4-H in Bannock County
4-H
In 4-H, we are developing citizenship, leadership, responsibility and life skills of youth through experiential learning and a positive youth development approach, with a focus on agriculture, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), civic engagement and healthy living.
Youth ages 5-18 in Bannock County can become a member of a 4-H club, attend the Alpine 4-H camp or a project camp, participate in an afterschool program and grow as leaders through district and statewide events and opportunities. Our programs are designed to spark curiosity and build lifelong skills — whether you’re new to 4-H or a returning member, there’s always something new to explore.
To learn more about 4-H in Idaho, visit the UI Extension 4-H Youth Development website.
What is 4-H?
4-H is America’s largest youth development organization, with over 6.5 million members nationwide — and thousands here in Idaho. In 4-H, children and teenagers build confidence and gain lifelong skills. Through hands-on learning in clubs, camps and community programs, Idaho youth explore their passions, connect with others and make a difference — in a safe, welcoming environment.
Clubs and projects
4-H empowers young people with hands-on learning experiences in a variety of project areas to help them grow and thrive. From rabbits to robots, food science to fashion design, and archery to photography, there’s a 4-H activity for everyone. Clubs also participate in community service projects. Contact our office to find a club near you and start making friends, learning new skills and becoming a better you.
Projects
As part of a 4-H club, youth enroll in at least one project each year. As members gain experience, the depth of a project may increase, or additional projects may be selected. Projects are overseen by adult mentors who guide members in gaining knowledge and skills. Some project groups meet weekly, while others may meet once or twice a month. Completed projects are then showcased at local county fairs.
Agriculture projects
In Bannock County, many youth participate in horse, livestock or small animal projects to learn how to properly care for their animals and learn how to present them in public settings. 4-H members must make their own arrangements to keep and care for animals – animals are not provided by 4-H. With each project, youth can learn up-to-date industry standards of breeding, feeding and management practices. Participants also develop public speaking skills, decision making skills, integrity, sportsmanship and leadership.
STEM projects
4-H offers many projects related to science, technology, engineering and math, including robotics, drones, coding, financial literacy and 3-D printing.
Healthy living projects
Idaho’s 4-H healthy living projects help youth lead lives that balance physical, mental and emotional health. Projects related to healthy living include cooking, sewing, crafting, shooting sports, photography, food science and more.
Civic engagement and leadership projects
4-H civic engagement and leadership projects empower young people to be well-informed citizens who are actively engaged in their communities and the world. Youth have the opportunity to participate in Know Your Government, State Teen Association Convention and 4-H LEADS, among other opportunities.
Explore the full list of 4-H projects and contact our office to see which are offered in Bannock County.
Camps
There is more to 4-H than animals. We offer project day camps, afterschool programming, early out school project camps and many overnight trips. Contact our office at bannock@uidaho.edu or 208-236-7310 to learn more about our specific camp offerings.
The Alpine 4-H Camp has served the youth of southeast Idaho for over sixty years, giving them the experience of going to camp and enjoying the beauty of the area. If you are interested in attending a 4-H camp or the 4-H horse camp, please contact our office.
How to join 4-H
- Contact the UI Extension, Bannock County office at bannock@uidaho.edu or 208-236-7310 to identify what clubs, projects or programs you are interested in.
- Our office will contact our club leaders to help place you in a 4-H club. If a club is already filled or if you don’t see projects you’re interested in already offered in Bannock County, we can help you start a new 4-H club.
- After receiving a confirmation of club placement, enroll for your selected club and project through our official membership platform, ZSuite.
- Pay enrollment fees to the UI Extension, Bannock County office, 10560 N Fairgrounds Rd., Bldg A, Pocatello, ID 83202.
- Enrollment fees are $20 for horse projects and $18 for all other projects.
View the 4-H Family Handbook for more information on getting started with 4-H in Idaho.
Cloverbuds is an educational program designed to introduce children ages 5-7 to a variety of 4-H project areas in a fun, non-competitive way. Cloverbuds are only allowed to show lap animals and are not able to participate in large animal, ATV or shooting sports projects. Fair exhibits by Cloverbuds are noncompetitive and are optional. Learn more about the Cloverbud program in Idaho.
Other ways to be involved
Volunteers
4-H volunteers coordinate clubs, lead 4-H projects and help to plan and conduct local, regional, state and national 4-H events. Our volunteers are vital to the success of our programs. All 4-H volunteers are certified by UI Extension. Contact us at bannock@uidaho.edu or 208-236-7310 to request an application.
Below are various documents and forms that are specific to Bannock County. For statewide forms, please visit the main UI Extension 4-H Youth Development website.