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Designed By: Emily West
Knox County Community Club Leaders
4-H Spinners
Judy Winship
Henderson Aggies
Carrie Hawkinson
Chris Nelson
Dianne Steck
Julie Wiegand
Bracken Busy Bees
Ronda Brooks
Jeanne Wiskirchen
Bright Horizons
Amy Krause
Robert Palmer
K’Ville Clovers
Debra German
Michelle German
Ashley German-Cooper
Bright Horizons Cloverbud
Tami McKenna
Knox County Power Clovers
Lora Ramp
Cloverleaf
Beth DeSchepper
Brenda England
Steve England
Rio Livestock
Christinel Cain
Jarid Cain
John Flack
Rhonda Flack
Delong Livestock
Tabitha Beardsley
Joy Link
Hague Hustlers
Ted Inness
Teresa Inness
Rio Livestock Cloverbud
Jennifer Lee
Rusty Spurs
Buffy Allen
Loretta Brinegar
Pauline Curry
Rebecca Curry
Southwestern
Charity Pieper
Danita Turner
Debra Turner
Union
Becky Hennenfent
Kim Inniss
Walnut Grove Progressors
Christi Main
Janelle West
Jay West
Wataga Trailblazers
Diane Holmes
Pete Holmes
Wataga Trailblazers Cloverbud
Missy Fitzpatrick
Williamsfield Town & Country
Randy Newell
Grant Strom
Knox County Extension Staff
Lisa Fulkerson, County Director
Tessa Hobbs-Curley, 4-H Youth Educator
Angel Wright, Program Coordinator – 4-H
Julian Inniss, Program Coordinator – 4-H SPIN
Avis Skinner, Office Support Assistant
Lisa Lincoln, Office Support Associate
Cara Allen, Family Life Educator
Kyle Cecil, Small Farms/Local Food Educator
Chris Enroth, Horticulture Educator
Mekenzie Riley, Nutrition/Wellness Educator
Carrie McKillip, Community Development Educator
Amy Finley, Community Worker – SNAP-ED
Amy Pickrel, Program Coordinator – Horticulture
Miki White, Program Coordinator – Local Food/Small Farms
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Schedule of Events .............................. 3
Dates to Remember ............................ 3
Educational Objectives ........................ 5
Knox County 4-H Policies ..................... 5
State Fair Notes ................................... 7
Livestock Health Requirements...........57
Aerospace ............................................... 9
Animal Science .......................................10
Beef .......................................................61
Beef Breeding .........................................62
Bicycle ....................................................11
Bucket Calf .............................................64
Camping .................................................40
Cat .........................................................11
Child Development .................................11
Citizenship ..............................................13
Clothing & Textiles .................................13
Communications.....................................15
Computer Science ...................................16
Consumer Education...............................17
Crops ......................................................18
Dairy ......................................................64
Dogs .......................................................19
Electricity ...............................................23
Electronics................................................. 24
Entomology ............................................24
Floriculture .............................................25
Food & Nutrition ....................................27
Forestry ..................................................29
Geology ..................................................30
Geospatial ..............................................31
Goats .....................................................65
Health ....................................................32
Horse and Pony.......................................... 66
Horticulture ............................................... 32
Intercultural .............................................. 34
Intergenerational ....................................... 35
Interior Design ........................................... 36
Journalism ................................................. 15
Leadership ................................................. 37
Natural Resources ...................................... 39
Photography .............................................. 40
Plant & Soil Science.................................... 42
Poultry....................................................... 69
Rabbits ...................................................... 71
Robotics .................................................... 42
Sheep ........................................................ 71
Shooting Sports ......................................... 45
Small Engines ............................................. 45
Small Pets .................................................. 46
Swine ........................................................ 73
Theatre Arts............................................... 46
Tractor....................................................... 48
Veterinary Science ..................................... 49
Video ......................................................... 50
Visual Arts ................................................. 51
Welding ..................................................... 54
Woodworking ............................................ 55
Specialty Contests.................................. 56
Clean Stall Award .................................. 74
Master Showmanship ............................ 74
Conference Judging for Members ............. 8
Message to Leaders & Parents ................. 8
Code of Conduct ...................................... 9
4-H Motto.............................................. 75
Programs and activities sponsored by University of Illinois Extension are open to anyone. If a special
need must be addressed in order for any individual to participate, please contact Lisa Fulkerson, County
Director at 309/342-5108 in advance of this event.
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DATES TO REMEMBER
May 1 – Horse ownership, lease papers and photos due to the Extension Office. Please
contact the office to see if your photos are on file. You may not have to resubmit horse
photos.
May 28 – State Fair Horse Entries are due with entry fees.
June 8 – Entries due in the Extension Office by 4:30 p.m.
July 1 - Illinois State Fair junior show and open show livestock entries due to Illinois State Fair.
July 21-26 Illinois State Fair Junior Horse/Pony Show
August 1 – Entries due for State Fair Dog Entries
August 13-23 Illinois State Fair
August 16 – County Exhibit Day (Knox County) at Illinois State Fair
August 29– Illinois State Fair Junior Dog Show
2015 KNOX COUNTY 4-H SHOW SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Dog Show
SATURDAY, JUNE 27
8:30 a.m.
Dog Obedience and Showmanship Check-In
9:00 a.m.
Dog Obedience and Showmanship Judging in beef/swine show ring
10 am - 12:00 (noon) Dog Care Exhibits – Cattle Barn area
Clothing Show
MONDAY, JULY 6
8 - 4:30 p.m.
Drop off constructed clothing exhibits at Knox Agri Center for state fair eligibility
TUESDAY, JULY 7
8-4:00 p.m.
4-5:00 p.m.
6-8:00 p.m.
Drop-off constructed clothing exhibits at Knox Agri Center for state fair eligibility
Constructed Garments Reviewed by Judges
Clothing Judging – Knox Agri Center
General Project Show
SATURDAY, JULY 11
8:30 a.m.
10:30 a.m.
11:30 a.m.
12 Noon
2:00 p.m.
3:30 – 6:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m.
6:15 p.m.
You may go to the information table and pick up your entry tags. Then proceed
to the judging stations that are assigned on your entry tag. If you are in more
than one project, check to see the length of lines waiting to be judged and go to
the shortest line first.
Cut off time to pick up your entry tags.
Club and Cloverbud projects displayed/judged
State Fair Selections Made
Displays open to public
4-H Market – Inside Munson Building behind Entry Table
Rocket Launch (infield)
Clothing Exhibitors report for groupings and instruction
4-H Federation Annual Meeting and Fashion Revue
General Show Projects will be released after Fashion Revue
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Horse Show
SUNDAY, JULY 12
Please note this location change: Horse arena across from Carl Sandburg College Entrance,
commonly known as the Boots and Saddle Club Arena.
Please note that helmets are required for all events at the 2015 4-H Horse Show. You
may bring a helmet or one will be provided for you.
8:00 a.m.
9:00 a.m.
Horse show registration
Horse show
Livestock Show
SUNDAY, JULY 12
12 – 8:00 p.m.
4:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Livestock may be brought to grounds
Livestock weigh in (steers, swine, market lambs, and meat goats) and check in
MONDAY, JULY 13
8:00 a.m.
8:00 a.m.
1:00 p.m.
2:30 p.m.
3:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m.
Beef judging (heifer show, then steer show) - (lunch break sometime around the
noon hour) – beef/swine show ring
Goat judging – sheep show ring
Sheep judging – sheep show ring
Dairy judging – beef/swine show ring
Bucket calves – beef/swine show ring
Master Showmanship – beef/swine show ring
Lawn Mower Driving Contest
Tractor Driving Contest
TUESDAY, JULY 14
8:00 a.m.
8:00 a.m.
10:30 a.m.
3:00 p.m.
Swine judging (barrows then gilts) - (will take a 30 minute break around noon) –
beef/swine show ring
Rabbit judging – poultry barn
Poultry judging – poultry barn
Livestock will be released at the conclusion of the swine show.
Ag Olympics
Please make sure that livestock pens are cleaned completely and ready for the Knox County Fair
before you exit the fairgrounds on Tuesday, July 14th. Thank You!
In order to exhibit at the 2015 Knox County 4-H Show, you must have attended 4 of your 4-H club meetings. You will also need to
give a talk/demonstration at your meeting. If you were unable to attend 4 meetings, you will not be able to exhibit. The only
exception to this rule is for college students and youth attending boarding school. These youth must have turned in a contract by
December 1 of the current year stating their agreement with University of Illinois Extension to do volunteer service to 4-H if they
were unable to attend the required number of meetings.
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SHOWMANSHIP RULES
Showmanship classes are open to all 4-H’ers.
Dogs and Horse/Pony do require advance registration. Horse show participants are required to
wear helmets.
Beef, sheep, goats, swine and horses have an Intermediate Division
Age at the time of show:
o 8-10 Junior
o 11-13 Intermediate
o 14-19 Senior
Dog Show
Age of 4-H member as of September 1 with only a Jr and Sr Division.
o 8-13 Junior
o 14-19 Senior
EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES
The purpose of the Knox County 4-H Show is to provide the youth participants with the opportunity to
accomplish the following objectives:
1. Participate in a quality educational experience through interaction with experts in a given project field.
2. Exhibit the products and skills of their project work.
3. Showcase the talents of the individual participants and the 4-H program.
KNOX COUNTY 4-H POLICIES
The following is a list of policies to guide 4-H club work in Knox County.
1. A member should not be counted absent from a local club meeting if attending a sanctioned 4-H activity.
2. A tour (either project or educational) and a local club achievement meeting can be counted as a regular
meeting if a business meeting is held.
3. Only those projects on the club roster by March 1st may be exhibited.
4. Each 4-H’er must exhibit their own project. If a 4-H’er becomes ill, or there is illness or death in the family or
in military service, they may be excused from the Show and have another Knox County 4-H member exhibit
for them. Any other reason for not exhibiting must be acted upon by the 4-H General Show or Livestock
Committee. In any event, the 4-H’er should notify the division superintendent, if there is to be a change.
5. To attend State Fair in any 4-H project, a member must be ten (10) years of age as of September 1, 2014 and
must be present at the Knox County 4-H Show for non-livestock exhibits to be eligible.
6. All 4-H’ers receiving State Fair Cards for clothing will model before judges.
7. Any Knox County 4-H member who becomes involved in a major discipline situation will be barred from
participation in any 4-H activity outside Knox County for a period of one year. A second infraction of good
conduct at a 4-H function would be cause to disqualify the member from membership in Knox County 4-H.
8. Knox County 4-H premiums are determined by the number of exhibits and monies allotted from the state of
Illinois Agricultural Premium Fund: Blue - 3x; Red - 2x; and White - 1x. Club exhibits: Blue - 3x; Red - 2x; and
White - 1x. Only 1 premium will be paid per class.
9. Entries will be mailed to you in early May. See your leader for questions about project exhibits. Late entries
will not be accepted. Entries must be in the Extension Office on or before Monday, June 8, 2015, by 4:30
p.m.
10. All livestock exhibits will be on the fairgrounds by 8:00 PM, Sunday, July 12. All non-livestock and small pets
will be judged according to the Conference Judging Schedule on July 11, 2015. 4-H’ers should be present at
time of judging.
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11. Each project must be groomed by the 4-H’er or with the assistance of their family or other 4-H member. All
exhibitors of animals at any Illinois fair or exhibition (including the Knox County 4-H Show) shall comply with
the provision of the Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act. If violations are observed, the animal(s) will be
excused from exhibition and be ordered to be removed from the grounds with all awards being forfeited at
the discretion of the Knox County 4-H Livestock Committee. As determined by fair officials, superintendents,
veterinarians, any practice or deviation from normal humane husbandry practices, including, but not limited
to artificial manipulations, physical abuse medical treatments or mechanical applications of any substance,
other than on the prescription of a licensed veterinarian, will constitute a violation of show rules and are
subject to the above provisions. Illinois Department of Agriculture personnel can collect blood or tissue or
urine samples from any animal being exhibited and/or raced at any Illinois fair (including the Knox County 4-H
Show) to test for the presence of illegal drugs.
12. No 4-H member enrolled in Knox County 4-H may stay overnight on the Knox Country Fairgrounds property
during the dates of the 4-H Show, July 12-14, 2015.
13. Each 4-H’er may exhibit only one entry per class unless specified otherwise.
14. Animals shown in the showmanship class must be owned by the 4-H member showing it, unless specified
otherwise by the judge.
15. All livestock exhibited must have been fed by, cared for and been the property of the exhibitor during the
required tenure of ownership and this project has not been cared for by a professional fitter or maintained at
a professional fitter’s facilities. Any time this project is at a professional fitter’s for more than one day’s
duration is cause for disqualification.
16. CLOVER CHALLENGE PROJECTS are available in all project categories. Some clover challenge projects have an
exhibit opportunity at the state fair; some do not. Counties MUST have a Clover Challenge exhibit
opportunity for every project at their local 4-H show/fair.
 Members must be enrolled in the specific Clover Challenge project to exhibit in this class.
 Members must be 15 years of age and older (4-H age).
 Members must have completed all the previous levels/units of the project category.
 Members must have an adult mentor.
 Members must complete the Clover Challenge agreement @
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/ and include it with their exhibit.
 Clover Challenge projects are to be “above and beyond” the activities listed in the project manual. The
exhibit can be presented in any format which best shows the member’s knowledge and skill. They should
reflect YEARS OF STUDY by the member.
 Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. A copy of the agreement is due to the Extension office by
April 1.
17. INNOVATION CLASS: (This class is open to members who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14.)
Demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained through the project. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games,
apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You must furnish any
equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must
include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during
the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain
on display during the entire exhibit period. Specific project areas include: Child Development 2 & 3,
Computer Science Intro, 1, 2, & 3, Crops, Geology, Health 1, 2, & 3, Interior Design, Leadership 1, 2, & 3,
Natural Resources 1, 2, & 3, Outdoor Adventures 1, 2, & 3, Sportsfishing 1, 2, & 3, Wildlife B, Photography 1,
2, & 3, Public Presentations, Robotics Platforms, Junk Drawer Robotics 1, 2, & 3, Theatre Arts 1, 2, & 3,
Tractor A, B, C, & D, and Video/Filmmaking. The Innovation Class is also state fair eligible.
18. NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES PERMITTED ON THE FAIRGROUNDS ANYTIME BY ANYONE
19. Any questions regarding a 4-H project unit, phase of show entry shall be decided upon by the 4-H General
Show or Livestock Committee and their decision will be final.
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20. No dogs allowed on the fairgrounds unless exhibiting the dog for that day, with the exception of service dogs.
SPECIAL NOTE: Occasionally a 4-H member's exhibit is left in the building after the 4-H Show is over. Please place
your name on your item in an inconspicuous place so you can find your project. Flowers, food, plants, and
vegetables will be discarded if not picked up. Items will need to be picked up after the fashion awards program
and before the dance. If not picked up, it will be discarded.
State Fair Notes
Non-Livestock General Rules
1. Any boy or girl in Illinois, who is enrolled as a 4-H member and is at least 10 years old as of September 1,
2014 may participate in 4-H classes and activities, providing the exhibitor meets the eligibility rules for
participation. Parents and leaders should be aware of conditions on the Fairgrounds and make provisions for
the adequate care and supervision of exhibitors.
2. Exhibitors must be enrolled in the project, or participating in the activity exhibited during the current year.
3. All entries must be products of the current 4-H year (September 1, 2014 - August 31, 2015). The same
product or speech that is selected at the county level must be the one exhibited at the State Fair with the
exception of exhibits in the areas of Food & Nutrition (must be the same recipe), Crops, Floriculture, and
Vegetable Market Baskets or Plates. However, suggested improvements from the county selection process
may be made to the item prior to State Fair. Determination of eligibility rests solely with the University of
Illinois Extension Assistant Dean and Director, 4-H and designated persons.
4. An individual 4-H'er may enter ONLY ONE exhibit class in the 4-H Exhibit Division. This includes exhibitors in
Fashion Revue, Public Presentations, and Club/Group exhibits in Intercultural. Exhibitors that are enrolled in
projects in two different counties can only exhibit in one 4-H County. Exhibitors will need to check in at
specific times on their county’s assigned date. Exhibits are required to be judged on the assigned county
day for judging. Conference judging will take place on Sunday, August 16. Presentation and conference
judging times will be assigned at check-in. Exhibitors not reporting at their designated time will forfeit their
time and may be placed at the end of the day’s schedule. General 4-H exhibitors also wishing to show in Jr.
Livestock classes should realize that judging conflicts may exist and the member will need to make a decision
on their priorities. The General 4-H Show will try to accommodate judging times; however judges will not be
asked to stay longer than necessary if an exhibitor is not present during the assigned judging times. If an
exhibitor misses the class judging entirely, a “No Show” will be registered for the exhibit and ribbons and
premiums will not be awarded. NOTE: Judging will take place in the Exposition Building, 4-H Tents in
Happy Hollow, or the Illinois Building; exhibitors should plan to allow extra time to arrive at these
locations. Check-in and judging times may vary from location to location.
5. Exhibits illustrating inappropriate subject matter and/or graphics are not acceptable. The Superintendents
reserve the right to not display exhibits deemed inappropriate for youth audiences. Items deemed
potentially dangerous to fair-goers may be removed from the exhibit.
6. All exhibits must be identified with an official entry tag. This entry tag is to be completely filled out and
securely attached to the exhibit. (Exception: Food Demonstration and Public Presentation entries do not
need entry tags.)
7. The Illinois State Fair, State 4-H Office, and local University of Illinois Extension personnel or their assigned
agents do not assume liability for loss, theft, or damage to any exhibit.
8. No equipment will be provided for any exhibits. This includes computers, projects, VCR’s, etc. Exhibitors must
furnish any equipment they feel is necessary to properly critique their exhibit. Exhibitors should be aware
that electrical outlets are not always located near judging locations and should take that into consideration
when bringing exhibits. Exhibits that stand over 4’ tall will be placed on the floor. Use of page protectors is
recommended for binder exhibits. Binder exhibits will NOT be labeled “Do Not Touch.”
Space requirements for projects exhibited at the Illinois State Fair no longer have a size requirement.
However, in Knox County all Animal Science Project Displays must meet the size requirement of 2’ wide x
15” deep and be displayed on foam poster board.
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9. Judges are permitted to award Superior ribbons at their discretion to a maximum number of exhibitors per
class. Judges take into account the display and information provided during the interview in determining
Superior ribbon awards. Exhibitors who do not follow the exhibit class guidelines and requirements are
ineligible to receive a Superior ribbon. The judge’s decision that is posted on the official judge’s class list is
final unless it has been determined that an exhibitor has not followed the guidelines or rules for the exhibit
class.
10. Clover Challenge exhibit classes have been added. These classes are only for 15-18 year olds who are
enrolled in Clover Challenge projects in that specific exhibit project area.
11. All entries for non-livestock exhibits should be made by returning your card attached to your exhibit to the
Knox County State Fair table.
CONFERENCE JUDGING FOR MEMBERS
Judging is a learning experience. From which, you can learn what you did well and how that you could improve in
the future. An exhibit does not measure all that you have learned, but it is an example of what you have done.
1. During conference judging, the judge will encourage you to talk about your project exhibit.
2. You will be asked some questions about your exhibit, so you should be prepared to tell what you were trying
to do in your project (goals and objectives) and be able to describe the methods and processes used to
produce the exhibit.
3. Read and follow the rules and requirements for your project carefully.
4. Learn good sportsmanship.
5. Listen carefully to the judge so that you can accept constructive criticism, and learn from it.
6. Remember, judging comments can be helpful, but they are only one person's evaluation.
7. Realize that people sometimes make mistakes.
A MESSAGE TO LEADERS AND PARENTS
Each child is an individual of utmost importance. Keeping this in mind, the leader should try to make 4-H a positive
learning experience. Part of this experience is the 4-H exhibit.
