By: Jessica O’Connor
Registration is currently open through August 12, 2022 for participation in the state 4-H food plot contest.
The National Deer Association and Wannamaker Wildlife have graciously sponsored this year’s contest, which is open for youth ages 5-18. Participants will receive enough seed from Wannamaker Wildlife to plant approximately ⅛ of an acre food plot. They will also receive educational materials and record books that have been specially tailored for each age group. Owning the land used for planting is not a requirement as long as the appropriate permission is obtained.
Contestants will plant, manage, and document the growth of their food plot from September 2022 through January 2023. All seed should be planted by the beginning of November, and physical judging of plots will be conducted in January 2023. Winners will be awarded at the county, region, and state level for each age group.
Record books have long been an important part of 4-H projects and contests. Youth who participate in the food plot contest will complete age appropriate record books that document how their food plots are prepared, planted, maintained, and observed. Records will also be kept on the financial aspects of the project.
Participation in the food plot contest will provide youth with a hands-on learning opportunity surrounding plant identification and what is needed to make the forage thrive. Participants will also learn about wildlife habits and habitats. The experience as a whole is an excellent exercise in goal setting, responsibility building, and discipline strengthening for youth.
To learn more about the 4-H food plot competition or to register, visit https://www.clemson.edu/extension/4h/programs/natural-resources/wildlife-food-plot/index.html. Information can also be obtained via the Colleton County 4-H club.
