Purdue University, Indiana Counties and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating An Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution
Celebrate Agriculture! Martin County Ag Day
March 19, 2022 8:00 am - 11:00 am EST Martin County 4-H Fairgrounds
All Americans need to understand the value of agriculture in their daily lives. Below are just some of the key reasons why it's important to recognize & celebrate Ag Day each year:
2022 Martin County 4-H Handbook
Check out the handbook online at https://bit.ly/martin4h22handbook
Printed copies are available by contacting the Extension Office.
Martin County 4-H Club Meetings
Dream Team Club – TBA
Horse & Pony Club – TBA
Jolly Jug Rox Club
Location: Hindostan Church Fellowship Hall
Time: 6:00 pm
Dates:
March: Monday 7, Tuesday 29
April: Monday 11, Monday 25
May: Tuesday 10, Wednesday 25
June: Monday 13, Monday 27
July: Tuesday 5
Jolly Juniors Club – TBA
Shooting Sports Club- TBA
Tractor Club – TBA
Volunteer with 4-H Robotics Club?
The Robotics 4-H Club is in search of new volunteer leaders. Express interest by talking with Dena Held and help make positive 4-H experiences with and for youth!
Martin County 2022 Program Involvement and Empowerment
A Leadership Development Series Exploring the Essentials Elements of Positive Youth Development & Overview of the 2022 4-H Club Member Project Guidelines
March 8, 10, 15 6:00 pm EST
Attend one or all sessions.
Community Learning Center, 2666 US Hwy 50, Loogootee, IN
Submit topics of choice or questions ahead of time to heldd@purdue.edu
Open at all! Geared for high school youth, adult leaders, parents, and mentors.
Virtual 4-H Volunteer Café Series 2.0 Program
Learn how to creative a positive environment and inclusive experience in all 4-H mission areas.
All sessions 6:30 – 7:30 pm EST
March 8 – Civic Engagement
April 19 – “Clubs can be fun”
Register for the free, virtual sessions at https://bit.ly/VolCafe2021 Please call 812-295-2412 if you need
any assistance in gaining access the sessions.
Communication and Expressive Arts 2022 Opportunities
A benefactor wants you to do 1, 2, 3 and/or 4 of the following things to let YOU… Martin County youth… have FUN! Priority deadline to express interest is March 22, 2022.
1. State 4-H Band Workshop, June 18-20, 2022 at Purdue University Campus
Open to all high school age youth. Participants perform to over 500 people. (Youth pays $50 deposit to Martin County CES Ed Fund and once attends Band Workshop, will be reimbursed the $50) Full registration fee & 4-H enrollment will be paid by the benefactor! If other expenses are needed to be paid for you to attend, please discuss with Dena Held. Deadline to apply April 1, 2022.
https://www.extension.purdue.edu/4-H/get-involved/state-programs/band.html
2. State 4-H Chorus Workshop, June 18-21, 2022 at Purdue University Campus
Open to all high school age youth. Participants perform to over 500 people. (Youth pays $50 deposit to Martin County CES Ed Fund and once attends Chorus Workshop, will be reimbursed the $50) Full registration fee & 4-H enrollment will be paid by the benefactor! If other expenses are needed to be paid for you to attend, please discuss with Dena Held. Deadline to apply April 1, 2022.
https://www.extension.purdue.edu/4-H/get-involved/state-programs/chorus.html
For youth 3-12 grades $20 enrollment fee will be paid & you perform April 21 at the Martin County Performing Arts contest.
https://extension.purdue.edu/4-H/projects/4-h-project-performing-arts.html
For youth 3-12 grades Participate in Martin County 4-H Club activities and exhibit a project (or projects) under the Communication and Expressive Arts. $20 enrollment fee will be paid & you may attend club meetings, participate in activities, and exhibit at the Martin County 4-H Fair. https://extension.purdue.edu/4-H/projects/
BE a Camp Counselor! Deadline to Apply EXTENDED to March 4th - ALL INDIANA YOUTH MY APPLY
All Indiana youth freshman to senior grades, are invited to apply to be a camp counselor at the Daviess, Dubois, Martin, Perry, & Pike 4-H Camp! Camp is June 13, 14 & 15, 2022 at Santa Claus Campground, Santa Claus, Indiana!