The 4-H exhibit is not an end in itself nor does it measure all the learning that takes place in the 4-H project. The
exhibit is only one measure of success. Self-recognition, self-satisfaction and the learning from completing the
project are important rewards.
1. Discuss the purpose of judging with 4-H members & their parents:
 To evaluate the exhibit which is an example of the child's work.
 To help each member see the process that he/she has made and put judging in perspective.
2. Help the child set realistic goals for himself/herself according to his/her own age and experience.
3. Be sure that your goals are in line with the child's age and experience.
4. Recognize good work. Give constructive criticism.
5. Be familiar with the requirements or criteria of the 4-H project that is to be judged.
6. Be familiar with several methods of accomplishing the desired result.
7. Regardless of who does the judging there are some basic points to keep in mind:
 The development of young people is our first consideration in 4-H work.
 We are really concerned more about what the 4-H'er learns than with the exhibit.
 Projects are a means to an end – not an end in themselves.
 No exhibit is so poorly done that it is not worthy of an encouraging comment.
 No exhibit is so well done that some improvement may not be made.
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8. Judging is done according to quality standards. It is not a matter of personal whim or tastes. The standards area:
 High, but attainable
 Appropriate to different age levels.
 Known by the 4-H members.
9. Exhibits are evaluated, not members. All completed exhibits meeting show requirements will receive a Blue, Red
or White rating. Exhibits are evaluated independently, not compared. Blue meets requirements; Red needs
improvement; White needs much improvement
10. Stress that judging comments can be helpful, but that they are only one person's evaluation.
11. In competition, avoid overemphasis of the winner. Help the child accept the results of the competition and
realize that through his/her own accomplishments everyone is a winner.
University of Illinois Extension
4-H MEMBER CODE OF CONDUCT
ALL participants of the Illinois 4-H/Youth Development program, which is the youth component of programs
planned, conducted, and supervised by University of Illinois Extension, are responsible for their conduct to U
of I Extension personnel and/or volunteers of the 4-H/Youth Development program. 4-H members' behavior
is expected to demonstrate the character traits of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring,
and citizenship. Specifically, 4-H members are expected to maintain the following standards:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Be courteous and respect others.
Obey all rules set by members of their club/group and those set for 4-H activities in which they participate.
Treat all people fairly and animals humanely.
Respect the property of others.
Respect the authority of adult and youth volunteers and others in leadership roles.
Avoid profane and abusive language.
Show kindness to others and give assistance when needed
Be honest and honor commitments.
Do their best and keep trying to improve.
Accept responsibility for their own choices.
The following conduct will not be allowed while participating in any 4-H event or activity and is subject to
disciplinary action:
a) Possession, use, or distribution of alcohol and other controlled substances, including tobacco
products.*
b) Theft or destruction of public or private property.
c) Involvement in sexual misconduct or harassment.
d) Unauthorized possession or use of weapons or dangerous materials (including fireworks).
e) Fighting or other acts of violence.
*Information about prescription drugs should be provided to club leader or coordinator of the 4-H activity.
GENERAL SHOW PROJECTS
AEROSPACE
Aerospace: Model Rocketry
Exhibit one model rocket assembled by the member. The exhibit will be a static display. The model rocket
should be in good flying condition. DO NOT include the rocket engine with your exhibit. The rockets will
not be launched. Attach the printed directions for construction of the rocket if any were used.
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Aerospace: Aerospace Display
(Open to youth in Aerospace 2, Aerospace 3, and Aerospace 4)
Prepare a display related to the aerospace project which does not fit in the model rocketry class. The
exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations,
programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever
method best shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit.
Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a
printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic
equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the
entire exhibit period.
Aerospace Clover Challenge
(Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Aerospace Clover Challenge project who have completed
Aerospace Units 2, 3, and 4.) Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H
project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The
agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
ANIMAL SCIENCE
ALL items in the display should be affixed to the foam display board. NO additional items should be included.
Table displays are limited to 2’ wide x 15” deep. (Open to members in Beef, Cats, Dairy, Dogs, Goats, Horse & Pony,
Poultry, Rabbits, Sheep, Small Pets, and Swine)
Animal Science
Prepare a display focusing on any activity related to the animal science project. Demonstrate the skills
and knowledge you have gained through the animal project you studied. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. Live
animals are not permitted as exhibits in this area. For safety reasons, exhibits cannot include glass,
syringes with needles or any other sharp objects.
Animal Science Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Animal Science clover challenge project area who have
completed all levels of an animal project. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what
the 4-H project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit
may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
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The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The
agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
BICYCLE
NOT State Fair Eligible
Bicycle I
Exhibitors will draw three situations from a bag that relate to activities from Level 1 and discuss/explain
all three with the judge. Situations may include: Selecting bicycle safety equipment; Demonstrate how to
fit a helmet; Identify bike parts and their function; Selecting the right size bike; How to check bicycle
tires, brakes and chains; Recognizing traffic signs and their meaning; General discussion of bicycling
hazards; and Items to consider when planning a bike trip.
Bicycle II: Wheels in Motion
Exhibitors will draw three situations from a bag that relate to activities from Level 2 and discuss/explain
all three with the judge. Situations may include: Factors to consider when choosing a bike; Comparing
tire pressure, valve type and tread; Steps in fixing a flat tire; Steps to follow when cleaning, lubricating
and replacing a bike chain; Evaluating the braking system on a bicycle; Factors to consider when mapping
out a bike route; Rules for smart bike riding; and Planning a menu for an all-day bike ride.
CAT
NOT State Fair Eligible
Cat I: Purrr-fect, Cat II: Climbing Up, Cat III: Leaping Forward
All classes - Bring your cat to the 4-H Show for a health and grooming check. Cat must be on a leash, in a
carrying box or cage.
1. All cats (4 months and older) must have proof of current rabies vaccination. Current records
(rabies and distemper) must accompany animal to be included with the member’s exhibit.
2. Feline leukemia vaccinations are optional around 4 months of age.
3. All animals should be free of disease and parasites (fleas, mites and ticks).
4. Exhibit, with cat, a written report at least one page in length. Topics are to be related to cat care,
such as feeding schedule, grooming procedures, trip to veterinarians, etc.
5. Exhibitors will be asked questions related to both their own cat (for example, what and how often
to feed, special grooming, ever had kittens, etc.) and questions relating to their report (where did
you find this information, has your cat ever had this problem, etc.).
6. Scoring and ribbon awards will be based on the number of years in the project and age of 4-H
member.
7. Exhibitors should arrive for their scheduled conference judging time. All cats should be taken
home by 1:00 p.m. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal during show
time have the option to prepare a display and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal
Science display.
8. For cat clover challenge, please see clover challenge under Animal Science II.
CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Child Development I: (NOT a State Fair Eligible Project)
Exhibit one of the following options developed by the
member from the Level 1 book.
 My Learning Box filled with things that help you learn and have fun. On a note card or paper,
explain how you have used the box;
OR
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
Prepare a choke-tube tester display labeled with toys that are “safe” and “not safe.” On a note
card or paper, explain why the toys are safe or not safe for young children and how others can
test toys for safety.
Child Development II:
Exhibit one of the following options developed by the member from the Level 2 project book:
 Include the following three items that would be appropriate for a child of a specific age: a toy
made by the member, a song or game, and a story or story book that would be appropriate for a
child of a specific age. On a note card or page of paper, indicate the age of the child and how the
items fit into the interests, abilities and safety considerations of that age child; OR
 Prepare a display of 6 toys and/or activities (at least one being made by the 4-H member).
Include two items for each of the following three age groups: Infant/Toddler; Pre-School; and
School Age. On a note card or page of paper, for each toy and activity indicate the age of the
child and how that item fits into their interests, abilities and safety considerations.
Child Development III:
Exhibit one or more of the following items developed by the member from the Level 3 project book:
 a child care career game;
OR
 a display representing a community service activity;
OR
 a teaching plan for use in a child care setting (2-4 hour time span);
AND/OR
 a plan for neighborhood Olympics activity.
Child Development Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Child Development 2 or
3. Demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained through the Child Development project. The
exhibit may be the result of knowledge gained from project manuals, interaction with child development
professionals, and/or individual exploration in the area of child development. Exhibit may include, but is
not limited to child behavior, ages and stages of child development, or career exploration related to child
development or child care. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects,
demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which
you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. Your exhibit should not fit in
the other exhibit options for this project. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit.
Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a
printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic
equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the
entire exhibit period.
Child Development Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Child Development Clover Challenge project who have
completed Child Development Units 1, 2, and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond”
what the 4-H project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The
exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations,
programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever
method best shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit.
Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a
printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic
equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the
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entire exhibit period. The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with
the exhibit. The agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
CITIZENSHIP
Citizenship I
Exhibit a display illustrating one of the following options: 1) personal information
about yourself – who you are, things you like to do, things you are good at, your
favorites; 2) your feelings and how you handle these feelings; 3) your family, their
responsibilities, how you work together; OR 4) the Family Pedigree that may include family group pages.
Citizenship II
Exhibit a display illustrating one of the following options: 1) your neighborhood; 2) how you were a good
neighbor or led a service project for your community; OR 3) a Citizenship Challenge that you helped
organize and lead (see the project book for details).
Citizenship III
Exhibit a display illustrating one of the activities that you completed within your project as it relates to
one of the following categories in the manual: 1) Government; 2) Business and Industry;
3) Transportation, Communication & Utilities; 4) Culture & Heritage; 5) Natural Resources &
Environment; 6) Education; 7) Organizations within your community; 8) Tourism; OR 9) Support Systems
within your community.
Citizenship Clover Challenge:
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Citizenship Clover Challenge project who have completed
Citizenship Units 1, 2, and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H
project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The
agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
Service Learning I (NOT a State Fair Eligible Project)
Exhibit a binder portfolio to reflect what the exhibitor accomplished in the four steps of service learning.
If exhibitor has been enrolled in project for multiple years, the binder portfolio should include previous
years’ work. Use of page protectors is recommended.
Service Learning II (NOT a State Fair Eligible Project)
Exhibit a binder portfolio to reflect what the exhibitor accomplished in the four steps of service learning.
If the exhibitor has been enrolled in the project for multiple years (including Service Learning I), the
binder portfolio should include the previous years’ work. Use of page protectors is recommended.
CLOTHING & TEXTILES
SPECIAL NOTES: Members wishing to exhibit knitted items should be enrolled in Visual Arts and exhibit in Fiber
(if original) or Heritage Arts (if made from a pattern). Members wishing to exhibit quilts should be enrolled in
either Interior Design or Visual Arts (Fiber if original, or Heritage Arts if made from a pattern). Garments
constructed for another person are eligible for exhibiting in all sewing classes.
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Exhibitors bringing garments should plan to wear the garment as part of the judging process. If the garment(s)
were constructed for another individual, that individual must be present to wear the garment for the judge. (Only
the exhibitor who made the garment is eligible for ribbon and premium.) Construction and appearance will both
be considered. If a pattern was used to make the garment, the pattern instructions are to be included with the
exhibit. Garment/items should be covered in a clear plastic bag (no garment bags). Exhibit tags should be
attached to the GARMENT, not to the hanger.
Sewing & Textiles I
Exhibit any of the following:
 Non clothing, constructed article (sew and/or serge) – One of the following items made by the
member: 9-patch pillow, square pillow, tote bag OR shopping bag;
OR
 Constructed garment – A simple article of clothing.
Sewing & Textiles II
Exhibit either of the following:
 Non clothing – Any non-wearable item made by member;
OR
 Constructed garment – Any garment with facings or curves.
Sewing & Textiles III, New Construction: Exhibit either of the following:
 Non clothing: Any non-wearable item made by member; OR
 Constructed garment: Any garment constructed by the member which is appropriate for the age and
experience of the member. (Possible examples are: wool garment, polar fleece garment, dress or jacket
with set in sleeves and zipper or buttons and button holes, suits, evening wear or sport outfit.)
Sewing & Textiles 3, Recycled: Exhibit either of the following:
 Non-clothing: A modified/redesigned/recycled item you purchased and “salvaged” by significantly
altering the original design. A 3” x 5” minimum size photo of the original item(s) before recycling should
be included; OR
 Constructed garment: A modified/redesigned/recycled garment you purchased and “salvaged” by
significantly altering the original design. A 3” x 5” minimum size photo of the original garment(s) before
recycling should be included.
Clothing Decisions I (Not a State Fair Eligible Project) (Recommended age level 6-8 grade)
Exhibit a display of one completed activity from the project book. Inclusion of an actual purchased item is
optional. If the exhibitor purchased a garment for their project they could exhibit in the County Fashion
Review class and be selected to participate in Fashion Review at State Fair.
Clothing Decisions II (Not a State Fair Eligible Project)(Recommended age level 9-12 grade)
Exhibit a display of one completed activity from the project book. Inclusion of an actual purchased item is
optional. If the exhibitor purchased a garment for their project they could exhibit in the County Fashion
Review class and be selected to participate in Fashion Review at State Fair.
Clothing & Textiles Clover Challenge
(Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Sewing Clover Challenge project who have completed Sewing
& Textiles Units 1, 2, and 3.) Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
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be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
Fashion Revue
Exhibitors must have been selected during their 2015 Fashion Revue for state fair competition. Modeled
items must be garments constructed or purchased by the exhibitor and must be worn by the exhibitor.
(Pillows or other non-garment items are not appropriate for Fashion Revue). Exhibitors in this class may
be enrolled in any of the following projects: Clothing & Textiles Clover Challenge, Sewing & Textiles,
Clothing Decisions, and/or Knitting. (NOTE: Knitted exhibits fall under Visual Arts, however knitted
garments may still be considered for Fashion Revue.) This class is a competitive event; the top models
each day will receive special recognition. Models will be judged on the following criteria: Selection of
Garment (20 pts.); Fit (25 pts.); Personal Grooming (25 pts.); and Stage Presence (30 pts.). SPECIAL
INFORMATION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL STATE FAIR ENTRIES. Please see the county office for additional
information.
COMMUNICATIONS
NOT State Fair Eligible
Communications I
For 1st year enrolled in project: Exhibit a binder portfolio showcasing at least three activities from the
project manual. Show basic activities and anything that extended lessons. For 2nd and 3rd years in project:
Include everything from earlier years’ work and add section showcasing at least four additional activities
per year. Use of page protectors is recommended.
Communications II AND Communications III
For 1st year enrolled in project: Exhibit a binder portfolio showcasing at least three activities from the
project manual. Show basic activities and anything that extended lessons. For 2nd and 3rd years in project:
Include everything from earlier years’ work and add section showcasing at least four additional activities
per year. Use of page protectors is recommended.
Communications Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Communications clover challenge project area.
Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books cover. Exhibit a
display illustrating the Clover Challenge area that you explored. This could include anything NOT covered
in the project book, including but not limited to career exploration or an in-depth study of a specific topic
in that project’s subject matter. The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be
presented with the exhibit, found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
Journalism
Exhibit a binder portfolio showing the results of the appropriate year’s activities noted below:
Year 1: Accomplishments of a minimum of 5, 2-star activities from Part 1, answering all of the
questions in the activities.
Year 2: Results of doing a minimum of 5, 2-star activities in Part 2, answering all the questions in the
activities.
Year 3: Results of doing a minimum of 5, 3-star activities from Parts 1 and 2. One of the activities
must include writing an advance story, a follow-up story, or a feature story.
Year 4: Results of doing at least 2, 2-star activities and 3, 3-star activities from Part 3. If the activities
include making an audio or videotape, State Fair will provide a way for the judge to view or listen to
it.
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COMPUTER SCIENCE
Exhibitors may bring computer equipment for demonstration purposes. Computers will not be furnished.
Internet connections are not available for use by exhibitors. Any member found to be using computer software
in a manner that infringes on copyright laws will be disqualified.
Computer Science Introduction
Create a computer presentation to share what you have learned about computer basics or using the
Internet to gather information; OR exhibit a printed or electronic copy of product(s) using office software
applications. Bring a board display or a laptop computer to share your work. All exhibits must include
something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the
exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain
on display during the entire exhibit period.
Computer Science 1
Create a computer presentation to share what you have learned about computer operating systems,
troubleshooting, tuning-up a computer, or other topics listed in your manual. Bring a board display or a
laptop computer to share your work. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of
a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only
be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Exhibits that pertain to programming efforts should be placed in Beginning Programming or Advanced
Projects.
Computer Science 2
Create a computer presentation to share what you have learned about creating and using computer
networks or using networks for online collaborations. Bring a board display or a laptop computer to share
your work. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation,
which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your
personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. Exhibits that
pertain to programming efforts should be placed in Beginning Programming or Advanced Projects.
Computer Science 3
Create a computer presentation to share what you have learned about teaching others how to use
computers, technology needs or resources in your community, activities to create access to technology,
or other topics listed in your manual. Bring a board display or a laptop computer to share your work. All
exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain
on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging
time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Beginning Programming
(Open to youth in Computers Intro, 1, 2, or 3) Exhibit a simple program using Scratch (or other simple
graphic programming language). The program should include 8 different commands including looping
and getting input from the keyboard and mouse. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a
poster or printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition.
Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display
during the entire exhibit period.
Intermediate Programming
(Open to youth in Computers Intro, 1, 2, or 3) Exhibit a program using Scratch (or other simple graphic
programming) that you have downloaded from the internet and modified. Compare the two programs
and demonstrate the changes you made to the original program; OR create an animated storybook using
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Scratch (or other simple graphical programming language). All exhibits must include something visual,
such as a poster or printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the
exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain
on display during the entire exhibit period.
Advanced Programming
(Open to youth in Computers Intro, 1, 2, or 3) Exhibit a video game you have created in Scratch (or other
simple graphic programming). All exhibits must include something visual, such as a poster or printed copy
of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will
only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit
period.
Website Design
Open to youth in Computers Intro, 1, 2, or 3. Exhibit an original website that you have designed. Internet
access will not be provided, so exhibitors must supply their own internet hot spot or the website must be
hosted on the exhibitor’s computer). All exhibits must include something visual, such as a poster or
printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic
equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the
entire exhibit period.
Computer Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in a computer project.
Exhibit an original program using a higher level programming language such as Python, Javascript, C++,
etc. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a poster or printed copy of a digital presentation,
which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your
personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Computer Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Computer Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Computer Units 1, 2, and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
CONSUMER EDUCATION
NOT State Fair Eligible
Consumer Savvy I: The Consumer in Me
Exhibit a display based on a purchase made this year. Incorporate at least two activities
from the project manual that illustrate that your purchase was well planned and researched.
Consumer Savvy II: Consumer Wise
Exhibit a display illustrating use of the six-step decision-making process in making a wise purchase.
Incorporate at least two other learning activities from the project manual used to help you make a wise
decision.
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Consumer Savvy III: Consumer Roadmap
Exhibit a display based on what you learned from at least one activity from the project manual.
Entrepreneurship: Be the E!
Exhibit a binder portfolio or display that includes the results of at least two completed activities from
each year exhibitor has been enrolled in the project. Completed activities from previous years should be
included. Use of page protectors is recommended. Exhibit will NOT be labeled “Do Not Touch.”
Financial Champions 1
Exhibit any product or display made to illustrate a completed activity from the project book. The activity
should relate to the member’s age and experience. Photocopies of the completed activities from the
book (or the actual book) should be included in the display.
Financial Champions 2
Exhibit any product or display made to illustrate a completed activity from the project book. The activity
should relate to the member’s age and experience. Photocopies of the completed activities from the
book (or the actual book) should be included in the display.
