Employee: 2020 County Fair Resources

NOTE: This page should be considered an internal document. It is not designed to be shared in its entirety outside of Nebraska Extension.

Guidelines for 4-H Events at County Fairs:

  • 4-H Space (areas that 4-H will manage):
    • Show ring and entry/exit lanes
    • Static exhibit areas during entry, judging and exhibit release
    • Announcer/recorder area
    • 4-H show office
  • All Extension employees will wear a mask/facial cover or maintain 6 ft physical distancing
  • 4-H volunteers will wear a mask/facial cover or maintain 6 ft physical distancing when in 4-H Space
  • 4-H exhibitors and judges will follow District Health Department policy in 4-H Space
    • Judges must mask/facial cover if within 6 ft of an exhibitor
    • Need PPE on site
  • Food Stands should review the applicable guidelines set forth in the restaurant in-room dining reopening guidelines, including the use of face masks. See Guidance for Restricted Fair Openings (6/19/20)
  • Consequences:
    • Any person disregarding these guidelines will be asked to leave ‘4-H Space’
    • Develop intervention strategies to engage those who might not comply

Making Decisions about 4-H at County Fairs

Nebraska 4-H is looking forward to working with each of our county fairs across the state. Due to restrictions currently in place by COVID-19, many county fairs are looking at options for how to showcase 4-H’ers and judge 4-H exhibits and contests. We are working closely with Ag Societies/ County Fairboards, local Health Departments, and 4-H Councils to make decisions that will best meet local needs while complying with state/regional/local guidelines and policies.

We are operating under:

While each county will look different based on local needs and restrictions, 4-H will offer ways for youth to celebrate their accomplishments and showcase the work they’ve been doing throughout the year.

Counties need to work closely with their Ag Societies and/or County Fairboards to make decisions that will best meet local needs.

Steps to consider as decisions are being made:

  • Reach out to Ag Societies/Fairboards to discuss options
  • Utilize guidelines from health dept/governor’s restrictions
  • Explore what might work best based on local need – a joint decision is best
  • Exercise the right to be creative
  • Call if you’d like to walk through possibilities

You can also find questions to think about in the Contingency Planning for Restricted Fair Opening from the International Association of Fairs and Expositions.

Reach out to Start the Conversation

Talking Points

  1. Acknowledge this is a difficult and important conversation.
  2. Demonstrate gratitude for the partnership and the opportunity to be in discussion about what is best.
  3. Affirm your intention to keep positive youth development at the center of the decision-making process.

What We Know

  • Suggest making decisions 6 weeks prior
  • Follow local health department guidelines
  • Follow Governor's guidelines

We have options that are flexible to fit the needs of each county

  1. Face-to-Face
  2. Blended model (some face-to-face, some virtual)
  3. Virtual

Additional Questions/Conversations

  • What needs to happen to have Face-to-Face events? Who will be responsible for what?
  • What would motivate families to exhibit virtually?
  • How can the 4-H Council support a virtual fair experience if we do a blended or virtual model?
  • What do you want to make sure is included or a "must-have" in the virtual option? (For example, options: do you want to see the child's face or what is it that to love int he face-to-face setting - what of those things are important?

Resources

Virtual 4-H Options, Recommendation & Best Practices

In the event that Virtual Opportunities are selected for either all or part of the process, the following guidelines may be helpful.

Outlined below are options available and recommendations for specific types of exhibits. Counties will need to make their own decisions for which options they pursue based on time, cost, etc. Regardless of the specific choices:

  • All entries should be reviewed by one educator and the superintendent of that area.
  • Information about the classes should be sent out in 4-H Online at least 30-60 days prior to the event. It is encouraged to hold a Zoom meeting with club leaders and families to announce the format and answer questions.
  • Families need to be enrolled in the 4-H project by the deadline and meet all project requirements (including identification/nomination requirements and have completed the YQCA requirements for livestock, rabbit, poultry).

Additional things to think about:

  • The number of judges you may need. This may open your county up to new options for judges since distance and cost may not be as much of an issue. Volunteer judges are an option for those without support to hire judges for virtual formats.
  • Look through the presentation criteria for the various projects. This may need to be adjusted based on the options your county chooses and the recommendations outlined below. For example, instead of how to hang your exhibit, that should be replaced with how to submit your exhibit online. 
  • There may be opportunities for new projects or a change in the project area to fit the format. These changes could potentially continue beyond this pandemic, as well.
  • Consider your county's entry submission timeframe (open date to close date). 

Resources

Webinar Recordings

Livestock

Platform Options:

Option A: ShoWorks FairVault

  • Additional cost for each exhibit = $0.80 per entry.
  • Counties can customize the required materials for entries.
  • The platform allows for up to 3 photos, 1 video, and 5 documents.
  • The youth will be prompted to upload the required items.
  • Judging takes place within the platform. Judges can be granted access to specific classes, divisions, or departments.