Being a camp counselor provides a variety of benefits, including: It is FUN!
Invaluable skill-building
New friends
Great skill building for scholarships, employment & college!
A resume builder
A break from the normal
Mentor younger youth
Surrounding yourself with positivity
No prior camp or camp counselor experience required
No out of pocket camp counselor financial cost: your expenses are paid for by sponsors and/or other ways on your behalf.
More Fun!
Beautiful camp facilities
Steps to be a camp counselor:
2022 4-H Camp for Campers! SAVE THE DATE!
Youth in grades 3, 4, 5, & 6 are encouraged to hold the following dates for 2022 4-H Camp! June 13, 14 & 15, 2022.
Indiana 4-H & Martin County 4-H Animal Details & Forms
Everyone interested may access 4-H animal details at https://extension.purdue.edu/4-H/projects/animal-identification.html to learn more and access forms for the 4-H year. The Purdue Extension Martin County Office is happy to help with access points and can print forms upon your request.
4-H Livestock Identification Day
Thursday, April 28th
6 pm – 7:30 pm
Location: Martin County 4-H Fairgrounds
Livestock tagging for all livestock species and types of animals needing tagged MUST report to the 4-H Fairgrounds between 6 pm – 7:30 pm for tagging. This includes: Beef and Dairy Cattle, Goats & Sheep. (exceptions as found at: https://extension.purdue.edu/4-H/projects/animal-identification.html )
Swine: Tags will be distributed for you to apply at home for biosecurity reasons. You must complete a swine tag request form with animal information prior to tag distribution. Tags issued are for 2022 exhibition year. Any arrangements for other accommodations must be completed PRIOR to April 28th as new identification tags will NOT be distributed after April 28th for those animals requiring tagging.
The tagging deadline is April 28, 2022.
Rabbit Tattooing & Poultry Testing
Friday, May 13th
6 pm – 7:30 pm
**Tentative due to potential biosecurity precautions**
Location: Martin County 4-H Fairgrounds
Animal ID on 4honline Deadline May 16th
4-H members must identify all Beef and Dairy Cattle, Goats, Horses, Llamas, Sheep and Swine in the 4-H Online system by May 15th (May 16 for 2022 only) to be eligible for exhibition at the Martin County 4-H Fair and/or The Indiana State Fair 4-H Animal Shows.
DNA Collection for Indiana State Fair Exhibition Deadline May 16th
Beef and Dairy Cattle, Meat Goats, Sheep and Swine must submit DNA hair samples by May 15th (May 16 for 2022 only) to the Extension Office to be eligible for Indiana State Fair 4-H Animal Shows.
Verification of Livestock Breed Status Deadline July 1st
Livestock who are purebred or have other registration papers with exhibitors who wish to show in those respective classes need to provide the properly registered papers by July 1, 2022 to the Extension Office.
Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA) Martin County Program Deadline for Livestock Exhibitors July 1st
Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA) is a national multi-species quality assurance program for youth ages 8 to 21 with a focus on three core pillars: food safety, animal well-being, and character development. All youth who exhibit livestock are required to be certified annually. Certification can be obtained at an in-person class or via the online modules.
In Person Martin County Opportunities:
When: Monday, April 25, 2022 or Thursday, May 5, 2022 at 4 PM.
Where: Martin County 4-H Fairgrounds / Community Learning Center, 2666 US Hwy 50, Loogootee.
Details: Space is limited and registration is required. If there are no registrants 48 hours before classes, the class will be cancelled. For more info contact Dena Held heldd@purdue.edu
How to register: Register at https://yqcaprogram.org and log in using your 4HOnline email and password.
All youth in Indiana exhibiting an animal (Swine, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Sheep, Goats, Rabbits, and Poultry) at a county or state fair must have completed a Quality Assurance Certification, by July 1, 2021 for Martin County exhibitors.