CROPS
All Crops exhibited must have been grown and cared for by .0the exhibitor as part of their current 4-H Crops
project. Popcorn and sweet corn should be exhibited in Vegetable Gardening.
Soybeans
Exhibit five fresh plants (include root system that is washed) that are representative of member’s 4-H
project field;
OR
Exhibit an experimental or educational project related to one experience from your project. Include
explanation of the project in a report for public understanding. Include the member’s crop records with
the exhibit, such as the 4-H Crop record found online @
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lms/downloads/4132.pdf, an FFA crops record or similar information.
Corn
Exhibit two fresh plants of field corn (include root system that is washed), that is representative of
member’s 4-H project field;
OR
Exhibit an experimental or educational project related to one experience from your project. Include
explanation of the project in a report for public understanding. Include the member’s crop records with
the exhibit, such as the 4-H Crop record found online @
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lms/downloads/4132.pdf, an FFA crops record or similar information.
Small Grains
Exhibit one gallon of the current year's crop of oats, wheat, rye, or barley that is representative of the
member’s 4-H project field;
OR
Exhibit an experimental or educational project related to one experience from your project. Include
explanation of the project in a report for public understanding. Include the member’s crop records with
the exhibit, such as the 4-H Crop record found online @
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lms/downloads/4132.pdf, an FFA crops record or similar information.
Crops Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Crops. Demonstrate the
skills and knowledge you have gained through the Crops project. This could be related to, but not limited
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to crop production, crop utilization or topics of interest to the member related to agronomy. The exhibit
may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You
must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the
exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which
will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal
judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Crops Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Crops Clover Challenge Project who have completed all levels
of Crops. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books cover and
should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to,
original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps,
performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided
for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
DOG
June 27, 2015
Dog I: Wiggles 'N Wags, Dog II: Canine Connection, Dog III: Leading the Pack
DOG CARE
Bring your dog to the Knox County fairgrounds for a health and grooming check. Dog must be on a leash and/or
in a carrying case.
1. All dogs (4 months and older) must have proof of current rabies vaccination. Complete and current
vaccination records (rabies, distemper and parvo) must accompany animal to be included with the
member’s exhibit.
2. Exhibit with dog, a written report or other type display, completed by 4-H member on a related dog
care topic based on their age category. Topics are to be related to dog care, such as feeding
schedule, grooming procedures, trip to veterinarian's office, etc. You may also select to report on an
activity done from the project manual.
3. Dogs are expected to be well groomed and free of ticks and/or fleas. Exhibitors are expected to be
well groomed as well.
4. All dogs are to be handled only by the member during judging. Parents, friends or siblings are not
allowed near the judging area. Exhibitors should use proper handling techniques and must have
control of their dog at all times. Dogs that are unruly or causing problems may be asked to leave the
area to avoid distracting other animals. Dogs that show viciousness toward its handler, judge, other
dogs or humans will be excused from further competition. Handlers are responsible for cleaning up
after their dog, if necessary.
5. Exhibitors will be asked questions related to both their own dog (for example what and how often to
feed, special grooming, ever had puppies, etc.) and questions relating to their report or exhibit
(where did you find this information, has your dog ever had this problem, etc.)
6. Scoring and ribbon awards will be based on the number of years in the project and age of the 4-H
member. Score sheets are available in the Extension office for judging reference and may be
requested at any time.
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7. Dogs should be at health check area at their scheduled conference judging time and should be taken
home by 1:30 PM unless participating in dog obedience or showmanship show. Dogs not
participating in the dog obedience show are not allowed in the show area for any reason (swine
show ring) for risk management purposes.
8. Exhibitors unable to participate during the dog show for any reason would be expected to prepare an
exhibit for the general show under the Animal Science category. Sign up for Animal Science display.
9. For dog clover challenge please see Clover Challenge under Animal Science.
10. Exhibitors are encouraged to sign-up for both Dog Care and Dog Obedience and Showmanship.
11. Dog care is not eligible for State Fair. If you wish to be considered for State Fair with the Dog Project,
sign up for the Animal Science Display.
12. Special problems or concerns of the exhibitor not covered by the above rules will be acted upon by
the Dog Superintendent and/or members of the Extension General Show Committee.
DOG OBEDIENCE AND SHOWMANSHIP
Rules for Exhibitors
1. Required: for the safety of all participants, spectators, and animals, exhibitors must have
completed an approved obedience training class (attended at least 6 sessions with their dog) prior
to this exhibition.
2. All dogs being shown in the dog obedience project must be trained by and belong to the exhibitor or
to a member of the exhibitor’s immediate family; or the dog can be leased.
3. Exhibitors are limited to one entry/dog in each obedience class. The same dog cannot be entered in
two different Obedience classes, but the same dog can be shown in an Obedience Class and a
Showmanship class.
4. If a State Fair qualifying score of 170 was achieved previously, a dog cannot be repeat the same
class except in Graduate Novice, Pre Open, Open, Graduate Open, and Utility. Exhibitors may show
for two (2) years in Graduate Novice providing the dog does not have a CDX or qualified for a leg on a
CDX. Open and Utility exhibitors can show for three (3) years in these classes (Exception: if a dog has
3 qualifying scores for a degree prior to 6 months of the 4-H Dog Obedience Show, it must be shown
in the next highest class).
5. Exhibitor may enter Beginner Novice I class only once. After exhibiting in the Beginner Novice I
class, he or she must advance to Beginner Novice II Class or Pre Novice Class.
6. If a State Fair qualifying score was achieved by a member too young to exhibit at State Fair (10
years old by September 1, 2014), that exhibitor may repeat the class the following year (exception:
Beginner Novice I may not be repeated).
7. All dogs must be leashed or crated while on the fairgrounds and under the supervision and control of
the exhibitor at all times. Dogs and their handlers should remain in the designated waiting areas
except as required for the show.
8. Acceptable leashes are 6 ft. leather, nylon, or canvas. No prong or electronic collars are allowed on
dogs on the fairgrounds. Collars with identification tags are not show collars and should not be used
in the show rings. Harnesses or other training aids (i.e. gentle leader) are not show collars.
9. Dogs do not have to be AKC registered to show in the Obedience or Showmanship show. AKC rules
will be used for judging. If a dog has 3 qualifying scores for a degree prior to 6 months of the State
Fair 4-H Dog Obedience Show, it must be shown in the next highest class. See Rule #4 for exceptions.
10. Female dogs in season cannot participate in the county 4-H Dog Show or in the State Fair Dog Show.
Female dogs in season may not be present on the fairgrounds.
11. A run-off will be held in case of a tie for total score. All beginning level classes will use on-leash
heeling exercises. All advanced classes will use novice off-lead heeling exercises.
12. This is a State Fair qualifying exhibition opportunity and all State Fair rules and requirements will be
followed.
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13. To be eligible for advancement to State Fair, a dog and handler team must have a qualifying score of
170 points for all classes. Exhibitor must be 10 years old (by September 1, 2014) to advance to State
Fair.
14. Signals given by the handler will be either voice or hand. Only 1 type of signal is used for each
exercise.
15. Exercises for all classes may be done in any order, depending upon scheduling and the judge’s
preference.
16. Unless specified in the class requirements, Long Sit and Long Down exercises may be judged as a
group, at the judge’s discretion.
Other opportunities to achieve State Fair qualifying scores exist at the Mercer County Junior Dog Obedience
Show and at AKC Obedience Trials. Exhibitors may participate in these shows at their own discretion, and are
responsible for obtaining their score sheet, signed and dated by the judge, and turning in with their State
Fair entry form.
Dog I: Wiggles ‘N Wags, Dog II: Canine Connections, Dog III: Leading the Pack
1. Exhibitors may only exhibit one dog in each obedience class. The same dog may be shown in the
appropriate exhibitor’s showmanship class.
2. Complete current vaccination records (rabies, distemper and parvo) must accompany animal to
dog show arena if the dog was not shown in dog care.
3. Your obedience dog will be required to move to the next level if you received a state qualifying
score at both the local and state levels. Dogs receiving qualifying scores at the local and state
competitions in all levels higher than Novice are allowed to remain at that level for multiple
years. Beginner I dogs who receive state qualifying scores at the local and state level will move
to Pre Novice, all others will move to Beginner Novice II. New dogs with experienced handlers
also start with Beginner II. You may use the same dog for the Showmanship classes for multiple
years.
4. Beginner Novice I class is for new handlers and first year previously untrained dogs.
5. Beginner Novice II class is for experienced handlers (at least second year in training) and a new
previously untrained dog or inexperienced handler with an experienced dog. This class is also for
members who did not earn a qualifying score in Beginner Novice I the previous year. Depending
on the circumstances listed in items 3-5 above, it may or may not be a follow up to Beginner
Novice I.
6. Pre Novice is a follow up class to either Beginner Novice I or Beginner Novice II followed by
Novice and Advanced Novice.
7. A dog being shown in dog obedience and showmanship must be trained by and belong to the
exhibitor or to a member of his/her immediate family. The dog may also be leased from another
owner in order to participate in obedience and/or showmanship, but a signed lease agreement
must be prepared. A copy of the lease must be on file by May 1 in the Extension office.
8. Dogs will be expected to execute all American Kennel Club (AKC) obedience exercises
appropriate for their class. Dogs do not have to be AKC registered to participate, however, AKC
rules will be used for judging. All dogs are required to attend a MINIMUM of six training sessions
within 3 months prior to participating in the obedience program. You may attend the sessions
provided for 4-H members, or you may attend training at a site of your choice. If you chose to
attend at another location, proof of completion must be provided when checking in at the
obedience competition.
9. All dogs must be shown with a six foot leather, nylon or canvas leash and must be under the
exhibitor's control at all times. A proper fitting choke collar is required for obedience. Spike
collars, prong collars or electronic collars may be used for training purposes, but are not allowed
in competition. Regular collars with or without tags are not allowed in competition or training. A
location will be determined for handlers, dogs and family members during the show.
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10. Female dogs in season will not be allowed to participate.
11. Grand champion dog obedience will be determined by the high point dog of the day. In case of a
tie for the grand champion in dog obedience, a run off will be held. All beginner classes will use
on leash healing exercise. All other classes will use off leash healing exercises.
12. The overall dog champion for the day will be determined by equal points for dog care, obedience
and showmanship. This award will be announced at the end of the Dog Show program.
13. A dog that shows viciousness toward its handler, judge, other dogs or humans will be excused
from further competition. Handlers are responsible for cleaning up after their dog, if necessary.
Beginner Novice I Class (For inexperienced handlers and inexperienced dogs)
ALL EXERCISES ARE DONE ON LEASH
1. Heel on Leash (forward, halt, right turn, left turn, slow, normal and fast). The last order
signifies that the handler and dog must break pace. These orders may be given verbally or by
utilizing posted signs
2. Figure Eight
3. Sit for Exam
4. Sit Stay
5. Recall
Beginner Novice II Class (For experienced handlers and experienced dogs OR experienced dogs and
inexperienced handlers.)
ALL EXERCISES ARE DONE ON LEASH
Classes same as Beginner Novice I
Pre Novice Class
1. Heel on Leash and Figure 8
2. Stand for Examination
3. Recall
4. Heel Free
5. Stay Sit or Down
Novice Class
1. Heel on Leash and Figure 8
2, Stand for Examination (off leash)
3. Heel Free (off leash)
4. Recall (off leash)
5. Long Sit - 1 minute (off leash)
6. Long Down – 3 minutes (off leash)
(Exercises 4 and 5 will be judged as a group)
Graduate Novice Class
1. Heel on Leash and Figure 8 (off leash)
2. Drop on Recall
3. Dumbbell Recall
4. Recall over High Jump
5. Recall over Broad Jump
6. Long Down - 3 minutes (Handler out of sight)
(Exercise 6 will be judged as a group)
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Pre-Open Class
1. Heel on Free and Figure 8
2. Drop on Recall
3. Retrieve on Flat
4. Retrieve over High Jump
5. Broad Jump
Open Class
1. Heel Free and Figure 8
2. Drop on Recall
3. Retrieve on Flat
4. Retrieve over High Jump
5. Broad Jump
6. Long Sit -3 minutes (Handler out of sight)
7. Long Down - 5 minutes (Handler out of sight)
(Exercises 6 and 7 will be judged as a group)
ELECTRICITY
It is strongly suggested that members use recommended construction details including proper color coding
provided by the Energy Education Council (EEC) that have been provided on the EEC 4-H website;
http://www.energyedcouncil.org/4-H.html.
Electricity I
(May only be battery-powered projects using battery components and wiring). Projects using paper clips,
cardboard, thumbtacks, & brads are not eligible for state fair exhibits. All projects must include a
report explaining how the project was constructed and the principles demonstrated.
Recommendations can be found on the website. Exhibit:
 A momentary switch, simple switch, or basic circuit; OR
 An Electromagnet; OR
 A Galvanometer; OR
 An Electric motor.
Electricity II
(May only be battery-powered projects using battery components and
wiring) Projects using paper clips, cardboard, thumbtacks, & brads are not
eligible for state fair exhibits. All projects must include a report explaining
how the project was constructed and the principles demonstrated.
Recommendations can be found on the website.
Exhibit:
 A Circuit board demonstrating parallel and series switches, including a circuit diagram; OR
 3-way or 4-way switch circuit using DC/battery; OR
 Basic electrical device (examples: Rocket launcher, burglar alarm, etc).
Electricity III
All electricity projects must include a report, explaining how the project was constructed, and
principles for its operation. Recommendations can be found on the website. Exhibit:
 A 120V lighting fixture or other appliance which uses a switch; OR
 Two electrical household circuits using 120V materials to comply with National Electrical Code,
one with a simple on/off switch to control bulb, and one using 3-way switches to control light
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from two locations; OR
 Other project which demonstrates principles in the Wired for Power book.
Electricity IV: Entering Electronics (Not State Fair Eligible)
Exhibit any electronic or solid state appliance. Exhibitor must be able to explain how the project was
constructed, how it is to be used and how it works. When project is being constructed, general safety and
workmanship should be considered.
Electricity Clover Challenge:
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Electricity Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Electricity Units 1, 2, and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
Clover Challenge: Electronics (Not State Fair Eligible)
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Electronics clover challenge project area.
Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books cover. Exhibit a
display illustrating the Clover Challenge area that you explored. This could include anything NOT covered
in the project book, including but not limited to career exploration or an in-depth study of a specific topic
in that project’s subject matter. The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be
presented with the exhibit. The agreement can be found at:
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
ENTOMOLOGY
Size and number of exhibit cases should relate appropriately to the number of insects being displayed for a
specified class. Cases should be no deeper than 4”. Exhibitors should note that Entomology exhibits may be
placed UPRIGHT for display.
Entomology I
Exhibit 15 or more species representing four or more orders. Collection must be accurately labeled.
Exhibitors must also include the Entomology 1 project manual, Teaming With Insects 1, with at least one
completed activity for each year enrolled. The project manual must be included. Rules for pinning and
labeling insects are available from your local Extension office.
Entomology II
Exhibit 30 or more species representing eight or more orders. Collection must be accurately labeled.
Exhibitors must also include the Entomology 2 project manual, Teaming With Insects 2, with at least one
completed activity for each year enrolled. The project manual must be included. Rules for pinning and
labeling insects are available from your local Extension office.
Entomology III
Exhibit 60 or more species representing twelve or more orders. Collection must be accurately labeled.
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Exhibitors must also include the Entomology 3 project manual, Teaming With Insects 3, with at least one
completed activity for each year enrolled. The project manual must be included. Rules for pinning and
labeling insects are available from your local Extension office.
Entomology Display, Other
Open to youth enrolled in Entomology 1, Entomology 2 or Entomology 3. Exhibit any activity or display
related to Entomology that does not fit into Entomology Classes 1, 2 or 3 above. The exhibit may include,
but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Entomology Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Entomology Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Entomology Units 1, 2, and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H
project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The
agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
FLORICULTURE
Floriculture A
Exhibit one of the following options:
 Create a flower arrangement; either a round
arrangement or a bud vase. No silk flowers are
permitted;
OR
 Create a photo collage or a collection of pictures of
flowers that you have raised. Label your flowers by
name and tell if you started with a seed, cutting or
transplants. Mount pictures on a poster board;
OR
 Exhibit in one container, 3 stems of blooms - each with attached foliage. Foliage that would go
inside the container may be removed. All three blooms or stems to be the same variety, color,
shape and size and must have been grown from seed, young seedling plants, bulbs or rhizomes
by the exhibitor. (NOTE: Exhibitors choosing lilies should include no more than 2/3 of foliage for
their exhibit.)
Floriculture B
Exhibit one of the following options:
 Create an artistic display of dried flowers explaining how each was dried;
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
OR
Create a photo collage or collection of pictures of plants from your theme garden. Label your
plants by name and explain how the plants were chosen to fit the theme.
Floriculture C
Exhibit one of the following options:
 Create a terrarium or dish garden. Plants should have been started by the exhibitor from cuttings
or seeds or as purchased plugs. The terrarium must be cared for by the exhibitor for at least 5
months.
OR
 Exhibit a plant that you propagated from cuttings, layering or division or started from seed.
Create a photo board showing the progression of growth. Tips for vegetative propagation of
houseplants can be found at University of Illinois Extension houseplants,
http://urbanext.illinois.edu/houseplants/default.cfm.
Floriculture D
Exhibit one of the following options:
 Create a centerpiece around a theme such as a wedding, holiday, birthday, etc. No silk flowers
are permitted;
OR
 Create an exhibit of forced bulbs in a pot.
Floriculture Display
Open to youth enrolled in Floriculture A, Floriculture B, Floriculture C, and Floriculture D.
Present an exhibit of the member’s choice that focuses on some aspect of floriculture which does not fit
in the categories above. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects,
demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which
you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any
equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits
must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on
display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time
and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Floriculture Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Floriculture Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Floriculture A, B, C and D.) Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
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FOODS & NUTRITION
4-H Cooking 101
Using the recipes included in the project manual,
prepare an exhibit of 3 cereal marshmallow bars, OR
¼ of 8” square or round coffeecake, OR 3 cookies. No
icing should be on any products. Include the recipe
and a menu for one meal including the food item.
The recipe and menu may be written or typed on a
note card or on a piece of paper. Bars, coffeecake, or
cookies should be displayed on a disposable plate
placed in a zip-sealing plastic bag.
4-H Cooking 201
Using the recipes included in the project manual,
prepare an exhibit of 3 cheese muffins; OR 3 scones,
OR 1 loaf (9” x 5”) of basic nut bread (NO variations
from the core recipes). Include the recipe and a menu
for one meal including the food item. The recipe and
menu may be written or typed on a note card or on a
piece of paper. Bread, muffins, or scones should be
displayed on a disposable plate placed in a zip-sealing
plastic bag.
4-H Cooking 301
Using the recipes included in the project manual,
prepare an exhibit of 3 dinner rolls; OR loaf of yeast
bread; OR 1 tea ring; OR 3 sweet rolls; OR one layer of a Rich White Cake or Rich Chocolate Cake, top
side up (without frosting). If icing is used on the tea ring or sweet rolls, the recipe for the icing must also
come from the book. The yeast bread/roll dough may be prepared in a bread making machine; however
prepared mixes are not permitted. Include the recipe and a menu for a special occasion meal that
includes the food item exhibited. The recipe and menu may be written or typed on a note card or piece
of paper. Display exhibit on a disposable plate or pie tin and place in a zip-sealing plastic bag.
4-H Cooking 401
Using the recipes included in the project manual, prepare an exhibit of ¼ of a 15” x 10” loaf of focaccia
bread (do not include dipping oil), OR one baked pie shell – traditional, oil, or whole wheat (no graham
cracker), OR ¼ Golden Sponge Cake, top side up, without frosting, OR ½ loaf German Rye Bread. Include
the recipe and a menu for a special occasion meal that includes the food item exhibit. The recipe and
menu may be written or typed on a note card or piece of paper. Display exhibit on a disposable plate and
place in a zip-sealing plastic bag.