Option B: Box

  • Counties can setup Box folders for youth to upload videos, photos, or additional documents. 
  • Use Qualtrics form or Google Doc for digital scoresheets. 
  • To keep file organized, have youth use consistent and standard file names, such as FirstName-LastName_ClassNumber-Division-Department.jpg (example: Joe-Smith_C221001-Beyond-the-Needle-Clothing.jpg).
  • Instructions for allowing others to upload files to Box (50 MB max):

Market/Breeding Livestock Project Judging

The following criteria are written for market and breeding beef, swine, sheep, and goats. However, it could also be utilized for specialty livestock, such as dairy goat, dairy cattle, llama, alpaca, pet goat, etc.

Video Guidelines

  • Videos must be at least 60 seconds and no more than 90 seconds in length (up to 120 MB).
  • The video must include these angles in the specific order and on level ground:
    1. side profile = 10-15 seconds
    2. front view = 10-15 seconds
    3. rear view = 10-15 seconds
    4. top view = 10-15 seconds
    5. on the move from the site and from the rear view = 30 seconds
    6. end with another side profile
  • The video must be taken with ___ days of the show's entry closing deadline.
  • Keep the recording device horizontal (not vertical) when shooting the video.
  • Stabilize the recording device if possible (set it on a table, use a tripod, etc.) so the shot is steady.
  • Use natural lighting (if possible).
  • Avoid cluttered backgrounds.
  • Videos should not include any past awards, banners, promotional materials, etc.
  • Videos should not include any other people in the background.
  • Videos should be shot on a flat surface. If the video is shot on grass, it should be a mowed lawn surface.
  • Do not use the zoom on the recording device - get physically closer instead.
  • No editing of the videos is allowed. 
  • No text or audio is allowed.

Exhibitor Guidelines

  • Exhibitors should wear appropriate show clothing as if he/she were in the actual showing (no hats, t-shirts, shorts, etc.)
  • Exhibitors should act and show as if they were in the show ring.
  • Unless answering questions for showmanship purposes, the showman shouldn't talk. No details regarding the animal should be given during the video.
  • If competing in showmanship, the exhibitor's face and full body should be within the video frame at all times.
  • Exhibitors are allowed to use show sticks.

Animal Guidelines

  • All entries will need to include a video (or photo) of the animal's head with a visual tag ID, ear notch, or tattoo.
  • A copy, scan, or photo of breed registration paper for registered animals may also be a requirement.
  • Fit or not fit requirements are determined by the county or show guidelines.
  • Animals should be shown on show halter and should be handled as if they are in the actual show ring.
Livestock Showmanship

Download an editable version of the Livestock Showmanship guidelines.

Livestock showmanship will incorporate two divisions, Questions and Animal. Youth will complete separate videos for each division and each will be judged separately. The Top 3 from the Animal Division will be sorted based on Question Division Results. To rank among the Top 3 overall, contestants must participate in BOTH divisions.

Question Division

The contestant will develop and submit a 1-minute video of themselves answering assigned questions. Question video will then be judged by Extension personnel from a distant county. The judge will determine the Top 3 winners of the Animal Division. 

Example age division questions:

  • Junior: Why do you like being involved in 4-H?
  • Intermediate: What have you learned through your involvement with 4-H livestock projects?
  • Senior: Through 4-H, how can we advocate for animal agriculture?

Video Guidelines:

  • The maximum video length is 1 minute.
  • Contestants may NOT introduce themselves or provide any indication of their identity. For example, contestants may not answer the question in front of a family ranch sign. This is to maintain fairness and eliminate perceptions, based on a name.
  • The contestant should wear the appropriate, official 4-H dress (as for their county showmanship contest).
  • Contestants may use creativity in terms of identifying the "backdrop" for their video (example: by feed bunks, outside barn, by tractor, feedlot, pasture, etc.). No digitally incorporated backgrounds, other people, past awards, banners, family ranch signs, advertising materials, etc. 
  • Keep the recording device horizontal (not vertical) when shooting the video.
  • Stabilize the recording device if possible (set it on a table, book, use a tripod, etc.) so the shot is steady.
  • Record 3-5 seconds before and after the 4-H begins speaking (if applicable). 
  • Use natural lighting (if possible).
  • Avoid cluttered backgrounds.
  • Do not include any awards, ribbons, banners, etc. in the background. 
  • Do not use the zoom on the recording device - get physically closer instead.
  • No editing of the videos is allowed. 
  • No text is allowed.
  • Videos should not include any past awards, banners, promotional materials, etc.

Animal Divisions

The youth will develop a continuous video to showcase showmanship skills and animal training. The contestant may develop their own showmanship pattern (freestyle) to best showcase skills and training. For each species, key elements of showmanship for that species must be incorporated into the video. Animal Division videos will be evaluated by the Show Judge who will sort videos into ribbon categories (purple, blue, red, white) and will identify the Top 3, based on the animal videos (no particular order).

