Monthly Topics

We will follow this pattern each year with different activities and discussions related to each monthly topic. The 4-H year begins in September. However, this is a year round program. We will elect 4-H Officers in the Fall and plan Service Projects for the Spring. In the Summer, we can represent 4-H at the county or state fair!

Ecosystem Overview

In this session, we will overview ecosystems, habitat, and biodiversity.

Weather & Climate

We will learn about the atomosphere and weather patterns over time.

Amphibians

Early spring is when vernal pools are active. Frogs and salamanders use these temporary bodies of water in wooded areas to lay their eggs. By summer, these pools will be dry.

Plants

Although botany is a broad topic, during this month we will overview plant diversity and classification and discuss native plants versus invasives for our area.

Birds & Bird Migration

Local birds are engaging in nest building while others are migrating. We welcome the birds of spring in this topic.

Fish

Our state has over 176,000 acres of public lakes and 27,300 miles of streams as well as ocean and wetland habitat. We will talk about the diversity of fish in our state.

Reptiles

Herpetology is the study of amphibians and reptiles. We overviewed amphibians in early spring. Now we will overview the top reptile species found in our local area and discuss how to protect their habitats.

Bugs

We will explore the enormous diversity of insects and arachnids along with other arthropods.

Mammals & Habitat

Virginia is home to less than 80 native land animals and almost 30 marine mammal species. We will review how to protect these species and their habitat.

Nocturnal Animals & Astronomy

We will cover all things "night" including nocturnal animals and what you can see at night. We will also overview our place in the universe and demonstrate the basics of stargazing.

Stewardship & Conservation

How do we take care of the environment inhabited by the animals and plants around us? We will discuss ways we can steward the land responsibly.

The Land

We will overview Virginia's geologic provinces, how these were caused, and what impacts these geologic processes today.