4-H youth shine at 178th Muskingum County Fair

ZANESVILLE, OH- The 178th Muskingum County Fair is in full swing this week. A central part to the success of the county fair each year is the 4-H youth members.

Hundreds of 4-H members are showcasing their hard work this week, from preparing exhibits to raising livestock, the dedication of the members not only preserves the agricultural heritage of Muskingum County but also helps the county fair thrive. Gracie Jean is an 11-year-old girl in her second year of 4-H who has one of the 250 pigs being shown at this year’s fair.

“My favorite part has been showmanship and just enjoying the fun and the hard work you put into it, it’s so nice that you get that back when you do well, or just even being at the show it just feels so good because you worked so hard,” said Banner Chasers 4-H Club Member, Gracie Jean Kvamme.

The 4-H program teaches the youth valuable life skills such as leadership, responsibility, and teamwork, which is in full display as you walk through the livestock barns and exhibit halls. 4-H is not only about the animals and projects, but also building the future leaders in our community.

“So, you have to come in in the morning and at night and work with your pig every day, clean out his pen, and feed and walk him to get him ready for the show, and it’s very fun but you also have to work very hard, and it teaches you a lot of lessons about responsibility and how to take care of your animal,” said Kvamme.

For those interested in 4-H and to find out more on a wide range of projects offered you can visit 4-H.org or your local Ohio State University Extension office.