Video Guidelines:

  • The video must be a single, continuous shot. The video cannot be pieced together using shorter clips.
  • The length of the video depends on which entry platform is used. If using FairVault, it will only allow up to 90 seconds. If using a Box Folder, the video could be extended to a longer time.
  • The youth will develop a fluid 3-minute video to showcase showmanship skills and animal training. Fluid implies a continuous shoot; may not connect short video clips or delete video segments.
  • The contestant may develop their own showmanship pattern (freestyle) to best showcase skills and training.
  • Camera angles should represent the "judge's view."
  • Contestants will need to engage up to 3 people during the video shoot, as follows:
    • The showmanship contestant
    • The judge (videographer)
    • The ring assistant - somebody who can step in to help the animal move, etc.
  • For each species, key elements of showmanship for that species must be incorporated into the video.
    • Beef Cattle, Sheep, Goat
      1. Side view; walk into a stop (profile).
      2. Quick spin-around.
      3. Judge's front view (walking across the front).
      4. Judge's rear view.
      5. Anything to showcase command and training of the animal (appropriate for showing).
    • Swine
      1. Straight-line walk away from the camera.
      2. Straight-line profile walk (from camera angle).
      3. Must pen hog, hold for 10 seconds, and release.
      4. Anything to showcase command and training of the animal (appropriate for showing).
  • The contestant should wear the appropriate, official 4-H dress (as for their county showmanship contest).
  • Keep the recording device horizontal (not vertical) when shooting the video.
  • Stabilize the recording device if possible (set it on a table, book, use a tripod, etc.) so the shot is steady.
  • Use natural lighting (if possible).
  • Avoid cluttered backgrounds.
  • Do not include any awards, ribbons, banners, etc. in the background. 
  • Do not use the zoom on the recording device - get physically closer instead.
  • No editing of the videos is allowed. 
  • No text or audio is allowed.
  • Videos should not include any past awards, banners, promotional materials, etc.
Horse

Entry Information

  • Refer to the Livestock Plan with the exclusion of the “complete the YQCA requirements”
  • ***Aspects to think about when choosing the program for entries, most videos will be longer than 30-90 seconds.

Virtual Rules & GuidelinesExhibitor Guidelines

  • Judge’s Decision is FINAL
  • Any subject that is not covered in these rules will follow the Nebraska 4-H Horse Show and Judging Guide.
  • Follow the class' posted pattern/format and class filming guidelines; failure to do so is grounds for disqualification.
  • Each video should only include one "entry" for a single class (with some class exceptions).
  • Video entries must be taped during the posted show dates and submitted by the posted deadline. Failure to do so is grounds for disqualification.
  • All classes are judged according to the current Nebraska 4-H Horse Show and Judging Guide unless otherwise stated. All equipment and attire must be legal.
  • DISCLAIMER: By entering in these classes, you are aware that the video you upload could be used for public viewing, educational content, and social media promotions.

Animal Virtual Guidelines

Video Submission Guidelines

  • All videos must be filmed from the judge’s point of view. (Location will be identified in each of the presented patterns)- you may ask your judges where they would like the camera placed in the pattern classes
  • All patterns must be measured according to the distances listed on the pattern page.
  • Videos made with a mobile device need to be in "landscape mode"
    1. While not required, using a tripod will produce a better video
  • Minimize the use of zooming, keep in mind the judge needs to see the entire arena and cones to judge accuracy.
  • All videos must be filmed continuously without any breaks or edits. Videos with breaks in filming or are edited will be eliminated.
  • All videos must be original for the show they are entered. Video of rides from another show of any kind will be eliminated.
  • IMMEDIATELY BEFORE THE RIDER STARTS THE PATTERN, all videos must clearly identify the date of filming, the name (with age group example: Elementary, Junior, Senior) of the class, the name of the horse and first name of the rider.
    1. This can be accomplished by your assistant holding a sheet of paper with the necessary information on it in front of the camera. The video needs to capture the rider and the information in the same frame.
  • All videos must have the sound turned on so that the judge can hear the normal sounds as in a live show. For example: the hoof beat of the horse, the sound of the horse’s breathing, birds, wind, normal area sounds.
  • Videos without sound will be eliminated
  • Videos may NOT have background music
  • No coaching or unauthorized assistance is allowed. Any coaching or unauthorized assistance detected on a video will be grounds for elimination
  • Earphones and any kind of electronic communication devices are NOT ALLOWED in videos submitted for judging. Use of any electronic communication will be penalized by elimination.
  • Review your video before submission

Video Specifications for 1 & 2 Year Old Halter

  • Camera should be placed outside the longing circle approximately 40 feet from the handler
  • Follow the longing procedures in the Nebraska 4-H Horse Show and Judging Guide (pages 28-29)

Video Specifications for Halter

  1. The horse will start at Cone A and walk to the camera
  2. As the horse approaches, the camera operator will step to the right (left of the horse) to enable the horse to trot straight to Cone B placed approximately 50 feet away.
  3. At Cone B the Horse will continue trotting turn to the left and continue trotting.
  4. Exhibitor should then stop and set up for inspection. Camera operator should capture 5-10 seconds of each view of the horse (left profile, front, right profile, and rear) with the horse centered in the frame from each position. Download pattern.

