Extension in Clay County

U of M Extension - Clay County
[email protected]                                                                                               

715 11 St N, Ste 107B                                                                                                    
Moorhead, MN 56560

Phone: 218-299-5020

Office hours

Monday thru Friday | 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Jennifer Erdahl, Principal Office & Administrative Specialist | Field Operations
[email protected] or 218-299-7343

Rosie Gonzalez, Extension Educator | Family, Health and Wellbeing
[email protected] or 218-299-7546

Mindy Grant, Extension Educator | 4-H Youth Development
[email protected] or 218-299-7344

Jillian Patrie, Extension Educator | Horticulture
[email protected] or 218-299-7338

Monique Stelzer, Extension Educator |  4-H Youth Development
[email protected] or 218-299-7346

View all staff in Clay County

Extension brings Minnesotans together to build a better future through University science-based knowledge, expertise and training. Learn more about Extension by visiting our about page and by browsing this website. 

4-H by the numbers

• Clay County 4-H served 470 youth and 101 adult volunteers in 2023.
• Those youth attended more than 23 different programs, and are from 5 local clubs.
• Many of our clubs and programs meet multiple times throughout the year.
• This year 87% of youth learned about people who are different than them.
• Clay County welcomed 40 brand new enrolled youth members through afterschool programs and group projects in 4-H clubs.

Youth belong and matter in Clay County 4-H

4-H Community clubs and Afterschool programs provide a place for youth to belong. 4-H youth thrive when they explore their personal sparks. Sparks create actions that benefit young people and communities. That community could be as small as their family or circle of friends, or as broad as their school, town, or county. In 4-H, we want to support youth in becoming increasingly connected. To feel a deepening sense of commitment, pride, and willingness to contribute. Community service and volunteerism are some of the top five sparks among young people nationwide, and Clay County 4-H youth are no different! Local clubs take on service projects each year putting their hands to larger service in many ways countywide. One local club planted a community garden and donated 130 pounds of vegetables to the Barnesville Area Food Pantry. Community projects range in skills and expertise but one thing is for sure Clay County youth are committed and proud to contribute where they can! 

Here is what a few families have had to say about Clay County 4-H:

• "I have been in three 4-H's!"- 3rd grade student
• "Making the garden felt good because kids younger than me get to plant and harvest food like other schools." - Community club youth member
• "He is very excited about what he is learning."- Parent of an afterschool youth

Give to Clay County 4-H

Gifts support 4-H youth development in Clay County, and local programming coordinated by the Clay County 4-H Federation. 

Give today

Welcome!

We are so excited that you are considering being a part of Minnesota 4-H! 4-H is America's largest youth development organization--empowering over six million young people with skills that last a lifetime. In 4-H we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us! 

We hope that you and your family will enjoy exploring all that 4-H has to offer!                                                      

Interested in joining Clay County 4-H? Learn more here!

We are so happy that you are considering 4-H as an option for your family!

4-H welcomes ALL youth in grades K through 13. Being a part of the nation's largest youth development program will offer hands-on learning experiences in a variety of areas to help them gain life and leadership skills to last a lifetime.

Are you thinking about which club would be a good fit, here are some tips for your consideration:

• Choose a club whose meeting time fits with your schedule!
• Already have a friend in 4-H? Join their club!
• Clay County 4-H has some project-based club options. So if LEGO robotics or shooting sports and wildlife is your child's thing, one of these clubs might be a good option to consider.

There are several ways to join or re-enroll in 4-H. 

• Join 4-H for the first time or re-enroll
• Enroll as an independent member
• Get in touch with the Clay County Extension Office by calling 218-299-5020 or by contacting an Extension Educator:
  • Mindy Grant, Extension Educator | 4-H Youth Development
  • Monique Stelzer, Extension Educator |  4-H Youth Development
• Check out our Clay County Extension Facebook page
• Stop by our office to chat, we're here between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., we would be happy to speak with you

Make a difference as a volunteer

As a 4-H volunteer, you are a valued partner of the University of Minnesota Extension! You complete the important role of helping our youth "learn by doing." You create life-changing experiences, share your expertise and skills, and work alongside 4-H youth members to grow together and build a strong Minnesota! We are excited to have you join us as we empower our young people to reach their full potential and "make the best better!"

Why volunteer with 4-H?

• You can support youth in 4-H.
• You can help others.
• You can make a difference.

4-H is a unique organization where youth can learn how to solve problems, make decisions, and communicate ideas. All learning is hands-on and backed by university research. You can make a BIG impact in the lives of young people all while passing on your knowledge to the next generation!

Ways to help

There are many ways to volunteer and serve with the members of Wilkin County 4-H. Whether you have a busy schedule or a ton of spare time, there is a volunteer role for you!

