Interested in animals? Learn about animal care, selection and more in Hamilton County 4-H.
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 are required to 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. In the Fall, youth can participate in poultry judging and will bring 3 of their best hens to the Hamilton County Fair to participate in a poultry show and a Chick Chain Auction, with sale of the birds split between 4-H youth and 4-H program. For more information, read the 2024 Chick Chain registration form and contact the Extension Office (423-209-8560)
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:
Tennessee 4-H Vet Science Club, Chattanooga Chapter
Hamilton County students in grades 4th-12th can participate in the Tennessee 4-H Vet Science Club, Chattanooga Chapter. This club meets during the school year and is now on summer hiatus. For more information, call the Extension Office at 423-209-8560.
Find links to watch the recordings of previous meetings at the Virtual Vet Science page at the Tennessee 4-H state website: https://4h.tennessee.edu/virtual-vet-science/
Wildlife:
Wildlife Judging/Evaluation (4th-12th grade) – April and May
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 4-H Wildlife Judging Contest. The Regional Contest is May 10, 2024 at the UT Arboretum in Oak Ridge, and all Hamilton County 4-H members can participate – contact Extension Agent Maria Sabin to register for the contest. There is no cost to compete in the May 10 contest.