Poultry: 4-H Chick Chain
Youth in grades 4th through 12th who are enrolled in 4-H in Hamilton County can participate in 4-H Chick Chain (enroll in 4-H online). The 4-H Chick Chain program is offered each year, with registration in January and February.
Youth and parents/guardians participate in a free orientation program in March. 4-H Chick Chain members purchase 12 baby chicks through 4-H and pick them up in the spring (Note that city of Chattanooga residents receive 8 chicks, to comply with city code). In the Fall, youth can participate in poultry judging and will bring 3 of their best hens to the Hamilton County Fair in November to participate in a poultry show and a Chick Chain Auction. For more information, contact the Extension Office (423-209-8560) or download the 2026 4-H Chick Chain Information and Registration form.
Horse: The Mane Attraction 4-H Horse Club
Be a part of the 4-H horse project in Hamilton County. 4-H Horse Club members may also participate in the Hippology/Horse Bowl, which is a fun team-oriented contest that tests your knowledge of horses. For youth in grades 4th-12th. Ownership of a horse is not required, only a love of horses!
Parents are welcome to accompany youth to meetings, which are held on the 1st Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Saddle Pals Riding Club in Soddy Daisy. The focus of 4-H Horse Club meetings is learning about horses, not horseback riding. For more information, contact the Extension Office (423-209-8560).
Veterinary Science: Hamilton County 4-H Veterinary Science Club
Hamilton County students in grades 4th-12th can participate in the Hamilton County 4-H Veterinary Science Club. This club meets once each month during the school year at the Extension Office (6183 Adamson Circle in Chattanooga). Potential new members are welcome at every meeting. Subscribe to the monthly 4-H newsletter for information on the next meeting
Wildlife: Wildlife Judging Contest – May 15, 2026
4th-12th grade students learn about wild animals and their habitats through the 4-H Wildlife Program. Students use the Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) manual to prepare for the Eastern Region 4-H Wildlife Judging Contest, which is held in May.
The 4-H Veterinary Science Club prepares for the Wildlife Judging Contest each year, and attending Vet Science Club meetings is a great way to get ready for this competition!
For more information on how to participate in the 4-H Wildlife Judging Contest, subscribe to the monthly 4-H email newsletter or call the Extension Office (423) 209-8560.