Video Specifications for Pattern Classes (Hunt Seat Equitation, Western Horsemanship, Showmanship, Reining, Western Riding, Trail, Ranch Riding, Dressage, etc.)

  • The judge should provide the pattern (you will need to ask them if they have specifics for the following), if not then you will need to provide the following to make the patterns consistent among the exhibitors.
    1. Ask the judge to specify any distances between cones/markers (if necessary)
    2. Camera location
    3. Specific directions of maneuvers
  • If exhibitors do not have cones, they may use some type of marker to identify the locations of the cones in the pattern (water bottles, buckets etc.)
  • Example-Showmanship
    1. Inspection: must either have someone walk for the inspection or have the camera operator walk for inspection while keeping the exhibitor in camera frame.
    2. Overall grooming of the horse and exhibitor will be taken into account. Download Pattern.

Video Specifications for Rail Classes

  • Horse must be filmed from the profile approximately 40 ft away. Must show at least 10-15 seconds in the walk, trot/jog and canter/lope from each direction as well as a stop and back 5 steps.
  • Camera assistants may zoom in to capture the best visual gaits of the horse

Video Specifications for Pattern Classes with Equipment

  • Exhibitors may only enter this class if you have the required equipment necessary for the pattern
    1. Hunter Hack/Jumping- requires jump standards and a certain number of jumps and spacing
    2. Trail
      • Measurements are approximations and merely guidelines while setting your pattern
        • Walk-over poles should be 15-24 inches apart
        • Trot-over poles should be 3-3.5 feet apart
        • Lope-over poles should be 6-7 feet apart
        • Recommendation: use 12 foot poles for “fan or “wagon wheel” maneuvers with a cone placed in the center. If using 8 ft poles, the inner-most edge of the pole should be 6.5 ft from the cone placed in the center.
    3. If you do not have a bridge available, you may use plywood or a secured tarp
    4. If you do have a bridge it is recommended to the dimensions a width of 3 feet and length of 6 feet
    5. If you do not have a gate, you may make a “makeshift” gate if it is approximately 4 feet apart and 4 feet in height
    6. Back through should have a width of 28 inches of space between poles on the ground.
    7. Serpentine cones should be distanced approximately 3.5 feet apart from each other
    8. If you do not have cones, please use some type of marker to identify the locations of the cones in the pattern.
    9. Boxes made of poles should be 5 to 8-foot squares
    10. If you do not have enough poles for the full pattern you may make 2 videos, video A should record steps #-# (Example 1-5) and video B should record steps #-# (Example 6-10)

  • Ranch Riding- requires 4 poles
  • Dressage- requires Dressage Letters- you can have exhibitors make their own
    • Videos must be filmed from the judge’s point of view. (Approximately 16 feet behind the letter “C”
  • Speed and roping events- are not recommended for a Virtual Show.
Poultry

The following criteria would be for all poultry exhibits.

Video Submission Guidelines for Large Fowl, Bantams, and Waterfowl Breeds

  • The video must be recorded on a mobile phone in landscape mode (Horizontal video).
  • Video clips must be 60-90 seconds in length.
  • No editing of the video. The video should be one take with no starting and stopping. Only raw footage will be evaluated. No text or audio in the video.
  • The video should not include any other people in the background.
  • The background should not include any past awards, banners, promotional material, etc…
  • Exhibitors should wear appropriate, official 4-H attire.
  • Video Outline: Large fowl and bantams (show in order) 
    • Head, Wings (both unfolded), Tail 
    • Pose bird (Left, Back, Right, Front and End on Left (May alternate routine) 
    • Wings should be completely unfolded to show all primary, axle, and secondary feathers as well as entire wing color patterns. 
    • Fingers should not cover up any wing feathers.
    • Bantams and Large Fowl should be identified using a card. Should include Breed, Variety, Age, and Sex.
      • Example: Plymouth Rock, Barred, Cockerel
  • Video Outline: Ducks and Geese 
    • Ducks and Geese should be shown in a cage or pen large enough for them to stand and move freely. 
    • Ducks and Geese should NOT be handled by the exhibitor but allowed to move around naturally. 
    • Ducks and Geese are better shown 2-3 feet back from the cage or pen. 
      • Runner Ducks should be shown running in a ring or pen. The ring or pen should not have a top that would impede the duck from standing straight up.
      • Runner Ducks should not be handled.
    • The video should be taken ideally from a side profile of the bird.
    • Waterfowl should be identified using a card. Should include Breed, Age and Sex
      • Rouen, Young Drake (Duck)
      • African, Young Gander (Goose)
  • Video Outline: Turkeys
    • Turkeys should be identified with a card stating Variety, sex and age
      • Example: Royal Palm Young Tom
    • Turkeys should be initially shown in the cage or pen that allows them to stand and move freely
    • Turkeys should be removed to show the breast bone to show for straightness.
    • Videos or photos of turkeys should be taken 2-3 feet from cage or pen
    • Ideally, a side and front profiles are best to show length and width of body.
  • Video Outline: Pigeons
    • Pigeons should be shown in the cage that allows them to stand and move freely
    • Video or photos of each wing to show condition and color pattern.
    • Identify the pigeon using a card making sure to include:
      • Breed
      • Age (Young or Old)
      • Sex (Cock or Hen)
      • Example: American Fantail Young Cock

