Codington County 4-H Kicks Off 2026 with Packed Shooting Sports and Farm Show Prep
- Steve Jurrens
- Jan 7
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Codington County 4-H programs are in full swing for the 2026 season, with maximum participation in shooting sports and preparations underway for the upcoming Watertown Winter Farm Show.
During Tuesday’s Codington County Commissioners meeting, 4-H Youth Program Advisor Jodi Loehrer provided a monthly report highlighting a surge in youth engagement, equaling a busy start to the year.
Shooting Sports Reach Capacity
The popular 4-H shooting sports program officially begins this week. Due to high demand, several disciplines are at or near capacity:
· BB Gun: 39 participants (maximum capacity)
· Archery: 53 participants (near capacity with only two or three spots remaining)
· Air Pistol & Air Rifle: 9 participants
Loehrer noted that the season will begin this week with beginner sessions to familiarize new participants with safety and procedures before moving into full-group sessions. Practices will continue on Tuesday and Thursday nights through the end of April, culminating in the state shoot. Loehrer extended a special thank you to the volunteer coaches who make the program possible.
Watertown Winter Farm Show
Preparations are also intensifying for the Watertown Winter Farm Show, scheduled for Feb. 11–14.
The 4-H program plays a vital role in the event, hosting three lunch counters. Loehrer issued a call for community volunteers to assist with the counters, noting that interested individuals can contact the 4-H office to sign up.
In addition to the food service, the Farm Show will feature several competitive opportunities for youth, including:
· Open class contests for quilts and photography.
· Farm safety poster and youth Lego contests.
· A livestock literacy event, which is a requirement for 4-H members planning to show animals.
Northeast South Dakota Calf Show
The week’s activities will conclude on Saturday, Feb. 14, with the Northeast South Dakota Calf Show. The event is open to participants from several surrounding counties, including Brookings, Clark, Codington, Day, Deuel, Grant, Hamlin, Kingsbury, Marshall, Roberts, and Spink. Loehrer clarified that the show is dedicated exclusively to beef cattle.
Despite a school holiday on the Friday of the Farm Show, Loehrer acknowledged that many families remain busy with basketball and other winter activities, making volunteers and 4-H family participation even more critical to the show’s success.
