Poulty is back at the Hubbard County Fair after a one year absence due to the statewide Avian Flu outbreak last year. Chickens in cages and the poultry barn full again helped increase the overall number of entries to this year’s county fair, and Hubbard County 4-H coordinator Mari Jo Lohmeier is pleased to see all the activity around the barns.
There are 1,800 total registered entries at this year’s fair which includes all general projects from aerospace to quilting to animals. Total entrants is up from 1,100 last year and 700 four years ago when Lohmeier took over as coordinator.
"We are more than double from four years ago," she said. "It’s exciting because our number of 4-H members has more than doubled."
The increase in entrants the last few years is most noticeable in poultry and rabbits because, as Lohmeier explained, these are animal projects are all inclusive and most kids can have without needing a lot of space compared to some of the larger livestock.
The poultry barn is full with 21 boys and girls participating with entries. Rabbit entries increased from 40 last year to 80 this year.
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"It’s exciting to see so many kids involved and watch them get the experience," Lohmeier said. She said with more 4-H kids involved and increased number of entries there is more competition for ribbons at the shows. Some entrants who are maybe used to bringing home top prizes could go home a little disappointed, based on the results of judging. But, she explained, that doesn’t take away from all the hard work the kids are putting in raising their animals.
"It’s a really good life lesson," Lohmeier said. "Even though you work really hard sometimes you don’t win, and that’s the way it goes in life too."
Lohmeier was busy Thursday running from barn to barn, coordinating volunteers, making sure the shows ran smoothly, and dealing with the rain.
"Everything is going great," she commented. "We had lots of compliments with our rabbit and poultry judges. They do a great job of educating and talking to the kids about how to work with their animals. It’s really great for our kids to learn while they are here."
Lohmeier credits the 4H families and volunteers who help make the county fair a success each year.
"We’re very pleased. It’s going well because we have so many great families here in Hubbard County."
Lohmeier said she handed out volunteer buttons on Wednesday to help set up displays and she quickly ran out after 25.
"I’m so lucky. There’s no way I could do this myself," she said. "Not every county is like this. I’m always amazed how dedicated these families are here."
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She continued by saying, "The fair is a lot of work. It’s rewarding to see all the kids work together. And to see the light bulb moments when they learn from each other, and help each other with their animals."