Outdoor Meals: S’Mores and More (NOT state fair eligible.)
Using the recipe included in the project manual, prepare an exhibit of 3 Breakfast Cookies. Include the
recipe and a menu for one meal including the food item. The recipe and menu may be written or typed
on a note card or a piece of paper. Cookies should be displayed on a disposable plate placed in a zipsealing plastic bag.
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Microwave Magic A
Prepare an exhibit of 4 pieces of fudge or peanut butter fudge using
the recipes in the project manual. Include a menu for a healthy lunch
using the food item. Fudge should be displayed on a disposable plate
placed in a zip-sealing plastic bag.
Microwave Magic B
Prepare an exhibit of 3 chocolate chip bar cookies using the recipe in
the project manual. Include a menu for one meal using the food item. Bar cookies should be displayed on
a disposable plate placed in a zip-sealing plastic bag.
Microwave Magic C
Prepare an exhibit of ¼ of the coffee cake, including the outer edge, using the recipe from the project
manual. Include a menu for one meal using the food item. Coffee cake should be displayed on a
disposable plate placed in a zip-sealing plastic bag.
Microwave Magic D: Presto Meals
Prepare an exhibit of ¼ of the carrot cake, including the outer edge and without frosting, from the recipe
in the project manual. Include a menu for one meal using the food item. Carrot cake should be displayed
on a disposable plate placed in a zip-sealing plastic bag.
Meat & Other Protein Sources (Not state fair eligible.)
Prepare a nutrition education display related to one of four topics from this project manual: nutritional
value, food safety, food preparation, or food buying of meat and other protein sources. There is NOT a
food exhibit option for this class.
Food Preservation
Prepare an exhibit using ONE of the following food preservation methods: canning; freezing; drying;
pickles/relishes; jams, jellies and preserves OR a combination of these (see Preservation Combination
option below), excluding Freezing. No freezer jam exhibits will be allowed for Freezing; Jams, Jellies,
and Preserves; or for the Preservation Combination options.
 Canning – The exhibit should include two different canned foods in appropriate jars for the
products. Food may be fruit, vegetable, or tomato product (i.e. salsa, juice, etc.).
 Freezing – Prepare a nutrition display that illustrates a freezing principle. There is NOT a food
exhibit option for this preservation method.
 Drying – Exhibit two (2) different dried foods packed in plastic food storage bags. Choose from
fruit, vegetable, fruit leather or meat jerky.
 Pickles and Relishes – Exhibit two pint jars of different recipes of pickles and/or relishes.
 Jams, Jellies, and Preserves – Exhibit half-pint jars of two different jams, jellies, and/or
preserves.
 Preservation Combination – Exhibit two different preserved food products, excluding Freezing,
in appropriate jars/packaging (drying). For example, exhibit 1 jar of tomatoes (Canning) and 1
half-pint of jelly (Jams, Jellies, and Preserves).
All preserved products should be prepared and processed according to the current USDA/Extension
information. USDA information on preserving food, including recipes, can be found at:
www.homefoodpreservation.com. Note that exhibits will not be judged on taste.
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All food exhibits must be labeled with: 1) The name of the food; 2) The date preserved; 3) Appropriate
method(s) of food preservation (For canned projects: boiling water bath or pressure canner; For drying
projects: Specify equipment used (food dehydrator, oven, etc.))
Examples:
 Strawberry jam, boiling water bath. July 13, 2014.
 Green beans, pressure canner. July 13, 2014.
 Beef jerky, food dehydrator and oven. July 13, 2014.
All food exhibits must be accompanied with: The recipe(s) – typed or written, with the source of the
recipe(s) listed. Only tested recipes should be used (those that have been tested to meet food safety
guidelines). Appropriate sources include: USDA, Extension (Illinois or other states), National Center for
Home Food Preservation, or commercial manufacturers of food preservation products (e.g., Ball, Presto,
Mrs. Wages, Sure-Jell, etc.). Projects using family recipes, those published in magazines or blogs, or other
sources will not be eligible to receive a blue ribbon. Note: A recipe from a blog, website, or magazine
may be used if the publication specifies that the original recipe comes from one of the approved sources.
Canning Equipment Requirements: All canned products must be canned in clear, standard jars in good
condition (no chips or cracks). Jars must be sealed using two-piece canning lids (flat lid and band). Must
use a new, unused flat lid. Bands must not be rusty or severely worn.
Food & Nutrition Clover Challenge:
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Foods Clover Challenge Project who have completed 4-H
Cooking 101, 201, 301 and 401. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H
project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The
agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
FORESTRY
Forests of Fun 1
Exhibit any product or display illustrating an activity from the book. The
exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects,
demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps,
performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method
best shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need
for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All
exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain
on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging
time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Forests of Fun 2
Exhibit any product or display illustrating an activity from the book. The exhibit may include, but isn’t
limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games,
apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
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learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided
for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Forests of Fun 3
Exhibit any product or display illustrating an activity from the book. The exhibit may include, but isn’t
limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games,
apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided
for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Clover Challenge: Forestry
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Forestry Clover Challenge Project who have completed Forestry
1, 2, and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books cover and
should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to,
original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps,
performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided
for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
GEOLOGY
Size and number of exhibit cases should relate appropriately to the number of specimens being displayed for a
specified class. Specimens are not limited to Illinois locations. All levels of Geology use the same manual, What
on Earth – Geology Study Guide.
Pebble Pups I
Display 8 to 19 rocks and mineral specimens with three minerals in the
collections. Collection may include duplications that show variations.
Label collection and note where found.
Pebble Pups II
Display at least 20, but no more than 29, rocks and mineral specimens with seven minerals in the
collections. Collection may include duplications that show variations. Label collection and note where
found.
Rock Hounds I
Display at least 30, but no more than 40, rocks and mineral specimens with ten minerals in the collection.
Rocks should include at least three igneous, two metamorphic, and three sedimentary groups. Label
collection and note where found.
Rock Hounds II
Display no more than 50 specimens that have been selected to illustrate a specific theme of the
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exhibitor’s choosing. Be creative. Sample categories could include (but are not limited to): industrial
minerals and their uses; a specific rock group and the variety that occurs in that group, including some
minerals that occur in that environment; select fossils traced through the geologic ages; minerals and
their crystal habits; rocks and minerals used in the lapidary arts.
Geogogy Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Geology.
Demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained through the Geology project. Exhibit may be the
result of knowledge gained from project manuals; independent study about Illinois rock(s) and
mineral(s), interaction with geology professionals; and/or individual exploration in the area of geology.
The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital
presentations, programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose
whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit
options for this project. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will
not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Geology Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Geology Clover Challenge Project who have completed all previous
Geology levels. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books cover
and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited
to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps,
performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided
for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
GEOSPATIAL
NOT State Fair Eligible
Exploring Spaces, Going Places: Level I
Exhibit one of the two options listed below:
 Using the ‘Take Me on a Tour ‘ activity, create a display and map showing four to six tour sites,
geo-tools used to create the map, positional data for the sites, and information about the
selected sites. OR
 Using information from the “What Are Geographical Tools?” activity, prepare an exhibit showing
and describing ten mapping tools. Explain how the mapping tools are used and why maps are
important.
Exploring Spaces, Going Places: Level 2
Using the table from the “Take Me on a Tour” activity, create a map showing recreational, historical or
public service sites in your community. Determine if there is a need for additional community resources.
Make written suggestions for what resources should be added and where they should be located on your
map.
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Exploring Spaces, Going Places: Level 3
Create a computer-generated map with layered data that provides information on a community need.
Explain how the need was identified; how you gathered information; and your recommendations on how
to solve the need. Use the template from “Take Me on a Tour” activity to gather data for the map.
HEALTH
Health I
Exhibit a family First Aid Kit and cards or a preparedness kit prepared by the exhibitor. Be
prepared to respond to questions regarding one of the “More Challenge Activities” from
the book.
Health II
Exhibit a “smarts” project as explained in the project manual. Project should be designed and prepared
by the exhibitor. Be prepared to respond to questions regarding one of the “Show Your Smarts Activities”
from the book.
Keeping Fit & Healthy III
Exhibit a Fitness File OR make a display of credible information about supplements and performance
enhancers. Be prepared to respond to questions regarding one of the “More Challenge Activities” from
the book.
Health Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Health 1, 2 or 3. Demonstrate the
skills and knowledge you have gained through the Health project. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to,
original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or
posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. Your exhibit should not
fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet
service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Health Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Health Clover Challenge Project who have completed Health 1, 2 and 3.
Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books cover and should represent an
accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects,
demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have
made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for
your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as
a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment
will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement can be
found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
HORTICULTURE (VEGETABLE GARDENING)
All vegetables exhibited must have been grown by the exhibitor as part of their current gardening 4-H project.
Exhibitors should be knowledgeable about various aspects of the vegetables, including but not limited to
different varieties, soil testing, fertilizers used, etc. Vegetable exhibits should be prepared according to the
Illinois Vegetable Garden Guide website: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/vegguide/. Waxes and oils may not be
used on vegetables or fruits. Any plant infested with insects will be removed from the exhibit area and will not
be eligible for a Superior exhibit.
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Vegetable Market Basket
Open to youth in Vegetable Gardening A, B, C, or D
1. This class is allowed a 2’6” x 2’6” space for
display.
2. Basket must include 6 and not more than 12
different vegetables. There may not be more than
2 different varieties of any vegetable. For
example, red and white potatoes would be
classified as two different varieties. Acorn squash
and zucchini would be classified as two different
vegetables.
3. The number and type of vegetables used must
conform to the Vegetable Plate/Basket List.
4. Basket must be labeled with the name and
variety of all vegetables used.
Vegetable Plate
Open to youth in Vegetable Gardening A, B, C, or D
1. Exhibit must include 2 single vegetable plates. (Exhibitor will furnish the disposable plates.)
2. Number of vegetables on plate must conform to plate list below.
3. Only one variety on a plate.
4. An exhibitor cannot show two plates of the same type vegetable. (i.e.: Cannot exhibit red and white
potatoes or zucchini and straightneck squash.)
VEGETABLE PLATE/BASKET LIST
When selecting vegetables for exhibition, keep in mind that the judge will evaluate them on the basis of
cleanliness, uniformity, condition, quality, and trueness to variety. (Lists are provided by UI Extension
Horticulturists; Items are listed according to the correct definition of vegetables)
Asparagus (5 spears)
Parsnips (5)
Beans, Lima (12 pods)
Peas, (12 pods)
Beets (5)
Peppers, large fruited (bell/banana) (5)
Broccoli (1 head)
Peppers, small fruited (chili/cherry) (12)
Brussels Sprouts (12 sprouts)
Popcorn (5)
Cabbage (1 head)
Potatoes (any variety) (5)
Cauliflower (1 head)
Pumpkin (1)
Carrots (5)
Rhubarb, trimmed stalks (3)
Cucumber, pickling or slicing (5)
Rutabaga (5)
Eggplant (1)
Salsify (5)
Garlic (5)
Squash, summer (any variety) (3)
Kohlrabi (5)
Sweet Corn, in husks (5)
Lettuce (1 head or plant)
Tomatoes, slicing (5)
Muskmelon incl. cantaloupe (1)
Tomatoes, small fruited (12)
Okra (12)
Turnip (5)
Onions, large, dry (5)
Watermelon (1)
Onions, green or set (12)
Beans, Snap, Green Pod or Golden Wax (12 pods)
Greens (collard, endive, escarole, kale, mustard, spinach, Swiss chard) (1 plant)
Horseradish Root (1 marketable root specimen harvested this year)
Squash, winter (Acorn, butternut, buttercup, spaghetti, Hubbard, Turks’s Turban) (1)
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Vegetable Gardening Display
Open to youth in Vegetable Gardening A, B, C, or D
Present an exhibit of the member’s choice that focuses on some aspect of vegetable gardening which
does not fit in the categories above. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects,
demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which
you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any
equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits
must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on
display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time
and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Vegetable Gardening Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Vegetable Gardening Clover Challenge Project who have
completed Vegetable Gardening, A, B, C and D.)
Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books cover and should
represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original
works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps, performances,
or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. You must
furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All
exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain
on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging
time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The completed Illinois 4-H Clover
Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement can be found at:
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
INTERCULTURAL
Passport to the World, Individual
Prepare a display illustrating what you have learned about a country’s
or U.S. region’s geography, economy, agriculture, people, language,
housing, culture, music, crafts, clothing, holidays or other aspect.
Exhibit should be educational in nature and should not promote one’s
beliefs over another person’s beliefs. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital
presentations, programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose
whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your
exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual,
such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition.
Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display
during the entire exhibit period. Include the project manual with completed sections that pertain to the
exhibit information.
Passport to the World Clover Challenge (individuals only)
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Intercultural Clover Challenge Project who have completed
previous Intercultural projects. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H
project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
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shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The
agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
Passport to the World, Club, Includes Passport to the World and Latino Cultural Arts projects
Prepare a display illustrating what you have learned about a country’s or U.S. region’s geography,
economy, agriculture, people, language, housing, culture, music, crafts, clothing, holidays or other
aspect. Exhibit should be educational in nature and should not promote one’s beliefs over another
person’s beliefs. The display should include the steps that the club has completed on the project selected
for the year. Include a written outline or report of accomplishments and future goals. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
The display must be manned by 3 or more club exhibitors of 4-H age (8 and older) at the time of the
judge’s critique. These members must not be exhibiting in another individual exhibit class and at least
one of the members must meet the 10-year-old and above age requirement. Club members should make
a 5- to 10-minute presentation to the judge. All club members present for the judge's critique should be
able to discuss the project and answer questions. Only club members present for judging (and meet the
age requirement) who participate in the actual critique and presentation are eligible for ribbons and
premiums. CLUBS SELECTED TO EXHIBIT AT THE STATE FAIR SHOULD READ ADDITIONAL RULES RELATED
TO EXHIBITION AT STATE.
INTERGENERATIONAL
Intergenerational, Walk In My Shoes
Present a display relating to an activity completed in the
project. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to,
original works, objects, demonstrations, digital
presentations, programs, websites, games, apps,
performances, or posters which you have made. Choose
whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. You
must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit.
Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All
exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain
on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging
time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Intergenerational Clover Challenge: Walk in My Shoes (individuals only)
(Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Intergenerational Clover Challenge Project who have
completed previous Intergenerational projects.) Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond”
what the 4-H project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The
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exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations,
programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever
method best shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit.
Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a
printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic
equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the
entire exhibit period. The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the
exhibit. The agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
INTERIOR DESIGN
Special rules apply to Interior Design projects to be exhibited at the state fair.
Design Decisions, Beginning
Exhibit one of the following:
 Wall treatment – Poster showing the application of a decorative treatment for a wall (stenciling,
rag rolling, etc.) used by exhibitor. Treatment should cover approximately ½ of the board.
Remaining area of the board should include before/after photos, a picture story of the
application, cost comparison, etc.;
OR
 A three-dimensional surface accessory that will set on a table, dresser, or floor. Item must be
made by the exhibitor. Include before and after photos of the space where the item is used in the
room;
OR
 An item that has been recycled (significantly altered) by the member. Include before and after
photos of the recycled item and where it is used in the room;
OR
 Wall hanging (2 or 3-dimensional), made by exhibitor. Include before and after photos of the
space where the item is used in the room.
Design Decisions, Intermediate
Exhibit one of the following:
 Comparison shopping study of at least two items showing wants and needs, costs, use in overall
design plan, quality comparison, etc. and final selection made. May be displayed via poster or
notebook;
OR
 Bedcover – May include a quilt, comforter, bedspread, dust ruffle, pillow sham, canopy, etc.
made by exhibitor. Include before and after photos of the space where the item is used in the
room;
OR
 Window Treatment – May include curtains, draperies, shades, shutters, etc. made by exhibitor.
Include before and after photos of the space where the item is used in the room.
Design Decisions, Advanced
Exhibit one of the following:
 Select a problem such as storage, unusual or odd-sized window, need for better lighting, privacy,
or an invention or idea that solves an energy or water problem. Show the steps used to solve
the problem and the final product. Use pictures, samples, drawings, etc. to tell the story. Display
in a notebook or on poster board. If an item was made by the exhibitor to solve the problem,
include that item in the display. Include before and after photos in the display. Displays
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illustrating a general “redecorating” of a room are NOT appropriate for this exhibit;
OR
 Exhibit one item of refinished furniture. Include before and after photos of the item. Photo
should be mounted. Include a description of the steps taken to refinish the item.
Interior Design Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Interior Design. Demonstrate the
skills and knowledge you have gained through the Interior Design project. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You must
furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All
exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain
on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging
time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Interior Design Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Interior Design Clover Challenge Project who have completed
all levels of Interior Design. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
LEADERSHIP
Leadership I
Create a binder portfolio with a minimum
of four (4) completed activities each year,
from the areas noted below. Build upon
your previous year’s work. Photocopies or
original pages of the completed activities
from the book should be included in the
portfolio. Use of page protectors is
recommended.
First Year – One activity from each
of the following: Understanding
Self; Communication; and Getting
Along with Others, plus one of
exhibitor’s choice from the
manual.
Second Year – One activity from each of the following: Getting Along with Others; Learning to
Learn; and Making Decisions, plus one of exhibitor’s choice from the manual.
Third Year – One activity from each of the following: Making Decisions; Managing; and Working
with Groups, plus one of exhibitor’s choice from the manual.
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Leadership II
Building upon your previous work, continue adding to your binder portfolio with a minimum of four (4)
completed activities each year, from the areas noted below. Photocopies or original pages of the
completed activities from the book should be included in the portfolio. Use of page protectors is
recommended.
First Year – One activity from each of the following: Understanding Self; Communication; and
Getting Along with Others, plus one of exhibitor’s choice from the manual.
Second Year – One activity from each of the following: Getting Along with Others; Learning to
Learn; and Making Decisions, plus one of exhibitor’s choice from the manual.
Third Year – One activity from each of the following: Making Decisions; Managing; and Working
with Groups, plus one of exhibitor’s choice from the manual.
Leadership III
Building upon your previous work, continue adding to your binder portfolio with a minimum of four (4)
completed activities each year, from the areas noted below. Photocopies or original pages of the
completed activities from the book should be included in the portfolio. Use of page protectors is
recommended.
First Year – One activity from each of the following: Understanding Self; Communication; and
Getting Along with Others, plus one of exhibitor’s choice from the manual.
Second Year – One activity from each of the following: Getting Along with Others; Learning to
Learn; and Making Decisions, plus one of exhibitor’s choice from the manual.
Third Year – One activity from each of the following: Making Decisions; Managing; and Working
with Groups, plus one of exhibitor’s choice from the manual.
Leadership Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Leadership.
Demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained through the Leadership project. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You
must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the
exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which
will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal
judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Leadership Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Leadership Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Leadership Units 1,2, and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
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NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT
Electricity and water are NOT available for these displays. NO live animals or reptiles are permitted in these
exhibits.
Natural Resources I
Exhibit any item developed from the project book, Step Into Nature.
Natural Resources II
Exhibit any item developed from the project book, Explore the Natural World.
Natural Resources III
Exhibit any item developed from the project book, Blaze the Trail.
Natural Resources Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Natural Resources Clover Challenge Project who have
completed Natural Resources 1,2, & 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the
4-H project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The
agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
Wildlife A (NOT State Fair Eligible)
Exhibit any activity developed from the project book. Be able to
explain the importance of and concept behind the project exhibit.