• Lead a Club: Work alongside youth to provide support to your 4-H Club.
• Teach a Skill: Share your strengths with youth at a one-time workshop or clinic series.
• Join a Committee: Help shape youth in Wilkin County 4-H by serving on a local committee.
• Judge Projects: Provide personal and detailed feedback to youth on the projects they bring to the Wilkin County Fair.
• Help with Events: Support 4-H'ers as they plan and execute activities and events.
• Guide our Leaders: Serve as a mentor to our 4-H youth members who take part in our leadership programs.

Types of Volunteers

Screened volunteer

A screened Minnesota 4-H Volunteer is an adult who will be one of two required adults to provide supervision to youth at the 4-H program; make decisions on behalf of the 4-H program, handle funds as part of 4-H events, and will have access to private data of 4-H members or other volunteers. Screened volunteers have completed the volunteer screening process, been accepted, and enrolled as Minnesota 4-H volunteers.

Adult helper

An adult helper is someone who gives their time and/or expertise to 4-H education programs, activities, or outings in a manner that does not require status as a screened Minnesota 4-H Volunteer. Adult helpers must be under the direct supervision of two or more screened Minnesota 4-H Volunteers or Extension Department of Youth Development employees.

Examples of Roles

• Guest speaker/presenter
• Event Worker (e.g horse show helpers, livestock show announcer, club activity helper)
• Snack servers at 4-H Club meetings or events
• Adults are asked to contribute on a one-time basis or asked occasionally to supervise or assist with a program/activity while working under the direction of two or more screened Minnesota 4-H Volunteers and/or staff.

Volunteer Resources

Volunteering with Minnesota 4-H can be a very rewarding experience. To learn more about becoming a Minnesota 4-H Volunteer, visit the volunteer website. 

• Volunteer Application
• Volunteer Impact Study
• Judging at the County Fair
• 4-H Volunteer Resource Center

Explore your opportunities in Clay County 4-H

4-H Youth Development is a hands-on learning program for youth. Offering online, small group, and independent learning experiences for youth in grades K through 13. In 4-H youth can choose a topic they find interesting and caring adults will support their learning and leadership. From agronomy to space exploration and creative arts to outdoor adventures, 4-H has learning experiences for our young people.

There are many ways to participate in 4-H!

Clay County 4-H Clubs

Community Clubs

• Barn Buddies
• Blue Eagle Clovers
• Clay County Coyotes
• Creative Clovers
• Glyndon Fearless 4-Her's
• Humbolt
• Morken Lucky Leaf
• Oakmound
• Silver Lake
• Stable Mates

Project Clubs

• Barnesville LEGO League
• Shooting Sports/Wildlife

Contact the club and find out when & where they meet: Clay County 4-H Club Information. Looking for more information, please get in touch with the Clay County Extension Office at 218-299-5020 or [email protected].

Already enrolled in Clay County 4-H? We are happy to have you!

We realize that being a 4-H'er is important to young people, and it comes with TONS of information. Keep yourself organized and on track for a successful and fun-filled year of activities, gatherings & friendships by downloading the Minnesota 4-H app. Clay County 4-H is happy to provide information at your fingertips!

The Minnesota 4-H app is active year-round for your convenience and contains many resources that are vital to participating in Clay County 4-H! The app is loaded with various information and will keep you up to date with our local county program!

Download the Minnesota 4-H App

Downloading the app is easy, go into your app store, search for Minnesota 4-H, and download the app. Once you have the app downloaded, choose Wilkin County and you will be connected with all the current information, guides, programs, events, schedules, social media, and more!

• Apple users: App Store
• Droid users: Google Play 

Here are some other helpful ways to keep up to date 

• Follow us on Social Media
  Facebook
• Add our Google Member Calendar to your personal calendar
  Clay County 4-H Member Calendar

We are so excited that you are a part of the Clay County Fair

The Clay County Fair is scheduled for July 11-14, 2024.

The Clay County Fair is coming! Now is the time to start thinking about what projects your child plans to explore. Check out the fair resources to find the rules & regulations for any exhibits your child will bring to the fair, how to register for the fair, and some FAQ's.

2024 Clay County 4-H Premium Books

• County Fair Book
• 2024 Clay County 4-H Fair Schedule

Fair 4-H Registration in FairEntry

Are you ready to register your exhibits? Exhibit registration opens June 1. All exhibits must be pre-registered by June 15 to be eligible for champion awards and state trips. Late registrations will be accepted in the Extension Office from June 16 to July 11. Late registrations are NOT ELIGIBLE for champion awards or state trips. Read our deadline, consequences, and exemptions form to fully understand eligibility and rules related to late animal ID and exhibit registration rules. 