Equine Wednesday Webinars
March 9 – Health and Vaccinations, Dr. Amanda Farr
April 20 – Trailer Safety, Dr. Robin Ridgeway
All sessions begin at 7:00 pm EST. Sessions are free and available through Zoom. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/3vxtxn88
ISPA NPIP BLOOD TESTING SCHOOL
The ISPA is pleased to announce that we are hosting two in person classes this year to certify a new group of Indiana certified Blood Testers! The dates for the two classes are as follows:
Thursday, April 7, 2022, 4:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at SIPAC (Dubois, IN)
Saturday, April 23, 2022, 8:30 a.m. – Noon at Purdue University (Creighton Hall)
The Registration Fee is $50 for the class, and we will offer an optional Blood Testing Kit (Bleeder and Loop, Plastic Test Plate and laminated How-To document) for $25.
The school teaches participants how to recognize Pullorum-Typhoid through the plate test screening process. Participants will have the opportunity to practice the plate test, through a simulated lab that demonstrates a negative, weak positive and positive test result. In addition, the course will provide an introduction to biosecurity, ways to prevent poultry disease, and best practices poultry care for backyard enthusiasts. In order to complete the course, participants will take a short open book multiple-choice test, where the questions are all pulled from material covered during the course. Instructors for the course include Purdue University Avian Pathology Professors, staff and residents, Board of Animal Health Veterinarians, and ISPA staff. All participants will receive a binder of materials, NPIP Blood Tester ID Card, a pad of VS Form 9-2 (Flock Selecting and Testing Reports), and other items.
Registration to attend either of these classes is now open on our website at https://www.inpoultry.com/classroombts
BLOOD TESTER RECERTIFICATION
Blood Tester certification is good for three years, those seeking to renew their Blood Tester Recertification can do so online by completing a registration form and taking the recertification exam online. Blood Tester Recertification costs $25. Those that complete the process will receive a new Blood Tester ID Card and flash drive with poultry information. Website for Blood Tester Recertification: https://www.inpoultry.com/bloodtesterrecertification
Indiana State Poultry Association may be reached at:
Indiana State Poultry Association
Purdue University, ANSC
270 South Russell Street
West Lafayette, IN 47907
BLOOD TESTING SCHOOL QUESTIONS: 765-496-3594
OFFICE PHONE: 765-494-8517
EMAIL: ispa@purdue.edu
WEBSITE: www.INpoultry.com
Poultry Workshop
There will be a free 4-H Poultry Workshop at the Vanderburgh 4-H Center Banquet Hall on Saturday March 12th, 9am-11am CST Everyone is welcome. Learn about breeds for home needs and showing, proper care and nutrition, showmanship and what is needed to show at the fair. The workshop will be given by Matt McCammon – Vanderburgh County Poultry Judge, Master Exhibitor and Master Breeder
Martin County Purdue Extension Giving Link
Purdue Extension works with residents to build vibrant communities, strong families and profitable businesses by providing programming to residents in the following four areas:
If you would like to help make a difference and further programming in Martin County, you may now make donations online to Purdue Extension Martin County at: https://bit.ly/donationextensionmartincounty
ServSafe Manager Class and Certification Exam
The ServSafe Class and Certification Exam fulfills Indiana requirements to become a “Certified Food Protection Manager” (formerly called Certified Food Handlers). Exams are available in a variety of languages and classes are offered in English and Spanish in our area.
The class and proctored examinations are offered at a variety of dates and locations. Training with Exam or Exam Only options for those who self-study are available. For a list of upcoming class dates visit: www.purdue.edu/servsafe/workshops
THE FAMILY TABLE PURDUE EXTENSION PROGRAM IN MARTIN COUNTY MAY 2022
Save the date for a great opportunity for the first 15 adults registered. (Kids may attend with the registered adult.) The Family Table is a Purdue Extension Health & Human Science Program where healthy food preparation and nutrition is taught and demonstrated. Weekly meal kits are provided for cooking skill practices at home! St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Parish Center- Lower Level, 409 E Church Street, Loogootee
Dates:
Wednesday, May 11th at 5:30 pm
Wednesday, May 18th at 5:30 pm
Wednesday, May 25th at 5:30 pm
Small Animal Discovery Day
When: April 9, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Where: Noble County Fairgrounds
Test your knowledge with our interactive competition. Learn something new with our special guest speakers.
Registration Deadline: April 1, 2022 at: https://bit.ly/smallanimalday
Cost: $5, lunch included.