Video Submission Guidelines for Single Laying Hens, Production Trios, and Broilers

  • The video must be recorded on a mobile phone in landscape mode (Horizontal video).
  • Video clips must be 60-90 seconds in length.
  • No editing of the video. The video should be one take with no starting and stopping. Only raw footage will be evaluated. No text or audio in the video.
  • The video should not include any other people in the background.
  • The background should not include any past awards, banners, promotional material, etc…
  • Exhibitors should wear appropriate, official 4-H attire.
  • Video Outline: Production Laying Trios 
    • Hens should be marked with a different colored leg band. 
    • Each hen should be quickly handled to show pelvic width and pelvic depth of each hen. 
    • Video of the pen of hens taken 2 feet from the cage. 
    • All three hens in the production trio should be shown in the same cage.
  • Video Outline: Single Laying Hen
    • Single Laying Hen should be shown in her own cage. 
    • The video should be taken 2 feet from the cage. 
    • The 4-Her should pick up the bird and show an up-close video showing pelvic width and depth.
  • Video Outline: Broilers (Pen of 3 and Single Broiler Entries) 
    • Exhibitors should present a card or clipboard that displays the weight of each bird. For a pen of 3, present all 3 broilers on a table with assistance from a family member. Pose bird (Left, Back, Right, Front and End on Left).
    • For single broiler entries, the same process should be followed as with the Pen of 3 Broilers.
    • Pen of 3 broilers should be 3 cockerels or 3 pullets.

Photo Submission Guidelines for Egg Exhibits

  • The exhibitor will provide 2-3 photos of the egg exhibit. 
    • (1 photo) Eggs show in carton (half dozen or full dozen). 
    • (1-2 photos) Eggs should be shown on their sides to show uniformity, color, and abnormalities.

Photo Submission Ideas for Static Projects

  • The following projects could be offered as a static project:
    • Photography
    • Homemade feeders/waterers and nest boxes
    • Poultry first aid kit
    • Poultry posters (Breeding/genetics, nutrition, health, biosecurity, grading eggs, home processing of a meat bird, etc.)

Virtual Poultry Showmanship Contest

Entry Platform Options

Option A: Use Box to share videos, photos, and files with judges

  • By using Box, exhibitors will be required to submit a pre-recorded video.

Option B: Use Zoom

  • Zoom will give judges the option to interview youth in a live showmanship presentation.

Video Submission Guidelines

  • Exhibitors will develop a 3 to 5-minute video to showcase showmanship skills and animal knowledge.
  • Reference your county’s current 4-H Poultry Showmanship scorecard to develop and present your showmanship. (Insert link to scorecard here)
  • The video must be recorded on a mobile phone in landscape mode (Horizontal video).
  • No editing of the video. The video should be one take with no starting and stopping. Only raw footage will be evaluated. No text or audio in the video.
  • The video should not include any other people in the background. • Background should not include any past awards, banners, promotional material, etc…
  • Exhibitors should wear appropriate, official 4-H attire.
Rabbit

The following criteria would be for all rabbit exhibits.

Video Submission Guidelines and Judging Criteria

  • The video must be recorded on a mobile phone in landscape mode (Horizontal video).
  • Video clips must be 60-90 seconds in length.
  • No editing of the video. The video should be one take with no starting and stopping. Only raw footage will be evaluated. No text or audio in the video.
  • The video should not include any other people in the background.
  • The background should not include any past awards, banners, promotional material, etc.
  • Exhibitors should wear appropriate, official 4-H attire.
  • All rabbits (Breed Classes, Fur, Market, and Showmanship) should be shown on a carpet square on a table. Rabbits should not be shown on the exhibitor’s lap and/or on a slick surface.
  • Except for market fryers, all entries will be required to include an image or video of the permanent ID number tattooed in the assigned ear.