Use these hyperlinks to pre-register your exhibits

• 4HOnline
• FairEntry--Clay County
• FairEntry instructions for families

Volunteering with 4-H during the fair

In order for the county fair to happen for our youth--we need your help! During the county fair 4-H hosts multiple showcases and the food stand fundraiser for the county-wide 4-H program. We need all hands on deck--this means, independent members, club members, volunteers, parents, and friends of 4-H.  Clay County 4-H is looking for volunteers before, after, and during the fair. Help us out by signing up for a shift in the food stand, on set-up night, during tear-down, or by being a show announcer, ring steward, gate attendant, ribbon attendant, show photographer, and aide with the many other tasks that are not assigned to clubs.

Utilize the sign-ups below to lend a hand:

• https://z.umn.edu/ClayFoodStandSignUp
• https://z.umn.edu/clay4hvolunteer-interview

Helpful links

• Judging tips
• Minnesota State Fair Resources

Questions? 

The Clay County Extension staff is here for you! Please, reach out with any questions that you have by calling 218-299-5020 or by emailing [email protected]. The more you ask, the more you know! Clay County Extension is committed to helping your family have a fun and successful 4-H experience.

Mindy Grant, Extension Educator | 4-H Youth Development
[email protected] or 218-299-7344

Monique Stelzer, Extension Educator | 4-H Youth Development
[email protected] or 218-299-7346

Have questions? We have the answers, the resources, and the referrals.

Visit our online resources:

• Crop Production
• Animals & Livestock
• Managing a Farm

Contact the Farm Information Line for all your agriculture needs:

Farm Information Line: 1-800-232-9077

Collection site for Ag & Business Waste Pesticides                                      

Jillian Patrie, Extension Educator | Horticulture
[email protected] or 218-299-7338

Master Gardener volunteers educate the public about a variety of horticulture subjects using current research-based resources. This educational effort is designed to enhance quality of life and promote good stewardship of the environment.

Master Gardener volunteers are trained by University of Minnesota horticulture educators and complete many hours of volunteer work each year, providing a valuable in-kind contribution to Minnesota.

Learn more about the Master Gardener program here!

Clay County Master Gardeners meet the 2nd Monday of each month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Family Service Center in Moorhead. Contact the Clay County Extension Office at 218-299-5020 to get in touch with one of our local master gardeners.

Gifts support local programming coordinated by Clay County Master Gardener volunteers.

Make a gift on the University of Minnesota giving page.

Find plants, ask an expert, and diagnose a problem through our online gardening resources.

• Become a Master Gardener volunteer
• Master Naturalist volunteers work in your community

Pollinator Resources

• How Can You Help the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee
• Bee Banquet

Contact a Master Gardener for all your gardening questions:

Yard & Garden Line: 612-301-7590

Support Clay County Master Gardeners and beautify your landscape!

All proceeds from this sale will go towards off-setting the costs for educational programs and provide support for local community events that bring horticulture education to Clay County residents.

View and complete the order form here!

Orders must be submitted by: Monday, May 6

Plant handout will be June 5 & 6 from 8:30-4:00 each day. 

Thank you for your support, it is appreciated.

Jillian Patrie, Extension Educator | Horticulture
[email protected] or 218-299-7338

Extension offers a variety of educational programs about nutrition and health in Clay County. These programs are open to families and individuals of all ages who are eligible for benefits through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or who meet Extension’s program income guidelines.

Programs are offered in community settings such as food shelves, schools, community centers and public housing sites. The programs are free to all individuals and families who meet income guidelines, and may be offered in multiple languages, depending on the audience needs and availability of educators.

Use the Real Life, Good Food website to find recipes, cooking tips and physical activity ideas for a healthier life.

Rosie Gonzalez, Extension Educator | Family, Health and Wellbeing
[email protected] or 218-299-7546

Extension engages Minnesotans to strengthen the social, civic, economic and technological capacity of their communities. We help create vibrant communities and enhance skills and knowledge in economics, leadership and civic engagement, and tourism.

Check our community research page for reports on county and community-focused topics relating to local economics, retaining businesses, growing retail markets, developing tourism, and more.

Local programs can be offered in collaboration with local community organizations and government agencies. Current programs include:

• Minnesota Agricultural and Rural Leadership (MARL)
• Red River Valley Emerging Leadership Program (ELP)

Contact an educator in your area for consultation, guidance and conversation about your community.

Minnesota is a great place to explore, understand and conserve the natural landscape. Extension education, volunteer and community science programs encourage people to become stewards of Minnesota’s public and private lands.

Volunteer. Natural resources volunteers track invasive species, detect forest pests and count native bees, among many other activities. You also can study to become a Minnesota Master Naturalist.

Extension's Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP) connect Greater Minnesota communities and University of Minnesota knowledge and resources to support local sustainability projects.

Working in partnership, RSDP supports community-driven projects in four focus areas: agriculture and food systems, clean energy, natural resources and resilient communities. Projects are supported by boards made up of local community members and University faculty and staff.

Learn more about RSDP’s recent work in your county and neighboring communities, and how to submit a project idea.