Wildlife B
Exhibit any activity developed from the project manual. (Ex.
Create a display of the life history of an animal.) Within the
exhibit, explain the importance of and concept behind the exhibit.
Exploring Your Environment 1: Ecosystem Services (NOT State Fair Eligible)
Prepare a display or poster that illustrates an activity from the project manual. The display should
demonstrate an understanding of natural and/or manmade environments, how humans affect the
environment, or how the environment affects our lives. Include your project manual that documents
activity recordkeeping, your answers to activity questions, and details the exhibitor’s thoughts and ideas.
Exploring Your Environment 2: Earth’s Capacity (NOT State Fair Eligible)
Prepare a display or poster that illustrates an activity from the project manual. The display should
demonstrate an understanding of one of the following: stewardship of natural resources, investigating
greenhouse effects on living organisms, methods of reducing or managing waste in your home or
community, or calculating your ecological footprint. Include your project manual that documents activity
recordkeeping, your answers to activity questions, and details the exhibitor’s thoughts and ideas.
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Outdoor Adventures I
Exhibit a display illustrating an activity completed from the project manual.
Outdoor Adventures II
Exhibit a display illustrating an activity completed from the project manual.
Outdoor Adventures III
Exhibit a display illustrating an activity completed from the project manual.
Sportsfishing I
Exhibit a product or display made to complete an activity in the
Take the Bait project manual. This could include, but is not
limited to, displays on: different types of fishing tackle,
identifying different baits and their uses (no actual bait, please)
or identifying the anatomy of a fish. For safety reasons, lures
must be placed in a plastic case.
Sportsfishing II
Exhibit a product or display made to complete an activity in the Reel in the Fun project manual. This could
include, but is not limited to, displays on: different types of knots or rigs and their use; a collection of
fishing lures, labeled with their use; or information on preparing and cooking fish (not recipes). For safety
reasons, lures must be placed in a plastic case.
Sportsfishing III
Exhibit a product or display made to complete an activity in the Cast into the Future project manual. This
could include, but is not limited to, displays on: making artificial flies and lures; researching effects of
water temperature; sportsfishing careers; or identifying insects that fish eat. For safety reasons, lures
must be placed in a plastic case.
Natural Resources/Sportsfishing/Wildlife Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in any Natural Resource,
Sportsfishing or Wildlife B Project. Demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained through the
project you have studied. This could be related to, but not limited to habitat construction, maintenance,
water quality, fish biology, or involvement with citizen science efforts. The exhibit may include, but isn’t
limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games,
apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You must furnish any
equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits
must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on
display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time
and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
PHOTOGRAPHY
ALL photos in exhibits must have been taken by the exhibitor. Exhibitors in all
classes should be prepared to discuss what type of camera and settings were used
for the exhibit photographs with the judge. Photos may be taken with a camera, an
electronic tablet (i.e. iPad), or a cell phone. Photo/Model releases from individuals
pictured in the exhibitor’s photographs are required unless the photograph is of a
group in a public place where identification would not be an issue. The release can
be obtained at:
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/members/fairsandexhibits.cfm.
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Photography 1
Exhibit one of the two options listed below or the Photo Editing option:
 Exhibit five to seven photos that tell a story. The story must have a beginning, middle, and end.
Captions are optional. Exhibit will be judged on how well the pictures tell a story and use of
composition techniques. Photos should be mounted on a poster. No photo editing is allowed in
this class except cropping and red eye removal; OR
 Exhibit one framed 8”x10” or two framed 5”x7” photos which demonstrate your understanding
of a technique you learned from your Photography 1 project manual. No photo editing is allowed
in this class except cropping and red eye removal. Be prepared to show the page in the manual of
the technique you are demonstrating.
Photography 2
Exhibit one of the options listed below:

Exhibit one framed 8x10 close-up photograph using the skills learned on page 62-63 of the
project manual titled “Bits and Pieces.” No photo editing is allowed in this class except cropping
and red eye removal; OR

Exhibit one framed 8”x10” or two framed 5”x7” photos which demonstrate your understanding
of a technique you learned from your Photography 2 project manual. No photo editing is allowed
in this class except cropping and red eye removal. Be prepared to show the page in the manual of
the technique you are demonstrating.
Photography 3
Exhibit one of the options listed below:
 Exhibit one framed 8” x 10” still-life photo that demonstrates good composition, including color,
form, texture, lighting and depth of field. No photo editing is allowed in this class except cropping
and red eye removal; OR
 Exhibit one framed 8”x10” or two framed 5”x7” photos which demonstrate your understanding
of a technique you learned from your Photography 3 project manual. No photo editing is allowed
in this class except cropping and red eye removal. Be prepared to show the page in the manual of
the technique you are demonstrating.
Photo Editing
Open to members in Photography 1, Photography 2 or Photography 3
Exhibit one framed 8” x 10” photo that has been altered using digital photo-editing techniques (beyond
cropping and red-eye reduction). Include a print of the original photo(s), taped to the back of the photo
frame.
Photography Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Photography 1, 2, or 3.
Demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained through the Photography project. The exhibit
may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You
must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the
exhibit. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not remain on
display during the entire exhibit period. All exhibits must include one framed photo illustrative of the
work you are presenting.
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Photography Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Photography Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Photography 1, 2 and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
PLANTS & SOILS
Not State Fair Eligible
Plants & Soils 1: It’s More Than Just Dirt
Prepare a display or poster that illustrates an activity from the project manual. The display should
demonstrate an understanding of environmental and internal factors that affect plant growth. Include
your project journal that documents activity recordkeeping requirements, answers activity questions,
and details personal thoughts and ideas.
Plants & Soils 2: Stems and Stamens
Prepare a display or poster that illustrates an activity from the project manual. The display should
demonstrate an understanding of the composition of plants, the functions of individual plant parts, plant
life cycles, and the many ways plants reproduce. Include your project journal that documents activity
recordkeeping, answers activity questions, and details personal thoughts and ideas.
Plants & Soils 3: Sprouting Out and Growing Up
Prepare a display or poster that illustrates an activity from the project manual. The display should
demonstrate an understanding of environmental and internal factors that affect plant growth. Include
your project journal that documents activity recordkeeping requirements, answers activity questions,
and details personal thoughts and ideas.
Clover Challenge: Plants & Soils
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Plants & Soils clover challenge project area.
Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books cover. Exhibit a
display illustrating the Clover Challenge area that you explored. This could include anything NOT covered
in the project book, including but not limited to career exploration or an in-depth study of a specific topic
in that project’s subject matter. The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be
presented with the exhibit. The agreement can be found at:
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
ROBOTICS
NOTE: If applicable for their class and display, exhibitors must bring their own computers for demonstration
purposes; computers will not be provided. Internet access will not be available.
This sub-section is divided into the 3 Robotics projects. Please read the general descriptions for each project in
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addition to the specific class descriptions.
Robotics Platforms:
Exhibitors should bring a robot designed with a programmable robotics kit. A robot that is not programmed using
a computer or other device does not qualify for the Robotics Platforms class. The robot can be either built and
programmed using a commercial kit or it can be one put together using individual components. 4-H does not
promote any platform over another, but some of the more common robotics kits available to the general public
include: LEGO® Mindstorms, Tetrix®, Vex® and VexIQ®. Exhibitors are also required to bring a Robotics Notebook
in which they have recorded their engineering design experience. State fair exhibits for this class are individual
only.
Robotics Platform I (Modules 1-5)
Exhibitors will build and program a robot for basic movement that includes a simple arm capable of
picking up an item. They will bring their robot and Robotics Notebook to share what they learned about
the engineering design process.
Robotics Platform II (Modules 6-10)
Exhibitors will design, build and program a robot that uses sensors and programming to complete a task.
They will bring their robot and Robotics Notebook to share what they learned about the engineering
design process and programming with sensors.
Robotics Platform III (Module 11)
Exhibitors will design, build and program a robot that uses
sensors and programming to complete one of the provided
challenges. They will bring their robot and Robotics Notebook to
share changes they made to the robot and/or program along
the way, and to describe their experience with completing the
challenge.
Junkdrawer Robotics:
All exhibits should be original designs made with everyday objects and
materials. Exhibits with purchased kits will not be accepted. Exhibitors
are also required to bring their Junk Drawer Robotics Youth Robotics
Notebook with the sections completed for the project they are exhibiting, including the sections leading up to the
activity they are exhibiting. For example, if a youth is bringing Activity E from Junk Drawer Level 1, they should
have robotics notebook sections A-E completed.
Junkdrawer Robotics I, Give Robots a Hand
Exhibit any item from the “To Make” activity from the Junk Drawer Robotics Level 1 Book. Be sure all
robotics notebook sections within the module being exhibited are filled in.
Junkdrawer Robotics 2, Robots on the Move
Exhibit any item from the “To Make” activity from the Junk Drawer Robotics Level 2 Book. Be sure all
robotics notebook sections within the module being exhibited are filled in.
Junkdrawer Robotics 3, Mechatronics
Exhibit any item from the “To Make” activity from the Junk Drawer Robotics Level 3 Book. Be sure all
robotics notebook sections within the module being exhibited are filled in.
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Virtual Robotics (NOT State Fair Eligible)
Activities are conducted in an online environment. Every module has Virtual Robotics Notebook pages with
prompts and questions to guide youth. Pages should be printed and kept in a binder. Additional blank or lined
paper may also be used to record thoughts and sketches of design ideas. Exhibitors will be judged on the detail
and content of explanations in their Robotics Notebook. No computers or other equipment are required.
Level 1
Exhibit your robotics notebook to demonstrate what you learned about the engineering design process
by completing at least one of the design challenges in Modules 1-4. Explain how you redesigned your
robot to better complete the challenge and what you learned from that process. Include answers to the
question prompts from at least one module.
Level 2
Bring a robotics notebook to demonstrate what you learned about robotics design and programming by
completing at least one of the challenges in Modules 5-8. Provide details on the pseudo-code or program
you wrote and explain changes you made to help your robot complete the challenge. Include answers to
the question prompts from at least one module.
Level 3
Bring a robotics notebook to demonstrate what you learned about either robotics communication
(Modules 9-10) or the engineering design process and programming (Modules 11-12). Explain your
experience with trying to complete the assigned challenge and include answers to the question prompts
from at least one module.
Robotics Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Robotics Platform or
Junk Drawer Robotics. Exhibit an original robot that can complete a task using sensors. If a robot kit is
used, then some parts of the robot must be built using other components such as wood, plastic or metal.
The robot can include any types of motors, pneumatics or sensors. The robot can also use a
microcontroller such as an Arduino.
Robotics Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Robotics Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Robotics 1, 2 and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books
cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but isn’t
limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games,
apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided
for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
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SHOOTING SPORTS
NOT State Fair Eligible
4-H members enrolled in 4-H Shooting Sports may choose to exhibit a display in addition to or instead of
participating in a Shooting Sports Event. Members must be a member of an approved 4-H Shooting Sports Club to
exhibit. No live ammunition, actual firearms or parts of a firearm that could be reassembled should be included.
Any manufactured part of a sporting arm may not be displayed. Human Silhouette targets will not be displayed.
All exhibits should be posters suitable for display to the general public. Exhibits deemed to be inappropriate will
not be displayed. Suggested scoresheets for exhibits can be downloaded:
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/shootingsports/members/index.cfm .
Shooting Sports: Archery
Exhibit a poster depicting safe firearm/archery handling, range safety, the parts of the (bow, rifle and/or
shotgun), tracking the target, target sighting, or another topic you have learned through the 4-H Shooting
Sports program.
Shooting Sports: Rifle
Exhibit a poster depicting safe firearm/archery handling, range safety, the parts of the (bow, rifle and/or
shotgun), tracking the target, target sighting, or another topic you have learned through the 4-H Shooting
Sports program.
Shooting Sports: Shotgun
Exhibit a poster depicting safe firearm/archery handling, range safety, the parts of the (bow, rifle and/or
shotgun), tracking the target, target sighting, or another topic you have learned through the 4-H Shooting
Sports program.
SMALL ENGINES
Small Engine displays must be no larger than 4’ x 4’ display board. Exhibits must be portable. All exhibits
should involve engines smaller than 20 horsepower. No complete engines, lawn tractors, tillers, chainsaws,
etc. are permitted for display.
Small Engines Display
Open to youth in Small Engines 1, Small Engines 2, and Small Engines 3
Exhibit a display, selecting one of the following options:
 A display identifying different engine or lawn and garden equipment
parts or a display showing the function of the various engine or lawn
and garden equipment parts;
OR
 A display identifying and explaining the function(s) of different
specialty tools needed for small engine work;
OR
 A display illustrating and providing the results of any one of the experiments that are included in
the project books. No electrical power is available for displays/exhibits.
Small Engines Maintenance
Open to youth in Small Engines 1, Small Engines 2, and Small Engines 3
Exhibit a display that illustrates either:
 Routine maintenance procedures;
OR
 Diagnosing and troubleshooting specific problems with an engine.
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Small Engines Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Small Engines Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Small Engines 1, 2 and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
SMALL PETS (NOT State Fair Eligible)
Small Pets I: Pet Pals, Small Pets II: Scurrying Ahead, Small Pets III: Scaling the Heights
Bring small pets (except tropical fish) for grooming and health check in addition to requirements listed below.
Pets brought to the 4-H Show must be on a leash or properly caged. All exhibitors should be at the health check
area, under the grandstand when their club exhibits during conference judging. Pets should be taken home by
1:00 PM. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal(s) have the option to prepare a display
and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
CAGED BIRDS - Bring caged bird and exhibit a photo story describing your pet bird and one page written
report to discuss feeding, health care, grooming, etc.
CAVY (HAMSTERS, GERBILS, MICE, GUINEA PIGS) - Bring cavy and exhibit a photo story describing your pet
and a one page report to discuss its feeding, grooming, and health needs.
TROPICAL FISH - Exhibit educational poster (14" x 22") or educational display or photo story describing your
fish and a one page report to discuss its feeding and health needs.
OTHER SMALL PETS/RABBITS - Bring small pet and exhibit a photo story describing your pet and a one page
report on your activities with this project. NOTE: The 4-H member CANNOT enter both the pet class and
breeding rabbit class - you must choose between these two classes. See rabbit section for information on
the breeding rabbit class.
THEATRE ARTS
Multiple items included in an exhibit must all be labeled with the member’s name and county.
Theatre Arts 1
Exhibit one of the following items:
 Portfolio of acting activities completed during the current year (A video of performances is not
considered a portfolio and will not be accepted for exhibit. Use of page protectors is
recommended. Exhibit will NOT be labeled “Do Not Touch.”); OR
 Display illustrating a drawing/photograph of a clown character created by the exhibitor; OR
 Display illustrating a picture story developed by the exhibitor.
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.
Theatre Arts 2
Exhibit one of the following items:
 Portfolio of activities with puppets completed during the current year (Use of page protectors is
recommended. Exhibit will NOT be labeled “Do Not Touch.”); OR
 Display on the history of puppets or puppetry in different cultures OR Display a puppet created
by the exhibitor; OR
 Display a story wheel and play adapted or written for puppets.
Theatre Arts 3
Exhibit one of the following items:
 Portfolio of activities for set design; make-up; or
sound, props, or costuming completed during the
current year (Use of page protectors is
recommended. Exhibit will NOT be labeled “Do Not
Touch.”); OR
 Display that includes sound, props and costume
charts appropriate for a selected scene from a story
or play (limited to no more than 8 items); OR
 Display a scenic design model to depict a scene from a script; OR
 Display illustrating a character with make-up drawn or colored in. Include a photograph of a
person wearing the make-up and information on the character’s personality or part in the play.
Theatre Arts Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Theatre Arts.
Demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained through Theatre Arts project. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You
must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the
exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which
will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal
judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Theatre Arts Clover Challenge (individual member only)
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Theatre Arts Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Theatre Arts 1, 2 and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
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TRACTOR
Tractor A
Exhibit a display or poster that illustrates one of the following topics:
tractor safety; care and maintenance; the tractor as a valuable farm
machine; or an activity listed in the project manual.
Tractor B
Exhibit a display or poster that illustrates one of the following topics:
cause and prevention of rollovers, diagram how an air cleaner works, diagram & identify an engine
cooling system, regulations for battery & oil disposal, or another activity listed in the 4-H project manual.
Tractor C
Exhibit a display or poster that illustrates one of the following topics: wagon and bin hazards, diagram
and identify open and closed hydraulic systems, mower types and safety features, conveyor types and
safety features, or another activity listed in the 4-H project manual.
Tractor D
Exhibit a display or poster that illustrates one of the following topics: method of winterizing a tractor,
chemical uses and required safety equipment, parts and process of internal combustion engine,
procedure for cleaning and flushing tractor radiator, or another activity.
Tractor Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Tractor A, B, C or D.
Demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained through the Tractor project. This could be related
to, but not limited to, advancements in technology, enhancements to crop production, or a topic of
interest to the member related to tractors or farm machinery. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited
to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps,
performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You must furnish any
equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits
must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on
display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time
and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Tractor Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Tractor Clover Challenge Project who have completed Tractors
A, B, C and D. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project books cover
and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited
to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites, games, apps,
performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve
learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided
for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
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VET SCIENCE
Veterinary Science 1
Prepare a display focusing on any activity related to the veterinary science project. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Live animals are not permitted as exhibits in this area. For safety reasons, exhibits cannot include glass,
syringes with needles or any other sharp objects.
Veterinary Science 2
Open to youth in Veterinary Science 1, Veterinary Science 2, and Veterinary Science 3.
Prepare a display focusing on any activity related to the veterinary science project. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Live animals are not permitted as exhibits in this area. For safety reasons, exhibits cannot include glass,
syringes with needles or any other sharp objects.
Veterinary Science 3
Prepare a display focusing on any activity related to the veterinary science project. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Live animals are not permitted as exhibits in this area. For safety reasons, exhibits cannot include glass,
syringes with needles or any other sharp objects.
Veterinary Science Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Veterinary Science Clover Challenge Project who have
completed Vet Science 1, 2 and 3. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H
project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service
will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a
digital presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be
used during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The
agreement can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
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VIDEO/FILMMAKING
Exhibitors have several options available for their exhibits in these classes. Select the best option for you.
1. Exhibitors may post their video on YouTube.com in advance of State Fair. Exhibitors may choose whether
to make the video “public, unlisted” (someone must have the link to view it), or “private” (only people
you choose may view it). This will help avoid technical difficulties when viewing during conference
judging. Exhibitors must bring their YouTube login information and/or video URL to share with the judge.
2. Exhibitors may bring their video on DVD or a media storage device (USB). Exhibitors should be aware that
sometimes systems may not be compatible with their home systems, so the video may be distorted or
not play.
3. Exhibitors may choose to bring their own laptop or electronic tablet to play the video. No internet access
will be available for personal laptop usage, so if the exhibitor chooses this method, the video should
already be on the laptop/tablet.
4. Video/Filmmaking exhibitors should include a printed copy of online materials which will remain on
display.
Requirements that apply to ALL video classes:
Video submissions should be no longer than five (5) minutes in length (unless noted differently in class
description.). Videos are to be original and a result of the member’s current year’s work. Criteria for judging shall
include: (1) Evidence of story line; (2) Use of camera angles; (3) Use of zooming techniques; and (4) Smoothness
of scene changes. Image and sound quality will be considered in relation to equipment available to and used by
exhibitor. All videos should comply with copyright regulations and display an image that is appropriate for 4-H
audiences. No time or date should be imprinted on the video footage. All videos should include an opening title
screen, as well as closing credits which include date of production, name of video exhibitor and research sources
if appropriate.