Video Outline: Breed Classes (Fancy and Commercial Rabbits)

  • All rabbits should be identified on a card stating breed, age, and sex.
    • Fancy Breeds (4 Class)
      • Six months or Younger -Junior
      • Six months or Older – Senior
    • Commercial (6 Class)
      • 3-6 months -Junior
      • 6-8 months -Intermediate
      • 8 months or older - Senior
  • All rabbits being exhibited in the breed classes must be posed in their breed’s respective position at the start of the video. (Compact, Commercial, Full Arch, Semi Arch, Cylindrical)
  • Ideally, hands must be removed from the rabbit during the pose to allow the rabbit to sit in a natural position.
  • Pose rabbit front, left, back, right, and allow a couple of seconds to remain in those positions.
  • Show specific features of rabbits in these positions: 
    • In front position, show tattoo in the left ear.
    • In the back position, show the type and texture of fur. (Fly back, Roll back, etc.)
    • Flip the rabbit over to quickly show underneath view. (Teeth, Nose, Hocks and Sex of the rabbit)
  • Allow time for running breeds (Checkered Giants and Tans) to move on the table.

Video Outline: Market Breeds

  • All rabbits in the market class must provide individual ages and weights.
  • Market rabbits need not conform to any breed standards.
  • Rabbits should be posed front, left, back, and right.
  • Show width, depth, and length of loin using your hand.
    • The loin begins at the last rib and ends at the start of the hip. 
    • The width and depth of the loin should be shown at a side profile of the rabbit.

Video Outline: Fur Classes

  • With a card, the exhibitor should identify the age of the animal. (Junior, Intermediate, Senior)
  • Fur Class rabbits need not conform to breed standards.
  • On the back view, the exhibitor should show, with their hand, type of fur (Roll back, Fly Back, Rex, etc.)
  • The exhibitor should blow into the coat to show under color.

Video Outline: Pet Class

  • Pet rabbits should be those rabbits that are crossbred or have major disqualifications and faults that would downgrade them considerably in a breed show.
  • Follow same guidelines for breed class rabbits for posing and positioning and showing the various parts of the rabbit.
  • Rabbits should be a true pet rabbit, should stay on the table/carpet square without any handling needed.

Virtual Rabbit Showmanship Contest

Entry Platform Options

Option A: Use Box to share videos, photos, and files with judges

  • By using Box, exhibitors will be required to submit a pre-recorded video.

Option B: Use Zoom

  • Zoom will give judges the option to interview youth in a live showmanship presentation.

Video Submission Guidelines

  • Exhibitors will develop a 3 to 4-minute video to showcase showmanship skills and animal knowledge.
  • Reference your county’s current 4-H Rabbit Showmanship scorecard to develop and present your showmanship. (Insert link to scorecard here)
  • The video must be recorded on a mobile phone in landscape mode (Horizontal video).
  • No editing of the video. The video should be one take with no starting and stopping. Only raw footage will be evaluated. No text or audio in the video.
  • The video should not include any other people in the background.
  • The background should not include any past awards, banners, promotional material, etc.
  • Exhibitors should wear appropriate, official 4-H attire.
Dog

Entry Information

  • Refer to the Livestock Plan with the exclusion of the “complete the YQCA requirements”

Virtual Rules & Guidelines

Exhibitor Virtual Guidelines

  • Any subject that is not covered in these rules will follow the Nebraska 4-H Dog Show Rulebook
  • All classes are judged according to the current Nebraska 4-H Dog Show Rulebook unless otherwise stated.
  • Judge’s Decision is FINAL
  • No food/toys allowed unless noted

Animal Virtual Guidelines

  • Dogs should be shown in equipment as stated in the Nebraska 4-H Dog Show Rulebook
  • Exhibitor can engage up to 3 people
    • Exhibitor
    • Interim “judge”
    • Videographer

Video Submission Guidelines

  • All videos must be filmed continuously without any breaks or edits. Videos with breaks in filming or edited will be eliminated
  • All videos must be original for the show they are entered. Video from another show of any kind will be eliminated
  • Each video should include one entry submission for a single class
  • Background should not include other people, past awards, banners, advertising material, etc.
  • Videos made with a mobile device need to be in “landscape mode”
  • All videos must have sound turned on so that the judge can hear the normal sounds as in a live show. For example: the barking of the dog, birds, wind, normal area sounds.
  • Videos without sound will be eliminated
  • Videos may not have background music
  • Video angles should represent judge’s view
  • No coaching or unauthorized assistance is allowed. Any coaching or unauthorized assistance detected on a video will be grounds for elimination.
  • Review your videos before submission
  • The preferred camera location is noted in pre-designed courses ○ Courses will be pre-designed for Rally, Obedience, and Showmanship from the 4-H Dog Show Committee
  • **Aspects to think about when choosing the program for entries ○ Most videos will be longer than 30-90 seconds (obedience, rally, showmanship)

