4-H Clubs are gearing up for a new year. Here are some frequently asked questions about 4-H to help youth better under what 4-H is all about.

Who can join 4-H? Youth are eligible to participate in 4-H if they are 8 and in the 3rd grade or 9 years of age by August 31, 2009 and have not reached their 19th birthday on or before August 31, 2009.

How do I join? Youth need to fill out a 4-H enrollment form at the Co. Extension office or at a 4-H club meeting. This puts you on the mailing list. Once on the mailing list, you will receive the 4-H newsletter. The 4-H newsletter has information about 4-H club meetings, 4-H activities and events. You can choose to participate in anything you would like to.

Are there dues? There are no dues paid for being a 4-H member. However, the projects you choose to do can cost money. For example if you want to participate in the Foods & Nutrition project, you will need to pay a registration fee of $10.00. If you decide to enter the Co. Food Show, you will need to purchase groceries to prepare your dish. If you decide you want to do the Horse Play Days, you will need to have a horse or at least access to one.

Can I be a 4-H member if I am home schooled? yes.

As a 4-H member what do I do? You need to attend the monthly 4-H meetings. 4-H has meetings each month (usually September thru April/May). At the 4-H meeting you will meet and make new friends, learn things, and hear about upcoming projects and activities you can do. You will also want to do at least one project. Some of the projects could include: Foods & Nutrition, Lamb, Goat, Swine, Beef, Photography, Clothing, Shooting Sports, Archery, etc are just a few.

Can I just join 4-H in September? No. Youth may join anytime although the majority of youth start in September.

Do some projects have special requirements? Yes. Both archery and shooting sports both have safety classes that have to be attended before a youth can participate in the practice sessions. The safety classes are generally offered only once a year. 4-H Vet Science Project began in June and will probably take new members again in January.

Where do I go for additional information or for another question? Call the Co. Extension Office at 372-5416 or look on the web site http://san-saba-tx.tamu.edu/