Commercial or Promotional Video
Prepare a short video (30 seconds to 1 minute in length) that promotes an event, advertises a specific
project/product, or is a public service announcement. The video should demonstrate skills in making and
editing video.
Animated Video
Video in this class should represent creative animation of original artwork created by the exhibitor and
may include stop motion techniques. Media might include images created with graphics software or
hand-drawn images.
Documentary
Video in this class should represent a research-based investigation into a topic of choice. Video credits
should list research sources and may include paper or electronically published materials, as well as,
and/or interviews with experts or constituents related to the topic of investigation.
Short Story or Short Narrative
Prepare a short video that tells a story. The video should demonstrate skills in making and editing video.
Video/Filmmaking Innovation Class
Open to youth who were at least 13 years of age on 9/1/14 and are enrolled in Video/Filmmaking.
Demonstrate the skills and knowledge you have gained through the Video project. The exhibit may
include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best
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shows what you’ve learned. Your exhibit should not fit in the other exhibit options for this project. You
must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the
exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which
will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal
judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period.
Video/Filmmaking Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Video/Filmmaking Clover Challenge Project who have
completed all previous levels of Video/Filmmaking. Exhibits in this category should go “above and
beyond” what the 4-H project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project
study. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital
presentations, programs, websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made.
Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need
for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include
something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which will remain on display during
the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal judging time and will not
remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge
Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement can be found at:
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
VISUAL ARTS
Articles exhibited are to be made by the exhibitor who is a participant in the Visual Art Project. Articles must
have been made during the current 4-H year (September 1, 2014 - August 10, 2015).
Exhibitors are encouraged to date the project when it is made. Exhibitors must be able to carry or cart their
exhibits across the fairgrounds from the parking lots. All visual arts exhibits are evaluated using a visual arts
rubric which takes into account correct use of design elements; craftsmanship; and creativity.
Articles exhibited must be an original design created by the exhibitor. Copyrighted or trademarked designs are
not acceptable, this includes team or school logos. Kits and preformed molds are not considered original and
are not acceptable in any Visual Arts Class. Combining parts of different patterns (pictures, photographs,
images from the internet or a magazine) with the member's own ideas can result in an original design, but
simply changing the color, pattern and/or size of a pattern does NOT make the design original. (Exception:
Heritage Arts items may follow a pattern.) IF a photo, sketch, or other idea source was used, submit it with your
entry, firmly attached to your exhibit. Be prepared to explain how and where you got the idea for this project.
All items must be properly prepared for exhibit. Items which are intended to be hung must be prepared for
hanging. The hanging device must be sturdy enough to support the weight of the object. Framed items not
intended to be hung should be noted as such on the exhibit tag and a photo of the artwork being displayed
should be included.
Cake Decorating Beginning
Exhibit a decorated cake or four cupcakes, using a minimum of four different techniques. Exhibit may use
cake, cupcakes or cake form.
Cake Decorating Intermediate
Exhibit a decorated cake using a minimum of five Level 2 techniques. Exhibit may use cake or cake form.
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Cake Decorating Advanced
Exhibit a decorated, stacked and/or tiered cake, using a minimum of four Level 3 techniques. Exhibit may
use cake or cake form.
Cake Decorating Master
Write a one-page written description of your project, including your goals, plans, accomplishments, and
evaluation of results. Include up to four pictures of your accomplishments AND exhibit an original design
decorated cake using more than five techniques. Exhibit may use cake or cake form.
Chalk/Carbon/Pigment
Any original art work done with pencils, chalk, pens, ink, paint, charcoal, dyes, etc. on canvas, paper, or
glass. This would include all painting, sketching, drawing, cartooning, printing, etc. Note: Please enter
painting on wood, metal, or textiles in Heritage Arts. Painted and/or glazed pre-formed ceramics and
painted porcelain dolls are not eligible for State Fair exhibit. Drawings and paintings should be matted or
framed under glass. (Exceptions: Oil and acrylic paintings do not require glass and are not required to be
matted.) Water color, chalk, pen & ink, computer-generated art, etc. do require some protective
covering. Gallery frames are acceptable. Canvas paintings that continue “over the edges” are acceptable
without frames; however the piece must still be prepared for hanging. Matted pieces without frames are
acceptable, however the piece must be prepared for hanging OR it must include a photo of the artwork
being displayed in a non-hanging manner. There is no specific requirement for the type of mat used. Page
34 of the Illinois 4-H Arts Visual Arts Member’s Manual gives basic directions for a mat, but purchased,
pre-cut mats are acceptable.
Clay
Any original item made of clay; may be fired or unfired, hand formed or thrown on a wheel. Selfhardening clays are fine. Fire/oven-cured and cornstarch clay could be accepted. Items can include, but
are not limited to, clay statues, bowls, jewelry, etc. Pre-formed ceramics are not eligible for State Fair
exhibit.
Computer-Generated Art
Any original art created in any software package. Exhibit may not include scanned work, clip art,
downloaded images from the internet, any imported image, or photographs. All pixels must be original.
Photo mosaics are NOT allowed. Color or black & white exhibits are acceptable. Exhibitors in this class
(like all other classes in this sub-section) must be enrolled in Visual Arts; Computer project enrollment is
not required. NOTE: Wood and metal exhibits created through the use of laser cutting
programs/devices should be entered in this class. The entry should have some protective covering, such
as a glass frame, and prepared for hanging.
Fiber
Any original item made of fiber. Examples are quilts, fabric collage, soft sculpture, stitchery, weaving,
embroidery, cross-stitch, wearable art, and duct tape artistry. All baskets and decorated textiles (such as
painted shirts or stenciled clothing) should be entered in Heritage Arts. Original cross-stitched, knitted,
crocheted or quilted items belong in this Fiber class. Non-original cross-stitched, knitted, crocheted or
quilted items should be entered in Heritage Arts. Machine knitted items are not appropriate for this
class.
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Glass/Plastic
Any original item made of glass or plastic. Possible items to exhibit include stained glass, etched glass
(original design), mosaics made of glass, glass beading, plastic jewelry (friendly plastic). Interlocking
building block creations (i.e. LEGOS) are not suitable for State Fair entry. Stepping stones or wall
hangings that include cement decorated with glass or plastic items are not suitable for this class.
Heritage Arts
Exhibit an item of traditional art learned from another person or from a pattern (NO KITS) may be
entered in this class. Cross-stitched, knitted and crocheted items by pattern must be entered in this
class. (Machine knitted items are NOT acceptable for this class.) Other possibilities include: needlepoint,
counted cross-stitch, crewel, embroidery, cut work, hardanger (embroidery openwork), macramé,
baskets, candles, pysanki (decorated eggs), leather, quilts from a traditional pattern, traditional
handmade dolls with handmade costumes, decorative painting on wood, metal, fiber, or candles. ALL
baskets should be entered in Heritage Arts.
Metal
Any original item made of metal such as sculpture, tin punch, engraved metal, and jewelry. Items
intended for industrial use (as tools and/or shop items) are not considered part of this Visual Arts
project and are not eligible for entry. Metal items that have been partially or totally created through
the use of laser cutting programs/devices should be entered in Class Computer-Generated Art.
Nature
Any original item made of natural material such as wreaths, cornhusk dolls, etc. Items should be made of
natural materials (which may be purchased) but securing elements such as glue and wire may be used in
the inner construction as long as they do not detract from the overall "natural" appearance. Articles such
as dried pressed flowers may be displayed under glass since it is necessary for protection/preservation of
the natural materials. Candles are not suitable as entries. All baskets should be entered in Class
Heritage Arts.
Paper
Any original item made of paper. Examples could include origami; greeting cards; paper-cut designs,
paper mache, hand-made paper, paper collage, paper models of architecture, quilling, etc. Paper twist
articles, made from directions in craft books and stores ARE NOT original and are not appropriate for this
class. Scrapbooks should be exhibited in Visual Arts Scrapbooking.
Scrapbooking, Beginning
Exhibit one album or notebook, either 8 ½” x 11” or 12”x12”, with a front and back cover. The
album/notebook must have a minimum of 4 pages (front and back, 8 sides), exhibited in page protectors.
“Embellishments” are defined as the decorations or special details and features that add to a page and
make it more visually appealing. Embellishments may include, but are not limited to, ribbon, clips, special
lettering, etc. Beginners must use a minimum of four embellishments and tell a story with pictures.
Scrapbooking, Intermediate
Exhibit one album or notebook, either 8 ½” x 11” or 12”x12”, with a front and back cover. The
album/notebook must have a minimum of 4 pages (front and back, 8 sides), exhibited in page protectors.
“Embellishments” are defined as the decorations or special details and features that add to a page and
make it more visually appealing. Embellishments may include, but are not limited to, ribbon, clips, special
lettering, etc. Intermediate level exhibitors must use a minimum of eight embellishments and tell a story
with pictures and journaling.
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Scrapbooking, Advanced
Exhibit one album or notebook, either 8 ½” x 11” or 12”x12”, with a front and back cover. The
album/notebook must have a minimum of 4 pages (front and back, 8 sides), exhibited in page protectors.
“Embellishments” are defined as the decorations or special details and features that add to a page and
make it more visually appealing. Embellishments may include, but are not limited to, ribbon, clips, special
lettering, etc. Advanced level exhibitors must use a minimum of 12 embellishments and tell a compelling
story with pictures, journaling, and other media.
Three Dimensional Design/Mixed Media
Art pieces in this class must be comprised of at least three different media. No one medium can make up
more than 40% of a piece. The piece should be free-standing (not meant to be hung) that is observable
on at least three different sides. Originality and design are important concepts. Craft and preformed or
assembled projects are not acceptable.
Wood
Any original item made of wood (wood carving, sculpture, collage, wood burning, etc.). Utilitarian wood
items made from patterns or kits (e.g. outdoor or indoor furniture, shelves) should be entered in
woodworking, not in visual arts. Popsicle stick crafts are not acceptable for State Fair entry. Wood items
that have been partially or totally created through the use of laser cutting programs/devices should be
entered in Computer-Generated Art.
Visual Arts Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Visuals Arts Clover Challenge Project who have completed all
previous levels of Visual Arts. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
WELDING
The size of exhibits larger than 3’ x 3’ should be noted by staff for state fair purposes.
Welding
This exhibit class is open to members who are in the 7th grade and higher. Exhibit one Arc weldment/item
demonstrating the skill level of the exhibitor. Members new to the project should consider selecting a
weldment from the suggested Weldment List found on page 43 of Arcs and Sparks (4-H 573 – Shielded
Metal Arc Welding). This class is for industrial welding only. (Members that wish to use welding to
create objects with an artistic appeal should consider enrolling in the 4-H Visual Arts project and consider
entering those types of exhibits in the Visual Arts – Metal class.) Exhibits must be portable and cannot
be exhibited on a trailer.
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Clover Challenge: Welding
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Welding Clover Challenge
Project who have completed previous Welding projects.
Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H
project books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of
project study. The exhibit may include, but isn’t limited to, original
works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs,
websites, games, apps, performances, or posters which you have
made. Choose whatever method best shows what you’ve learned. You
must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not be provided for the
exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital presentation, which
will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used during your personal
judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The completed Illinois 4-H
Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement can be found at:
http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
WOODWORKING
The size of exhibits larger than 3’ x 3’ should be noted on the 4-HDMS electronic entry form.
Woodworking 1
Any item made of wood constructed or refinished by the member, appropriate for their age, skills and
ability in this project. Pre-cut kits assembled by the member are not acceptable. Exhibits must be
portable and cannot be exhibited on a trailer. Exhibits must be portable and cannot be exhibited on a
trailer.
Woodworking 2
Any item made of wood constructed or refinished by the member, appropriate for their age, skills and
ability in this project. Pre-cut kits assembled by the member are not acceptable. Exhibits must be
portable, and cannot be exhibited on a trailer. Exhibits must be portable and cannot be exhibited on a
trailer.
Woodworking 3
Any item made of wood constructed or refinished by the member, appropriate for their age, skills and
ability in this project. Pre-cut kits assembled by the member are not acceptable. Exhibits must be
portable, and cannot be exhibited on a trailer. Exhibits must be portable and cannot be exhibited on a
trailer.
Woodworking 4
Any item made of wood constructed or refinished by the member, appropriate for their age, skills and
ability in this project. Pre-cut kits assembled by the member are not acceptable. Exhibits must be
portable, and cannot be exhibited on a trailer. Exhibits must be portable and cannot be exhibited on a
trailer.
Woodworking Clover Challenge
Open to 15-18 year olds enrolled in the Woodworking Clover Challenge Project who have completed
Woodworking 1, 2, 3 and 4. Exhibits in this category should go “above and beyond” what the 4-H project
books cover and should represent an accumulation of years of project study. The exhibit may include, but
isn’t limited to, original works, objects, demonstrations, digital presentations, programs, websites,
games, apps, performances, or posters which you have made. Choose whatever method best shows
what you’ve learned. You must furnish any equipment you need for your exhibit. Internet service will not
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be provided for the exhibit. All exhibits must include something visual, such as a printed copy of a digital
presentation, which will remain on display during the exhibition. Electronic equipment will only be used
during your personal judging time and will not remain on display during the entire exhibit period. The
completed Illinois 4-H Clover Challenge Agreement must be presented with the exhibit. The agreement
can be found at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state4h/projects/.
SPECIALTY CONTESTS
These contests will not be conference judged and are not eligible for premiums. Sign up for these contests on
the 4-H project selection sheet and turn in to your 4-H Leader by March 1. Be sure to mark your 4-H entry forms
that you want to exhibit in the contests. Please attach a 3 x 5 inch index card to your exhibit with your name,
club and age. Bring your entries to the 4-H General Show on Saturday. Sponsorships are available for the
contests. Prizes will be awarded based on sponsorships received.
CANDY MAKING CONTEST
For the contest, display 3 pieces of candy you have made on a disposable paper plate covered with plastic
wrap or bag, along with the recipe. Preferences will be provided to those entries that follow a recipe and
have a number of steps involved in making candy.
RECYCLED ART CONTEST
All you have to do is make something out of recycled materials from home (old milk jugs, egg crates, juice
bottles, ...). On your index entry card, please state an interesting fact about recycling with the source
listed.
PIE CRUST MADE WITH LARD
The Knox County Pork Producers sponsor a cash award given to the best pie crust made with lard. Exhibit
one whole unfilled pastry shell made with lard in an 8” or 9” pie pan. Please use the following recipe:
8- or 9-inch single crust pie:
Ingredients:
1 Cup all-purpose flour
1/3 Cup of lard
1/2 Teaspoon salt
3 to 4 Tablespoons cold water
Directions: Preheat oven to 450 0F. In medium bowl, combine flour and salt. Using pastry blender cut
in lard until particles are size of small peas.
Sprinkle flour mixture with water, 1 tablespoon at a time, while tossing and mixing lightly with a fork.
Add water until dough is just moist enough to hold together. (Too much water causes dough to be
sticky and tough; too little water causes edges to crack and pastry to tear while rolling.)
Form dough into ball. Place the ball on a well-floured pastry cloth or surface. Flatten ball slightly;
smooth edges.
With rolling pin, roll dough to a circle 1-inch wider than inverted 8- or 9-inch pie pan. Fold pastry into
quarter; place in pan and unfold, easing into pan, and press in place.
Flute the edge or a decorative edge. Prick the bottom and sides of the pastry generously with a fork.
Bake at 4500 F. for 9 to 12 minutes or until light golden brown. Let the pie cool.
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2015 Exhibition Livestock Health Requirements
Illinois Department of Agriculture
Bureau of Animal Health and Welfare
State Fairgrounds P.O. Box 19281
Springfield, IL 62794-9281
Phone (217) 782-4944
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Exhibitors are required to familiarize themselves with all rules applicable to their exhibits. All out-of-state
animals shall require an entry permit. Entry permit numbers are available by calling the Illinois Department of
Agriculture, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, at 217/782-4944. Permits may also be obtained
online at: http://www.agr.state.il.us/AnimalHW/animalregistry/login.php
2. All animals, except as noted, shall be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) which shows
that the animal meets all health requirements for the State of Illinois. CVI’s shall be made available to Bureau
of Animal Health Personnel on request. CVI means a legible record made on an official form from the state of
origin which has been issued, signed and dated by an accredited veterinarian and which shows the name and
address of the animal’s owner or exhibitor and the results of all required tests or vaccinations. A CVI shall list
only one animal identification per line; shall be presented on the form on which it was initially issued; and shall
not be corrected, changed or altered in any manner.
3. All animals shall be officially identified. The animal(s) official identification shall be recorded on the CVI.
4. If animals are from tuberculosis accredited, brucellosis certified, pseudorabies qualified, or brucellosis
validated herds, the identifying herd number(s) along with the date of the last herd test(s) shall appear on the
CVI.
5. CVI for out-of-state livestock shall be void thirty (30) days after issuance.
6. CVI for Illinois-origin livestock shall be void ninety (90) days after issuance.
7. All livestock shall be subject to examination upon entry to any Illinois fair or exhibition. Any animal showing
evidence of infectious, contagious or communicable diseases shall be immediately withdrawn and held in
quarantine at the owner’s risk and expense until properly treated and recovered, or until the animal is released
to return to the owner’s premise. Any livestock infected with scabies, mange, active lesions of ringworm,
soremouth, or multiple warts which are easily visible without close examination shall not be permitted to
exhibit and are subject to quarantine or removal from the fairgrounds. Sheep and goats with caseous
lymphadenitis as evidenced by draining abscesses shall not be exhibited and are subject to immediate
quarantine or removal from the fairgrounds.
8. Illinois Department of Agriculture personnel or designee may collect blood, tissue, milk or urine samples from
any animal being exhibited and/or raced at any Illinois fair to test for the presence of illegal drugs or banned
substances. New examination techniques, such as ultrasound, may also be used at anytime while the animals
are on the grounds of any Illinois fair or exhibit. The Illinois Department of Agriculture or designee may collect
urine, blood, tissue or other test samples from exhibition animals at the time of slaughter.
9. All exhibitors of animals at any Illinois fair or exhibition shall comply with the provisions of the Illinois Humane
Care for Animals Act. If violations are observed, the animals(s) will be excused from exhibition and ordered
removed from the grounds with all awards being forfeited. Any practice or deviation from normal, accepted
care, including physical, medical or mechanical application, shall constitute a violation of show rules and may
result in the animal(s) disqualification and removal from the fairgrounds.
10. Any Illinois cattle, bison, cervidae or goats being exhibited in non-accredited free states must be isolated from
the remainder of the herd/flock upon return to Illinois and retested for tuberculosis 60-120 days post-entry.
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CATTLE
Identification
Individual identification of each animal shall be either a fully healed and legible tattoo, approved official ear tag,
registration number (can only be used if the tattoo is recorded on the registration certificate or for breeds where
pictures are acceptable), or individual brands, if brand is recorded on the registration certificate.
Illinois Cattle
Brucellosis
Illinois is a Bovine Brucellosis Class-Free State. Brucellosis testing is not required for Illinois cattle.
Tuberculosis
Illinois is an Accredited Tuberculosis- Free State. Tuberculin testing is not required for Illinois cattle.
Please note: Illinois calves under 6 months of age, and Illinois steers are not required to have a Certificate of
Veterinary Inspection.
Out-of-State-Cattle
All out-of-state cattle are to be accompanied by an entry permit. Entry permit numbers are available by calling
the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, at 217/782-4944.
Permits may also be obtained online at: http://www.agr.state.il.us/AnimalHW/animalregistry/login.php
Brucellosis
1. Female cattle six (6) months of age and older and bulls eighteen (18) months of age and older shall be negative
to an official test for brucellosis within thirty (30) days prior to entry, unless exempt by one (1) of the following:
A. Originate directly from a certified brucellosis-free herd.
B. Official vaccinates of dairy breeds under twenty (20) months of age or official vaccinates of beef breeds
under twenty-four (24) months of age.