Video Specification for Showmanship Classes are as follows

  1. Refer to the redesigned showmanship course for the class to set the preferred camera location
  2. 2. The camera person or assistant may call out the pattern/maneuvers as necessary for the youth as the interim “judge”
  3. 3. At the end of the pattern please answer the following questions: (counties can ask their judges to pick questions they would like to ask for the video for different divisions) For Example:
    1. What is the breed of the dog?
    2. What type of food do you feed your dog and how much?
  4. 4. At the end of the questions, show the overall grooming of the dog as it is appropriate to the dog’s breed and style:
    1. Frontal View: Hold the camera approximately 3 feet away for 5 seconds
    2. Side View (Left Side): Hold the camera approximately 8 feet away and move the camera from in the direction of the dog’s head to tail. Make sure the dog’s full body is in the camera view.
    3. Side View (Right Side): Hold the camera approximately 8 feet away and move the camera from in the direction of the dog’s head to tail. Make sure the dog’s full body is in the camera view
    4. Rear View: Hold the camera approximately 3 feet away for 5 seconds OR Follow the Livestock plan for Showmanship classes

Video Specifications for Rally Classes are as follows

  • Set up the course with signs. The exhibitor can find Rally Signs Document on the 4-H 2020 Fairbook webpage-Dog section or make their own. Only the exhibitor needs to be able to read the signs as you are performing the course
  • Refer to the redesigned rally course for the class to set the preferred camera location
  • Patterns can have set distances between each command
  • Option: If the exhibitor does not have a marker or cone, please use some type of inanimate object to display the commands in the pattern

Video Specifications for Obedience are as follows

  • Refer to the redesigned course for the class to set the preferred camera location
  • The camera person or assistant may call out the command as necessary for the youth as the interim “judge”

Video/Photo Specifications for all versatility are as follows:

  • Trick Class
    • Youth will have a maximum of 10 seconds to show 1 trick with their dog
    • Use of food/treats and props are optional
    • https://youtu.be/k53c315kWug is a great video of some tricks youth can do with their dogs
    • This class will be judged on the Difficulty and Creativity of the trick
  • Costume Class
    • This class will be judged on the best dog and exhibitor costume pair
    • Use of food/treats and props are optional
    • This is a fun class, instead of placing you can have participation awards
    • How to upload photographs
      • Please upload your photograph in jpg format. Please save the photo with your first and last name as the title as seen in this example (costume.FirstLast) and the data tag with your first and last name as well (costume.FirstLast)
    • Super-Cute Class
      • This class will be judged on the cuteness of the dog
      • Creativity will be factored for placing
      • This can also be a participation class
      • The photo can only have the picture of the dog in the frame (no other animals or people may be in the photo)
      • Use of food/treats and props is optional
      • How to upload photographs
        • Please upload your photograph in jpg format. Please save the photo with your first and last name as the title as seen in this example (SuperCute.FirstLast) and the data tag with your first and last name as well (SuperCute.FirstLast)
    Static Exhibits

    To help safeguard the health and safety of our members and volunteers, COVID 4-H Static Judging Best Practices (updated 6/11/20) have been developed to aid in the static judging or showcasing process for fairs.

    Additional specific recommendations and resources:

    Platform Options:

    Option A: ShoWorks FairVault

    • Supports video and photo format options (see below).
    • Additional cost for each exhibit = $0.80 per entry.
    • Counties can customize the required materials for entries.
    • The platform allows for up to 3 photos, 1 video, and 5 documents.
    • The youth will be prompted to upload the required items.
    • Judging takes place within the platform. Judges can be granted access to specific classes, divisions, or departments.

    Option B: Box

    • Supports video and photo format options (see below).
    • Counties can setup Box folders for youth to upload videos, photos, or additional documents. 
    • Use Qualtrics form or Google Doc for digital scoresheets. 
    • To keep file organized, have youth use consistent and standard file names, such as FirstName-LastName_ClassNumber-Division-Department.jpg (example: Joe-Smith_C221001-Beyond-the-Needle-Clothing.jpg).
    • Instructions for allowing others to upload files to Box (50 MB max):

    Option C: Zoom 

    • Supports live/interview judging format option (see below).
    • Schedule live interview judging via Zoom.
    • Schedule 15 minutes per exhibit. 
    • Always have a third person in the Zoom meeting for youth safety. 

