with basic horsemanship, barn management and leadership. Members will also explore the use of horses as therapeutic partners while learning about adaptive equestrianism and career paths in this rewarding field. This program includes working with barn staff to groom and care for the horses, but there is no riding. This club meets twice a month. Club fee: $20

TRAILBLAZERS 4-H SHOOTING SPORTS CLUB (Ages 9+): Youth members learn archery and air rifle skills as well as take part in outdoor education and leadership. Members also participate in regional competitions throughout the year. Parent leadership and support needed. This club meets weekly. Club fee: $5.