C. Animal originated from a “Class Free” state (if entire state is so classified)
D. Steers and spayed heifers are not required to be tested for brucellosis.
2. The negative brucellosis test shall be conducted at a state or federal laboratory within 30 days prior to
exhibition.
Tuberculosis
1. Accredited Tuberculosis Free States
A. No tuberculin test required. All cattle, including steers, originating from an Accredited Tuberculosis Free
State, may enter Illinois for exhibition when accompanied by a CVI issued by an accredited veterinarian
within 30 days.
2. Non-Accredited Tuberculosis Free Areas or States (Not TB Free)
A. Cattle must originate from a herd where a complete herd test was conducted within the past year.
B. The individual animals entering Illinois must be negative to an additional tuberculin test conducted within
30 days prior to exhibition.
C. Cattle that enter Illinois for exhibition and remain in Illinois (animal does not return to the state of origin
within 30 days) must be isolated and retested for TB 60-120 days from the last official TB test date.
SWINE
Illinois Swine
Identification
1. Swine shall be identified by an official ear tag, tattoo or recognized breed ear notch.
2. Ear notch identification is acceptable for barrows, crossbred gilts and breeding swine. (Note: Ear notch
identification of crossbred swine does not satisfy USDA identification requirements for brucellosis and
pseudorabies testing.)
Brucellosis
Brucellosis testing is not required for Illinois swine.
Pseudorabies
All exhibition swine are required to be tested for pseudorabies as described on next page.
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1. Swine of all ages shall be negative to an official test for pseudorabies conducted within 90 days prior to
exhibition; or swine shall originate immediately and directly from a qualified pseudorabies negative herd. (All
swine that are tested must be identified using an official, approved individual animal identifier such as an
official metal or official plastic ear tag. Ear notch identification for testing purposes is only acceptable for
purebred, registered swine.)
2. Barrows and females in market classes must meet the same requirements as breeding swine.
Additional Requirements
1. Swine consigned to terminal market classes must meet the same test requirements as exhibition swine if these
classes are held in conjunction with “exhibits not intended for slaughter”.
2. When terminal classes are held on a day when no other livestock are present, these animals are exempt from
all test requirements and do not need a CVI. All swine terminal classes must be identified by a site tattoo prior
to movement to slaughter.
3. Swine from pseudorabies-quarantined herds are not allowed to exhibit regardless of whether or not the show
is terminal or non-terminal.
4. The Illinois and DuQuoin State Fairs are not classified as terminal shows.
Out-of-State Swine
All out-of-state swine are to be accompanied by an entry permit. Entry permit numbers are available by calling
the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, at 217/782-4944.
Permits may also be obtained online at: http://www.agr.state.il.us/AnimalHW/animalregistry/login.php
Identification
1. Individually identified by an official ear tag, tattoo or recognized breed ear notch.
2. Ear notch identification is not acceptable for crossbred animals.
Brucellosis
1. Breeding swine 4 months of age and older shall be negative to an official test for brucellosis within 30 days
prior to exhibition unless exempt by one (1) of the following:
A. Originate immediately and directly from a validated brucellosis-free herd.
B. Originate directly from a validated brucellosis-free state.
2. Swine brucellosis tests for exhibition shall be conducted at a state or federal laboratory.
Pseudorabies
All exhibition swine are required to be tested for pseudorabies as described below.
1. Swine shall be negative to an official test for pseudorabies conducted within the past thirty (30) days prior to
entry or originate immediately and directly from a qualified pseudorabies negative herd.
2. Barrows and females in market classes must meet the same requirements as breeding swine.
3. The Illinois and DuQuoin State Fairs are not classified as terminal shows.
SHEEP
Identification
Individual identification of each animal shall be by an ear tattoo or official metal or plastic tag. A microchip ID is
acceptable if the owner provides the reader. Ear tattoos may be used when a registration certificate, listing the
tattoo number, accompanies the animal. When using ear tags, the tag must indicate the premises ID and state of
origin. The tag number must be assigned by a state or APHIS representative and recorded in the Scrapie Record
Database.
Market Lambs
All wethers must be slick shorn (show ring ready) before weigh-in so that show lamb fungus can be identified.
Illinois Sheep
1. Sheep originating from a flock that has previously been classified as either an infected or source flock can be
exhibited in Illinois upon the completion of an approved flock plan.
2. For any animal born after 1/1/2002, the CVI must include the flock of birth and the flock of origin, if different.
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Out-of-State Sheep
All out-of-state sheep are to be accompanied by an entry permit. Entry permit numbers are available by calling
the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, at 217/782-4944.
Permits may also be obtained online at: http://www.agr.state.il.us/AnimalHW/animalregistry/login.php
1. Sheep originating from a flock that has previously been classified as either an infected or source flock can be
exhibited in Illinois upon the completion of an approved flock plan.
2. For any animal born after 1/1/2002, the CVI must include the flock of birth and the flock of origin, if different.
GOATS
Identification
Individual identification of each animal shall be by an ear tattoo or official metal or plastic tag. A microchip ID is
acceptable if the owner provides the reader. Tattoos may be used when a registration certificate, listing the
tattoo number, accompanies the animal. When using ear tags, the tag must indicate the premises ID and state of
origin. The tag number must be assigned by a state or APHIS representative and recorded in the Scrapie Record
Database. Ears should be used for tattooing when possible. If there is no space in the ear, the flank or tail fold
may be used.
Illinois Goats
1. Goats originating from a herd that has previously been classified as either an infected or source herd can be
exhibited in Illinois upon the completion of an approved herd plan.
2. For any animal born after 1/1/2002, the CVI must include the flock of birth and the flock of origin, if different.
Out-of-State Goats
All out-of-state goats are to be accompanied by an entry permit. Entry permit numbers are available by calling
the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, at 217/782-4944.
Permits may also be obtained online at: http://www.agr.state.il.us/AnimalHW/animalregistry/login.php
1. Goats originating from a herd that has previously been classified as either an infected or source herd can be
exhibited in Illinois upon the completion of an approved herd plan.
2. Tuberculosis- Goats from areas or states that are not Accredited Bovine Tuberculosis Free, must be
accompanied by a CVI indicating that the goats originated from a herd where a complete negative herd test has
been conducted within the past twelve (12) months and the individual animals are negative to a tuberculin test
conducted within thirty (30) days prior to entry. For any animal born after 1/1/2002, the CVI must include the
flock of birth and the flock of origin, if different.
HORSES, PONIES, MULES AND OTHER EQUIDAE
Illinois Equine
1. All horses and other equidae, twelve (12) months of age and older attending an advertised equine event, shall
be accompanied by a negative test for equine infectious anemia (EIA) conducted within the last twelve (12)
months. A copy of this test shall accompany the animal.
2. AGID (Coggins) or ELISA tests are accepted.
3. An advertised equine event means a show, rodeo, sale, auction, exhibition, trail ride, or horse fair that is
posted or media promoted.
4. A CVI is not required for Illinois equine.
Out-of-State Equine
All out-of-state equine are to be accompanied by an entry permit. Entry permit numbers are available by calling
the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, at 217/782-4944.
Permits may also be obtained online at: http://www.agr.state.il.us/AnimalHW/animalregistry/login.php
1. All horses and other equidae entering Illinois that are twelve (12) months of age or older, shall be
accompanied by a negative test for equine infectious anemia (EIA) conducted within the last twelve (12)
months. A copy of this test shall accompany the animal.
2. AGID (Coggins) or ELISA tests are accepted.
3. All horses and other equidae shall be accompanied by a CVI issued within thirty (30) days prior to entry.
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POULTRY
1. All entries (except waterfowl, i.e. domesticated fowl that normally swim, such as ducks and geese) in a show or
exhibition shall have originated from a U.S. Pullorum-Typhoid Clean or equivalent hatchery or flock OR have a
negative pullorum-typhoid test within 90 days prior to exhibition. Exhibitor shall show proper information as to
name and address of owner or exhibitor, name and address of the authorized testing agent, date of the testing
and the number, breed, and species of those tested.
2. Prior to being used to transport poultry to a show, all crates, boxes, containers and vehicles shall be thoroughly
cleaned and disinfected.
3. Any poultry vaccinations must be performed at least 4 weeks prior to delivery to the show.
4. Upon admission to a show, all entries shall be examined by the official county fair veterinarian or qualified
state personnel who shall also receive and examine all certificates necessary for admission of birds to a show.
Birds not in show condition will be excused from exhibition and removed from the premises. Any fowl showing
signs of illness during the fair will be removed from the exhibition grounds.
5. All out-of-state turkeys must originate from flocks that are officially classified as U.S. Mycoplasma
Gallisepticum Clean in accordance with the provisions of the National Poultry Improvement Plan or be negative
to a test for Mycoplasma gallisepticum within 30 days prior to entry.
6. A permit is also required for out-of-state poultry. A permit may be obtained by calling (217) 782-4944.
Please note: These poultry exhibition requirements do not apply to 4-H and FFA 1-day poultry shows where
the entries are taken to the show and returned home the same day. However, a permit is required for out-ofstate poultry.
RABBITS
There are no requirements governing the movements of rabbits within or into Illinois.
LIVESTOCK SHOW
BEEF
Beef I: Bite Into Beef, Beef II: Here’s the Beef, Beef III: Leading the Charge
Steer
1. Club members may own and feed one or more beef steers which are registered under 4-H member's
name, but may exhibit only two steers which have been weighed and tattooed at the February
Weigh-In.
2. The top ten Rate of Gain (performance steers) will be ranked and recognized with first and second
place designated as Champion and Reserve Champion.
3. Animals may be purebred or crossbred steers.
4. All steers will be shown in one of the following categories - British Breeds, All Other Breeds or
Crossbred. Registration papers should be brought to the scales with the steer Sunday evening weigh
in.
5. Breeds will show by weight. Champion of each breed, (British, All Other Breeds, Crossbred) will show
for Grand Champion Overall.
6. All steers must have been born on or after January 1, 2014.
7. Beef steers must have been owned by February 1, 2015.
8. All steers will be dehorned prior to the 4-H Show.
9. All steers exhibited will be weighed for classification at the 4-H Show.
10. A Champion and Reserve Champion will be selected from each weight division, assuming they were
"Blue" ratings. A Grand Champion and a Reserve Grand Champion of the 4-H Show overall will be
selected from the Champion and Reserve Champion of each respective weight division.
11. Superintendents will be responsible for assigning space for all steer entries. All steers should be
double-tied.
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12. All steers must be groomed in immediate barn area. State Fair Jr. Show rules on fitting will be
enforced.
13. Chutes will be allowed in the barns only at the discretion of the superintendents.
14. A certificate of veterinary inspection is not required.
15. Showmanship classes are junior (ages 8-10); Intermediate (11-13) and Senior (14 and older). Age as
of date of show.
16. 4-H members, ages 12 and older, as of September 1, of the current 4-H year, showing a steer or
heifer would not be eligible to show a bucket calf.
17. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal during show time have the option to
prepare a display and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
18. If a steer does not make the minimum weight of 800 pounds he will not be eligible to show.
Steer – Exhibiting 1 or 2 Steers
BRITISH BREEDS - Steers with registration papers from one of the following breed associations:
Angus - Hereford – Shorthorn
ALL OTHER BREEDS – Steers with registration papers from any other breed association
CROSSBRED- Steers having no registration papers
BEEF BREEDING
Beef I: Bite Into Beef, Beef II: Here’s the Beef, Beef III: Leading the Charge
1. Certificates of veterinary inspection and registration papers will be checked at the weigh-in area with
the Beef Breeding Superintendent on Sunday evening.
2. Breed classes will be shown by age.
3. Beef breeding females must be checked in (registration papers, age, etc.) with the Beef Breeding
Superintendent by 8:00 PM, Sunday, July 12, 2015.
4. Heifer and heifer calves must have been owned by May 1, 2015.
5. Each exhibitor may show more than one of an age category (Example: Jr. Yearling Heifer). However,
they must be of different breeds.
6. A club member may feed and own one or more animals. A club member should keep continuous
records on all the beef animals they actually own.
7. Chutes will be allowed in the barns only at the discretion of the superintendents.
8. Registration papers are required on each purebred animal exhibited and must show ownership in the
exhibitor's name. The date shown on the registration papers is to be taken as the effective date of
ownership of the animal. Rules of the purebred division also apply to grade or crossbred animals,
except registration is not required. However, they must still be checked in by the superintendents
upon arrival.
9. Show order will be posted by the Beef Breeding Committee and is listed below classes.
10. Be sure to state the breed on your entry form. (Breeds not stipulated will be entered under
"commercial".)
11. 4-H members, ages 12 and older, as of September 1, 2014, showing a steer or heifer would not be
eligible to show a bucket calf.
12. Commercial or grade will be exhibited by weight determined at check in on Sunday evening and
classes established accordingly. Exhibitors are limited to three crossbred heifers regardless of
weight.
13. Showmanship classes are junior (ages 8-10); Intermediate (11-13) and Senior (14 and older). Age as
of date of show.
14. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring animals have the option to prepare a display and
exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
15. For beef clover challenge please see clover challenge under Animal Science.
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16. All cattle, except steers and calves less than six months of age are to be accompanied by a certificate
of veterinary inspection issued within 90 days prior to exhibition, showing individual identification of
each animal by a fully healed and legible tattoo, official metal tag, or registration number, or
individual brands, if brand is recorded on the registration certificate.
Tuberculosis: Illinois is an Accredited Tuberculosis-Free State. Tuberculin test is not required for Illinois
cattle.
Brucellosis: Illinois is a Bovine Brucellosis Class-Free State. Brucellosis testing is not required for Illinois
cattle.
Heifer Classes – Please mark breed of heifer on your fair entry form.
Jr. Heifer Calf – born after January 1, 2015
Sr. Heifer Calf - born October 1 - December 31, 2014
Summer Yearling Heifer - born July 1 - September 30, 2014
Late Jr. Yearling Heifer - born April 1 - June 30, 2014
Early Jr. Yearling Heifer - born January 1 - March 31, 2014
Senior Yearling Heifer - born during 2013 (If calved by show date, animals automatically go into cow and
calf class.)
1.
2.
3.
4.
COW/CALF
Beef females in cow class must have been owned by January 1, 2015.
The beef cow and calf class will consist of a cow with a calf born on or after January 1 of current year.
If the calf is a bull, it must be shown with the cow. If the calf is a heifer, the heifer may be either in
its respective age class or with the cow, but not both. If the cow shows without her calf, she will
show against cows with calves. The class will be judged 60% on the cow and 40% on the calf.
There will be purebred and crossbred cow classes.
A cow that wins champion of the Cow and Calf class will be ineligible to compete at future Knox
County 4-H Shows.
Cow/Calf Classes:
COW and CALF - COW BORN AFTER JANUARY 1, 2013 and must be a first calf cow only. Calf must be born
after January 1, 2015
COW and CALF – COW BORN BEFORE JANUARY 2013. Calf must be born after January 1, 2015.
Show Order - 2015
Will be alphabetical and posted after Sunday’s check-in. If there are 3 or more entries in a breed, then there will
be a division for that breed. If there are less than 3 entries, it will go under All Other Breeds.
Breed Requirements:
Angus – Purebred; Chianina – Recorded; Maine Anjou – Recorded; Shorthorn – 15/16 or higher; Simmental – ¾ or
higher; Charolais – Purebred; Hereford – Purebred; Limousin ¾ or higher; Polled Hereford – Purebred; Red Poll –
15/16 or higher; Simbrah – Recorded; Gelbveih – Recorded; % Simmental – Less than ¾
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BUCKET CALF
Bucket Calf Class
Bucket Calf Records Class
1. For bucket calf records exhibit, exhibit should include the 4-H Bucket Calf Project Record (2 pages)
and the member’s project goal sheet. These records must be turned in to the superintendent on
Sunday, July 12 by 8:00 p.m. and will be mailed back after the show.
2. Female calves 6 months and older at time of show must have a certificate of veterinary inspection.
3. Calves will be haltered and tied.
4. A separate pen will be provided for all bucket calves, but sharing of a stall may be necessary due to
space limitations.
5. All bucket calves must be kept in the stall assigned.
6. Classes will be judged on 4-H’ers knowledge of project; no emphasis will be placed on quality or
confirmation of calf.
7. Classes will be divided by age of the exhibitor and number of years in bucket calf show.
8. Calves must have been born between January 1 and May 1 of current project year and be property of
the exhibitor by May 1, 2015.
9. Exhibits are not eligible for beef show or sale, dairy show, or showmanship classes.
10. One calf per exhibitor.
11. Bucket calf exhibitors are not eligible for beef or dairy showmanship classes.
12. 4-H members, ages 12 and older, as of September 1 of the current 4-H year, showing a steer or
heifer would not be eligible to show a bucket calf.
13. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal during the show time have the option
to prepare a display and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
14. All stalls must be cleaned by the 4-H’er with straw removed to the nearest dumpster prior to
departure after the conclusion of the swine show.
DAIRY CATTLE
Dairy I: Cowabunga! Dairy II: Moooving Ahead, Dairy III: Rising to the Top
1. A club member may own and feed one or more animals. A member should keep continuous records
on all the dairy animals they actually own. Registration papers are required on each purebred
exhibited and must show ownership in the exhibitor's name.
2. Due to the small number of Dairy Projects exhibited, purebred and grades of the respective breeds
will be shown together.
3. Each exhibitor is limited to one entry in each class.
4. A cow may be shown only once.
5. Dairy calves and heifers must have been owned by May 1, 2015.
6. Dairy cows calved before July 1, 2012 must have been owned by January 1, 2015.
7. Dairy animals will be exhibited in the following classifications:
8. Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion overall breeds will be selected from the first and
second place animals in each breed, assuming they are "Blue" ratings.
9. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal during show time have the option to
prepare a display and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
10. For dairy clover challenge please see Clover Challenge under Animal Science.
11. All cattle, except steers and calves less than six months of age are to be accompanied by a certificate
of veterinary inspection issued within 90 days prior to exhibition, showing individual identification of
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each animal by a fully healed and legible tattoo, official metal ear tag, or registration number, or
individual brands, if brand is recorded on the registration certificate.
12. Animals will be checked in from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
13. All pens will be cleaned before departing from the grounds.
Dairy Classes Jr. Heifer Calf - born on or after December 1, 2014
Sr. Heifer Calf - born September 1 - November 30, 2014
Jr. Yearling Heifer - born March 1 - August 31, 2014
Sr. Yearling Heifer - born September 1, 2013 - February 28, 2014
Bred Heifer or Cow
GOAT
Dairy Goat I: Getting Your Goat, Dairy Goat II: Stepping Out, Dairy Goat III: Showing the Way, Meat Goat I: Just
Browsing, Meat Goat II: Growing with Meat Goats, Meat Goat III: Meating the Future
1. Certificate of veterinary inspection will be required for goats. The CVI must include the statement:
“The goats listed above were not exhibiting clinical signs of scrapie at the time of examination”.
See health rules for additional information. Goats, including dairy goats, with any or all of the
following conditions shall not be exhibited and must be removed immediately from the exhibition
area: 1) lesions of contagious ecthyma (sore mouth), 2) active lesions of ringworm with resulting loss
of hair, and 3) caseous lymphadenitis as evidenced by draining abscesses.
2. Identification of each animal shall be an ear tattoo, official metal or plastic ear tag or other positive
identification.
3. All goats must have been owned and cared for by the exhibitor by May 1 of the current year.
4. Wethers may be crossbred. All wethers need to weighed-in at the sheep weigh-in on Sunday, July
12, from 4 to 8 p.m.
