Wood County 4-H is beginning its 2026-27 program year after reporting significant growth in membership during the previous year.
According to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in Wood County, the local 4-H program grew 150% during the 2025-26 program year, with continued growth expected this year. County Extension Hilary Grider-Henk attributed some of the increase to the addition of new projects and volunteer leaders.
Newer offerings include fashion and interior design, floral design, shooting sports and sport fishing. Participation also has increased in traditional family and community health and agriculture projects, including Food Challenge, a cooking competition similar to the television show “Chopped,” and meat judging.
“4-H offers youth the chance to discover their passions, develop confidence, and gain valuable skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. Whether a young person is interested in science, agriculture, leadership, or the arts, there is a place for them in 4-H,” Grider-Henk said.
Wood County 4-H members also have participated in leadership and community service activities. Club officers attended the Learn Today Lead Tomorrow conference this summer, where they participated in leadership training and the District 5 Council officer election process.
Wood County 4-H will join programs across the country in observing National 4-H Week Oct. 4-10.
As part of the observance, the Wood County 4-H Awards Banquet will be held Tuesday, Oct. 6, recognizing participating youth, leaders and volunteers.
The Wood County Commissioners Court also issued a proclamation Sept. 29 recognizing National 4-H Week. Green bows have been placed around the Wood County Courthouse square in recognition of local 4-H members.
Texas 4-H is the youth development program of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Members participate in projects involving agriculture and livestock, family and community health, leadership and citizenship, natural resources, STEM and other areas.
Activities include club meetings, educational contests, project work, leadership opportunities and community service.
Enrollment for the 2026-27 program year is open. Information about Wood County 4-H is available through the Wood County Extension Office at 903-763-2924 or the Wood County AgriLife Extension website.