There are many opportunities for 4-H members who are interested in animal and other projects who may not have the ability to actually own that animal. Therefore, the 4-H judging teams is a perfect opportunity for youth to still get their fill of that project area! Listed below are some of the many judging teams available to 4-H members. For more information, please call the UT/TSU Extension Office at 423-775-7807 or visit the state 4-H Judging Team website.
Horse Judging
Horse judging helps youth develop skills in evaluating horses for conformation, soundness and performance. Participants learn to recognize the relationship between form and function, identify unsoundnesses and blemishes and distinguish desirable traits in both horses and riders. Contestants also present oral reasons to explain their placings and demonstrate their understanding of equine evaluation and communication. For more information, please visit the Horse Judging website.
Forestry Judging
The Tennessee 4-H Forestry Judging contest gives youth hands-on experience in forestry and forest management. Participants learn to identify native Tennessee trees by their twigs, fruit and wood, as well as recognize common forest insects and diseases. They also practice measuring trees, using a compass, and applying basic geometry to real-world forest settings. This contest encourages curiosity about Tennessee’s natural resources and helps youth understand the important role forests play in daily life. For more information, visit the Forestry Judging page on the TN 4-H Youth Development website.
Consumer Decision Making
The Tennessee 4-H Consumer Decision Making contest helps youth build practical skills for making smart, fact-based choices in everyday life. Through hands-on competition, participants learn to evaluate products, compare quality and make informed decisions that best meet specific needs or situations. The contest also strengthens reasoning, communication and teamwork skills as members present oral reasons to explain their choices – helping them think critically and make confident decisions in real-world settings. For more information, please visit the Consumer Decision Making website.
Life Skills Judging
The Life Skills Judging contest is held at the TVA&I Fair in Knoxville. During the Life Skills Judging contest, 4-Hers will apply skills and knowledge in Family and Consumer Sciences subject matter by visiting a series of activity centers and completing knowledge, skill or application activities at each center. The centers consist of both competitive (individual) and scored cooperative (team) activities. For more information, please call the Extension office at 775-7807.