5. Each member is limited to 1 entry per class, except for market wethers, which can have 2 with only
one monies awarded per class.
6. All goats must have a scrapie tag.
7. Exhibitors should be dressed in white for showing dairy only. Showmanship classes are junior (ages
8-10); Intermediate (11-13) and Senior (14 and older). Age as of date of show.
8. Do not milk doe before showing.
9. Meat, dairy, pygmy and exotic goats will NOT be shown together.
10. Meat goat classes will be shown together unless there are enough breed classes to justify dividing
them. If the superintendent deems it necessary, they will be shown in the following order: All
Percentage Breeds, All Purebred/Full blood, and Commercial.
11. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal have the option to prepare a display
and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
12. For goat clover challenge please see Clover Challenge under Animal Science.
13. All pens will be cleaned before departing from the grounds.
14. All market wethers must have milk teeth. This will be checked at weigh in.
15. Market wether classes determined by weight.
Dairy Goat Classes:
Doe Kid, under 5 months
Doe Kid, 5 months and under 1 year
Yearling doe 1 year and under 2 year, not in milk
Milking Yearling, 1 year and under 2
Milking Doe, 2 years and under 4
Milking Doe, 4 years and older
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Pygmy Goat Classes:
Junior Doe Kid, under 5 months of age
Intermediate Doe Kid, 5 months to under 1 year
Senior Doe Kid, 1 year to 2 years
THESE CLASSES MUST HAVE FRESHENED
Freshened Doe, under 24 months
Two Year Old Doe, 24 months and to under 36 months
Three Year Old Doe, 36 months to under 48 months
Four Year Old Doe & Over, 48 months and over
Exotic Goat Classes:
Doe, under 5 months
Doe, 5 months and under 1 year
Doe, 1 year and under 2 years
Doe, 2 years and under 4 years
Doe, 4 years and older
Meat Goat Classes are:
Doe, under 4 months
Doe, 4 months and under 8 months
Doe, 8 months and under 12 months
Doe, 12 months and under 24 months
Doe, 24 months and under 36 months
Doe, 36 months and under 48 months
HORSE AND PONY
Horse I: Giddy Up and Go, Horse II: Head, Heart & Hooves, Horse III: Stable Relationships, Horse IV: Riding the
Range, Horse V: Jumping to New Heights
1. Illinois Equine (horses, ponies, mules, etc.)- (Exhibition and Race) 12 months and older shall be
accompanied by a NEGATIVE TEST FOR Equine Infectious Anemia/E.I.A. (Coggins/CELISA) conducted
WITHIN ONE (1) YEAR. A health certificate (Certificate of Veterinary Inspection) is not required for
Illinois equine. MUST BRING NEGATIVE COGGINS CERTIFICATE TO SHOW.
2. All horses, ponies and mules must be owned or leased by the individual 4-H member by April 1. No
partnership will be allowed. If there is any doubt as to ownership or lease, the exhibitor must be
prepared to prove ownership to the satisfaction of the Horse and Pony Superintendents, or they will
be disqualified from the class in question. Any questioning of an exhibit must be brought to the
attention of the superintendent prior to the show. The lease document is available from the
Extension office and must be turned in by May 1 of the current 4-H year.
3. Mature animals will be classified as follows:
a. Ponies or mules under 56 inches – classified as pony.
b. Horses or mules 56 inches and over – classified as horse.
4. Four halter classifications will be offered from the Horse and Pony halter classes:
a. Horse or Pony Foal - foaled on or after January 1, 2015.
b. Horse or Pony Yearling Filly or Gelding - foaled January 1 - December 31, 2014.
c. Horse or Pony Aged Mare or Gelding - foaled on or before December 31, 2013.
d. English - all ages
Each horse, pony or mule may only be shown in one halter class.
5. Gaited Pleasure Class is for those horses not showing in English or Western pleasure classes.
6. Animals may be purebred, grade or crossbred. NO STALLIONS ALLOWED.
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7. Exhibitor is limited to one entry per class.
8. Exhibitors must present a signed permission to participate form signed by a parent or guardian at
registration.
4-H HORSEMANSHIP UNIT
1. Judging will be based on the member's ability to ride and handle a horse or pony rather than the
horse and pony's conformation or previous training.
2. A member will keep feed records on animals in addition to horsemanship records.
3. There will be two divisions in Horsemanship unit:
a. Beginning
b. Intermediate/Advanced
4. "Horsemanship" classes: Judged upon 75 percent rider's ability and 25 percent horse's ability.
5. There will be two divisions in the pleasure riding class. The class is judged on performance of horse to
give the most pleasurable ride.
a. Beginning
b. Intermediate/Advanced
6. "Pleasure" classes: Judged upon 75 percent horse's ability and 25 percent rider's ability.
7. The "NOVICE WALK-TROT" class is for first and second year riders only. If exhibiting in this class,
exhibitor may not exhibit in any horsemanship or pleasure classes, or class which may require lope.
8. All classes except NOVICE WALK-TROT are open to all exhibitors, one entry per class. Grand
Champion Class will be 1st and 2nd places with blue ratings from all previous classes ie
Showmanship/Halter/Horsemanship/ Pleasure.
9. A horse or pony may be exhibited both in the horse or pony halter classes and in the horsemanship
classes.
10. A horse or pony may be shown in the horsemanship division more than one year if desired.
11. Single driving class is open to both horses and ponies. A two or four-wheel vehicle will be acceptable.
Headers will be optional.
12. No horses or ponies will be stalled for the 4-H Show. All horses and ponies should be brought to the
HORSE ARENA ACROSS FROM THE CARL SANDBURG COLLEGE ENTRANCE (COMMONLY KNOWN AS
THE BOOTS AND SADDLE CLUB ARENA) no later than 8 a.m. on the day of the Horse and Pony Show.
All horses and ponies will be removed from the CITY grounds immediately following the completion
of the Horse and Pony Show. ALL MANURE must be picked up and put into appropriate containers
provided.
13. Any animal causing a disturbance or danger to themselves or others may be removed from the show
area or excused from the Show as to be determined by the superintendent.
14. Championship classes: first and second places, blue ratings only.
15. Attire: Non-riding class exhibitors must wear Western Boots and Hats or English Boots and Hats.
A HELMET IS REQUIRED BY ANY EXHIBITOR SHOWING IN ANY RIDING CLASS.
16. The last 10 classes are considered unpaid.
17. Exhibitors not able to be present or bring their animals during show time have the option to prepare a
display and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
18. For horse clover challenge please see Clover Challenge under Animal Science.
19. Helmets for riding classes are REQUIRED.
Mules: once measured, must be the same all of the show. Any questions as to classification will be decided by
the superintendent of the Horse and Pony Division.
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EXHIBIT CLASSES - AND SHOW ORDER
SHOWMANSHIP
Sr. Showmanship - (Age 14-19)
Intermediate Showmanship – (Age 11-13)
Jr. Showmanship - (Age 8-10)
Grand Champion Showmanship
HALTER
Horse under 40”mare or gelding
Pony Foal
Pony Yearling Filly or Gelding
Pony Aged Mare or Gelding
Horse Foal
Horse Yearling Filly or Gelding
Horse Aged Mare or Gelding
English type Halter
Grand Champion Horse at Halter
Novice: Walk-Trot (First and Second Year Riders Only)
Open Walk-Trot
PERFORMANCE ENGLISH TYPE
Hunter Hack (over fences)
English Hunt Seat
English Saddle Seat
English Equitation
English Pleasure
Gaited Pleasure
Grand Champion English
PERFORMANCE WESTERN TYPE
Int/Advanced Western Horsemanship
Beginning Western Horsemanship
Int/Advanced Western Pleasure
Beginning Western Pleasure
Grand Champion Pleasure
SPEED EVENTS
Barrels
Flags
Plug Race
Poles
Egg and Spoon
Grand Champion Speed Events
Izzy Dizzy Bat Race
FUN (class to be announced)
Tuck a Buck
Single Driving Class
Costume
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POULTRY
Poultry I: Scratching the Surface, Poultry II: Testing Your Wings, Poultry III: Flocking Together
Exhibitor may make 1 entry per class.
1. All poultry must be hatched in 2015. All chickens hatched at home must have blood testing one month prior
to show. Contact the Extension office for testing date and time.
2. Exhibitors much bring proof of purchase to fair to be presented at check-in. Please read poultry
exhibition
rules on page 61.
3. Upon admission to a show, all entries shall be examined by the official county fair veterinarian or qualified
personnel who shall also receive and examine all certificates necessary for admission of birds to a show. Birds
not in show condition will be excused from exhibition and removed from the premises. Any fowl showing signs
of illness during the fair will be removed from the exhibition grounds.
4. The meat classes will be judged on conformation, fleshing, finish, feathering and uniformity.
5. A breeding pen shall consist of a cockerel and 2 pullets.
6. Exhibits must arrive before 8:00 p.m. on Sunday.
7. Exhibits will be released at the conclusion of the swine show or at 3:00 p.m. whichever is later.
8. Exhibitors not able to be present or bring their animals during show time have the option to prepare a display
and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
9. For poultry clover challenge, please see Clover Challenge under Animal Science.
10. Each exhibitor is required to clean out pens they use.
11. Each exhibitor must provide own feed, water and fans for poultry/waterfowl.
Large Fowl Classes
American Breed
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
Asiatic Breed
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
English Breed
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
Mediterranean Breed
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
Other Standard Breed
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
Production Hybrid
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
Champion Large Fowl Overall
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
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All American Breeds: Rocks, Wyandotte, Rhode Island Reds
All Asiatic Breeds: All Feather Leg Breeds, Brahmas, Cochins, Langshans
All English Breeds: Sussex, Orpington, Australorp, Cornish
All Mediterranean Breeds: Leghorn, Minorca, Andalusian, Ancona
All Other Standard Breeds: Polish, Hamburg
All Production Hybrids: Production Reds and all other Crossbred
Bantams
Clean Legged
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
Feather Legged
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
Champion Bantam Overall
Cockerel
Pullet
Pen
Meat Classes:
Consists of 3 birds (3 Males or 3 Females)
Broiler-fryer - each weighing under 4 pounds
Roaster - each weighing 4 pounds or over
Champion Overall
Grand Champion Bird Overall
Egg Production
Egg Production – Must be chicken eggs
1. Exhibits shall consist of one (1) dozen eggs.
2. Limit of one entry in egg production class per exhibitor.
3. This will be shown following poultry division. Advise superintendent you are exhibiting eggs.
DUCKS AND GEESE
Project must be started before May 1, 2015. Must be hatched in 2015.
Classes Ducks - (single duck: male or female)
Ducks - (pen: one drake and one hen)
Turkey - (single: male or female)
Turkey - (pen: one tom and one hen)
Geese - (single: male or female)
Geese - (pen: one gander and one goose)
Guinea - (single: male or female)
Guinea - (pen: one male and one female)
Other
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RABBITS
Rabbit I: What’s Hoppening?, Rabbit II: Making Tracks, Rabbit III: All Ears!
1. A certificate of veterinary inspection will not be required. However, animals must be inspected by
the 4-H member and a parent prior to bringing them onto the fairgrounds. Animals which are
apparently sick, nasal discharge, or have sores on them will not be shown.
2. Rabbits must be on the show grounds before 8:00 PM, Sunday, July 12, 2015.
3. Registration papers will not be required in the rabbit breeding classes.
4. A champion individual overall breeds will be selected and a champion meat pen.
5. Exhibits may not be released before 3:00 PM last day of show.
6. Exhibitors may exhibit two entries in each age category, but must be of different breeds.
7. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal(s) have the option to prepare a display
and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display. Another option is to sign-up for
small pets/rabbits, if the animal is strictly a pet. See Small Pet section for more information.
8. For clover challenge rabbits please see Clover Challenge under Animal Science category.
9. Only exhibit animals allowed on the fairgrounds.
Rabbits will be shown in the following breed classifications and classes. (This follows American Rabbit Breeders
Association guidelines.)
California and Rex classes:
Senior Doe (over 8 months old)
Senior Buck (over 8 months old)
Doe (6 to 8 months old)
Buck (6 to 8 months old)
Junior Doe (under 6 months old)
Junior Buck (under 6 months old)
Netherland Dwarf, Dutch, New Zealand, Holland Lop, Mini Lop, Mini Rex, All Other Breeds, Jersey Wooly and
Crossbreds Classes:
Senior Doe (over 6 months)
Senior Buck (over 6 months)
Jr. Buck (under 6 months)
Jr. Doe (under 6 months)
Meat Pen is a pen of 3 rabbits. Recognized meat breeds of rabbits for State Fair will be allowed in this class.
Rabbits are not to be over 70 days old or 5 pounds in weight.
Breeds
Netherland Dwarf, New Zealand, Dutch, Jersey Wooly, Rex, Holland Lop, Mini Lop, Mini Rex, All Other Breeds,
Crossbred, and California. NOTE: If there are enough entries in a certain breed currently in the All Other Breeds
classification, that breed may be added as a separate classification. (Subject to Superintendents approval.)
SHEEP
Sheep I: Lambs Rams & You, Sheep II: Shear Delight, Sheep III: Leading the Flock
1. Individual identification of each animal shall be an ear tattoo, official metal or plastic tag or other positive
identification.
a. All wethers must be slick shorn (show ring ready) before weigh-in so that show lamb fungus can be
identified.
b. The certificate of veterinary inspection must include the following statement: “The sheep listed
above were not exhibiting clinical signs of scrapie at the time of examination”.
c. Sheep from a flock with a laboratory diagnosis of scrapie are not permitted to exhibit unless they
have been in the voluntary scrapie flock certification program for at least three (3) years.
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2. Registration papers are required on each purebred exhibited and must show ownership in the exhibitor's
name.
3. The purebred ewe lamb and the market lambs (single and pens) should be started in the spring when the
lambs are weaned and in no case later than May 1st.
4. All other projects must be started on or before January 1, 2015.
5. Market lambs will be divided into weight divisions as determined by superintendents. Market lambs must
be wethers.
6. A Grand Champion and Reserve Champion Single Market Lamb and a Grand Champion and Reserve
Champion Pen of Market Lambs will be selected from the "Blue" rating singles and pens.
7. Lambs must be born on or after January 1, 2015.
8. Yearling ewes must be born on or after January 1, 2014.
9. Aged ewes must be born on or before January 1, 2013.
10. Purebred pen will consist of purebred animals and registration papers will accompany each animal. The
purebred pen of two will consist of two (2) ewe lambs. All must be from registered parents. Any purebred
lamb shown in the purebred classes will not be shown again in the market classes. No wethers are allowed in
this class.
11. May show more than one ewe in an age category; however, the ewe must be of a different breed.
12. The same rules and dates for purebreds will apply to crossbreds except item #2 (no registration required).
13. All sheep exhibited in this division must have been fed by and cared for and been the property of the
exhibitor since May 1, 2015.
14. Showmanship classes are junior (ages 8-10); Intermediate (11-13) and Senior (14 and older). Age as of date
of show.
15. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal(s) have the option to prepare a display and
exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
16. For sheep clover challenge please see Clover Challenge under Animal Science.
17. Exhibitors need to check in the show ring for weight classes on the morning of the show.
Sheep Classes
Purebred
Aged Ewe
Aged Ewe Pen
Yearling Ewe
Yearling Ewe Pen
Ewe Lamb
Ewe Lamb Pen
Crossbred
Aged Ewe
Aged Ewe Pen
Yearling Ewe
Yearling Ewe Pen
Ewe Lamb
Ewe Lamb Pen
Single Market Lamb
Market Pen of Lambs
Sheep Show Order
Hampshire, Suffolk, Cheviot, Crossbred, AOB, Corriedale, Montadale, Oxford, Southdown, Shropshire
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SWINE
Swine I: The Incredible Pig, Swine II: Putting the Oink in Pig, Swine III: Going Whole Hog
Exhibitor may show purebred barrows and gilts.
1. Must have registration papers in exhibitor’s name.
2. Purebred classes based on numbers.
3. Showmanship classes are junior (ages 8-10), Intermediate (11-13), and Senior (14 and older). Age as
of date of show.
BARROWS
1. All swine animals are required to have a pseudorabies blood test within 90 days prior to the 4-H
show which must be negative. Bring health certificates for each animal with you. Swine from
pseudorabies quarantined herds ARE NOT ALLOWED to exhibit regardless of whether or not the
show is terminal or non terminal.
2. All barrows have to be ear notched in both ears.
3. All barrows exhibited in this division must have been fed by and have been the property of the
exhibitor since June 1, 2015.
4. Non-sale 4-H barrows are excused at the conclusion of the 4-H show.
5. Each exhibitor is limited to two single barrows for entry in this division.
6. Barrows must have been farrowed on or after January 1, 2015. Barrows will be weighed and divided
into weight classes.
7. A Grand and Reserve Grand Champion single barrow of the show will be selected from the Champion
Purebred Barrow and the division winners, assuming they were "Blue" ratings.
8. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal(s) have the option to prepare a display
and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
9. For clover challenge swine please see Clover Challenge under Animal Science category.
BREEDING GILT
1. All swine animals are required to have a pseudorabies blood test within 90 days prior to the 4-H
show which must be negative. Bring the certificate of veterinary inspection for each animal with you
and present at the weigh-in location. Swine from pseudorabies quarantined herds ARE NOT
ALLOWED to exhibit regardless of whether or not the show is terminal or non terminal.
2. All gilts have to be ear notched in both ears.
3. Gilts may be taken home on Tuesday at conclusion of show. No transportation provided after the
show.
4. The Gilt Class shall consist of one gilt born on or after January 1, 2015.
5. Swine must have been owned by June 1, 2015.
6. Exhibitors must use only the pen assigned by the superintendent or assistants.
7. Judging will be based on breeding characteristics.
8. Exhibitors not able to be present or able to bring their animal(s) have the option to prepare a display
and exhibit at the General Show. Sign up for Animal Science display.
9. For clover challenge swine please see Clover Challenge under the Animal Science category.
Exhibitor can show – 2 gilts and 1 barrow, OR 2 barrows and 1 gilt for a total of 3 swine.
Barrow
Gilt
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CLEAN STALL AWARD
4-H clubs exhibiting livestock will be judged on Monday and Tuesday at random times for presentation of the
Clean Stall Award. The award will be announced on Tuesday either during the 4-H swine show or during the
Junior Livestock Sale. Club members are to keep their pen and stall areas clean, tidy and presentable to the
public. Decorations and signs may be used as long as the fairground property is maintained. In addition, all
safety measures should be taken for children and the public. Local business representatives are usually
requested to be judges.
KNOX COUNTY MASTER SHOWMANSHIP CONTEST
(Beef, Sheep, Swine)
Monday, July 13 at 5:00 p.m.
 Exhibitors must be fourteen years or older and enrolled in a 4-H livestock project.
 The participant must supply his or her own livestock for competition which is an exhibit at the
current 4-H Show. They shall own, or borrow each of the three: a steer/heifer, a market lamb,
and a market hog. The participant may borrow from another Knox County 4-H member who is
an exhibitor at the 4-H Show. Each animal can be used only once in each division.
 Each exhibitor will exhibit and answer questions about each specie.
 The top exhibitor selected must be able to attend the Illinois State Fair 2015 Master
Showmanship Contest on Friday, August 14 at 7:30 p.m. on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
 One overall grand winner and alternate will be selected with one representing Knox County at
the state contest.
 A rosette will be given to the alternate at the conclusion of the contest.
 A division winner will also be selected in beef, sheep and swine.
 The judge and/or judges will be furnished only for this contest.
 You may only win Master Showmanship once.
The Knox County 4-H Livestock Committee will make all final decisions regarding this contest and the decision of
the judges will be final.
Artwork by: Jenna Cisna
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