Lawrence County Ag Outlook 2022
When: Friday, March 4, 2022 11:30 am
Where: 1955 State Road 37, Mitchell, IN
RSVP by March 3 to Matt, 812-849-2464
Join us for lunch and learn about potential tax law changes that could impact farmers, the Outlook for grain and livestock markets for the year ahead plus what could impact trends.
4-H Challenges Youth To Submit Their Best Shot
This latest photography challenge, sponsored by Minnesota 4-H, is open to youth across the Midwest. Youth are encouraged to use their photography skills and creativity to capture their best shot.
Youth as young as kindergarten are welcome to join the challenge. This is a great first experience for people who are new to 4-H. Learn more and register for the “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” photo contest on the Minnesota 4-H photography webpage: "Hit me with your best shot" 4-H photo contest | UMN Extension
“Photography is about capturing a moment in time,” said Julia Nilles, a 4-H’er from Lincoln County, Minn. and past challenge participant. “I love that 4-H photo challenges give me a reason to go out and take pictures of things. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect, so by having a reason to go take more photos, I can improve my photography skills.”
Once registered for the challenge, youth can experiment with photography elements to create stunning photographs. On-demand lessons are available on the Minnesota 4-H photography project page, including how angles, light and composition to enhance your photography.
Youth may submit their favorite photo (with no or minimal editing) with up to three sentences of why it’s special to them. Deadline to submit an image is 11:59 p.m. on March 31, 2022. Volunteer 4-H photography judges will review all submissions, provide feedback and select the top images for special awards. All submissions will be entered into a prize drawing. Submitted images will be featured in a digital slideshow shared with participants and posted on Minnesota 4-H’s Facebook and YouTube channels.
4-H photography is a youth development offering of the University of Minnesota Extension. Learn more at: https://z.umn.edu/4h-photography.
For more news from U of M Extension, visit www.extension.umn.edu/news or contact Extension Communications at extnews@umn.edu. University of Minnesota Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer.
What Hobby Poultry Owners Should Know About Preventing Avian Influenza
By: Indiana State Board of Animal Health
INDIANAPOLIS (16 February 2022)—Avian influenza can be devasting to all poultry—even small, hobby flocks. The virus can cause reduced egg production, general illness or even sudden death to chickens, turkeys and other poultry species. With cases cropping up in three states in the last week, hobby flock owners should take steps to keep their flocks safe.
Poultry owners should practice good biosecurity by blocking possible sources of the virus. This includes minimizing foot traffic from visitors into the chicken coops and pasture areas. The avian influenza (AI) virus (and other disease‐causing agents) can be carried in on clothing and shoes. Avoid visiting other flocks and handling other people’s birds.
Anyone entering a chicken coop or pasture area should wear boot covers or shoes dedicated to that space only. Change shoes, boots or clothing after wearing them in public.
Equipment, such as feed buckets, hoses and waterers, can be contaminated. Therefore, equipment should be cleaned and disinfected before use—especially if it has contact with birds from outside the home flock. Vehicles can transport germs on tires, too.
Prevent contact with wild birds. Migratory waterfowl (ducks, geese, etc.) are known to carry AI without becoming ill or dying. Because they shed the virus in their droppings, bodies of water and other spaces where they congregate can pose a higher risk. Keeping poultry confined to a coop or a fenced space can help to reduce possible exposure. Watch for signs of illness in your flock. Birds affected with HPAI may show one or more of the following signs:
At the first signs of any of these, call the USDA Healthy Birds Hotline: 866‐536‐7593. Callers will be routed to a federal or state veterinarian in Indiana for case assessment. Dead birds should be double‐bagged and refrigerated for possible testing.
Essential points to note about the current ongoing avian influenza situation:
Learn more about biosecurity practices and keeping poultry safe online at: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal‐disease‐information/avian/defend‐the‐flock‐ program/defend‐the‐flock‐program
SITUATION UPDATES & NOTIFICATIONS
The Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH has established a webpage to provide situation updates, as needed, regarding avian influenza: www.in.gov/boah/species‐information/avianbirds/highly‐pathogenic‐avian‐ influenza/. A link on that page will allow anyone to sign up to receive email and/or text notices when updates are posted. Please subscribe and/or encourage others to do so. The Board of Animal Health may be found online at: www.in.gov/boah; on social media at: www.facebook.com\INBOAH and Twitter at: @INBOAH