Frequently Asked Questions

Questions are arranged alphabetically by category, then in order of importance. Please contact us if your question does not appear in this list.

    4-H

  • Question: How do I enroll my child in 4-H?
  • Answer:

    The best way to enroll your child is to come into the Extension Office. That way you can pay dues, pick projects, buy your project workbooks, and get all of the other materials you may need.  We will also connect you with a club that will work with your schedule and project selections.  If you have already contacted a club leader, they may also be able to give you enrollment forms and catalogs.

  • Question: How many clubs are in the Flathead County? Are there any in my area?
  • Answer:

    We currently have 23 active 4-H clubs in Flathead County.  Please call the Extension Office and we will provide you with contact information for the club options in your neighborhood or project area. 

  • Question: How old does a child have to be to join 4-H?
  • Answer:

    The 4-H year runs from October through September each year.  To be a member, a child must be 8 years old by October 1st of the current 4-H year.  To be a Clover Bud, members must be 5 years old by October 1st of the current 4-H year.

  • Question: What is a Clover Bud?
  • Answer:

    Clover Bud members are aged 5 to 7 years old.  Their program is designed to be educational and non-competitive in nature.  Clover Buds are not able to participate in 4-H animal related programs.  Focuses include arts and crafts, food and nutrition, and many other activities.

  • Question: How much does it cost to join 4-H?
  • Answer:

    4-H member dues are $10.00 per 4-H year.  For members choosing to particpate in a horse project, an additional fee of $5.00 is accessed.  An addtional fee of $5.00 is also accessed if a member chooses to participate in a market livestock project.  Clover Bud and Leader dues are $5.00 a year.  Project manuals range in price form $3.00-$8.00 and last up to three program years.

  • Question: Do you have to own an animal to be in 4-H?
  • Answer:

    Absolutely not!  There is a huge number of non-animal related projects that 4-H offers to its members.  These projects include photography, small engine repair, electricity, cooking, cowboy poetry, sport fishing, wildlife and entomology among many others.  4-H also has projects for small animals including gerbisl, hamsters, rats, cats and dogs.  A catalog of all 4-H projects can be obtained by contacting our office.

  • Question: Can I, as a parent, enroll as a 4-H Leader?
  • Answer:

    We encourage parents to take an active part in 4-H and it's many activities.  You can be a leader at the club or the county-wide level.  Parents find 4-H to be a great volunteer activity and a rewarding way to spend time with their children.

  • Question: Do I have to have a child in 4-H to be a Leader?
  • Answer:

    We also encourage members of our community to take part in 4-H and share their knowledge and expertise with our members.  You can be a leader a tthe club or county-wide level.  Leaders must be 21 years old to be a 4-H Leader.

  • Question: Is participation in the Northwest Montana Fair required?
  • Answer:

    Participation at the Northwest Montana Fair is optional to all 4-H members and Clover Buds.  It's a great way to showcase 4-H to the public and a whole lot of fun!

    Extension General Information

  • Question: Where is the Extension Office located?
  • Answer:

    We are located next to the Old Courthouse Building, on the island, in the middle of South Main Street.  We are housed in a cream colored building on the east side of the Old Court House.

  • Question: What are your hours of operation?
  • Answer:

    We are open 8:00am-5:00pm, Monday through Friday.  Our staff travels in and out of the office.  Appointments may occasionally require the office to be closed during a lunch hour.