    Submission Format Options:

    Option A: Video

    Video submission may work well for nearly any static exhibit, especially interactive, functional, or complex items. Static exhibit video production tips include:

    • Keep the recording device horizontal (not vertical) when shooting the video.
    • Stabilize the recording device if possible (set it on a table, book, use a tripod, etc.) so the shot is steady.
    • Record 3-5 seconds before and after the 4-H begins speaking (if applicable). 
    • Shoot indoors (if possible/appropriate) in a quiet area.
    • Use natural lighting (if possible).
    • Avoid direct sunlight (if possible).
    • Avoid cluttered backgrounds.
    • Do not include any awards, ribbons, banners, etc. in the background. 
    • Do not use the zoom on the recording device - get physically closer instead.
    • Aim for 20-30 second videos.
    • Record video of the exhibit being used if appropriate (example: human development game).
    • Record video of the exhibit being created if appropriate (example: foods).
    • Get in close to the project to show off details but avoid using the zoom on the camera - get physically closer instead.
    • Include something else in the video that provides scale reference. This could be the 4-H'er holding the object or standing next to it, for example.
    • During the video, youth should answer at least 3 of the following questions:  
      1. How did you create the exhibit?
      2. Who helped you and how?
      3. What did you learn?
      4. What would you do differently next time?
      5. What is your favorite part of the project?

    Option B: Photo

    Stationary, 2-dimensional, and small exhibits may work better as photo submissions. Static exhibit photography production tips include: 

    • Use natural lighting.
    • Avoid direct sunlight.
    • Avoid cluttered backgrounds.
    • Do not crop or resize images.
    • Do not use the zoom on the camera - get physically closer instead.
    • Take photos from various angles (front, back, top, bottom, side, far away, close up, etc.).
    • Include close-up shots to show-off details but avoid using the zoom on the camera - get physically closer instead.
    • Include other items or objects in at least one photo to provide scale reference. This could be a pair of hands holding the object, the 4-H'er standing next to it, etc.
    • In addition to photos, have youth include a written description (200-500 words) answering at least 3 of the following questions: 
      1. How did you create the exhibit?
      2. Who helped you and how?
      3. What did you learn?
      4. What would you do differently next time?
      5. What is your favorite part of the project?

    Option C: Digital Document Submission

    This could be utilized for certain static exhibits, such as notebooks, reports, digitally create posters, digital photography, websites, presentations, etc.  

    In addition to the digital file, have youth include a written description (200-500 words) answering at least 3 of the following questions: 

    1. How did you create the exhibit?
    2. Who helped you and how?
    3. What did you learn?
    4. What would you do differently next time?
    5. What is your favorite part of the project?

    Option D: Live/Interview Judging

    This could be utilized for nearly any static exhibit, in place of in-person interview judging, as well as showmanship for small or companion animals. This could also be done in addition to video and photo submissions to expand the experience for youth.

    • Use Zoom video conferencing. 
    • Schedule 10-15 minutes for each youth.
    • Always have a third person in the Zoom meeting for youth safety. 

    Frequently Asked Questions

    This FAQ is meant to aid you in answering questions and thinking out scenarios related to Nebraska 4-H Summer programming. Please feel free to reach out to the state 4-H staff with any requests for clarification or additional questions.

    1. Who decides whether there will be a county fair?

    1. Holding a county fair is the decision of the local Fair Board and/or Ag Society. 4-H will celebrate the work of young people; our goal is to do that in a face to face setting, if we are unable to do that based on state and local health guidelines, we will do that with virtual options. Local and state health guidelines are subject to change; hence we will be making these decisions on a case by case basis.

    2. Will 4-H at all county fairs look the same?

    1. No. The celebration of 4-H work at the fair will depend on the local situation (safe distancing guidelines, current conditions, etc.).

    3. Do we hire judges for a virtual fair in which exhibits are judged as usual, or is a virtual fair primarily designed for celebration and display of the exhibits?

    1. Judges currently hired for an in-person fair should be contacted and asked to judge in a virtual format. If they choose not to do that, look for someone else.

    4. What do we do about certain projects like foods?

    1. While many food judges will taste an exhibit product, tasting is not a requirement and is only one quality consideration. Some county-only projects, may not be able to allow the member to fully create a project given circumstances as described. This could be a case where these exhibits are judged at a later time or on-display only. If you need assistance brainstorming alternatives, please reach out to colleagues or state staff members

    5. How will projects be chosen to go on to the Nebraska State Fair?

    1. Regardless of in-person or virtual fair, judges will critique and evaluate exhibits the same as they always have done.

    6. Being a later fair, we are concerned about 4-H’ers transferring membership to our county: this is a concern our fairboard is having. Can we deny transfer youth?

    1. In order to support county fairs and the process, 4-H members will only be allowed to transfer their membership to other counties on a case by case basis for the rest of 2020. This has been changed in 4-H Online; if there is a specific need, contact Kathleen.

    7. What should we do about the Special Awards we give at the fair if we do some sort of virtual judging, should we go ahead and name special award/trophy winners?

    1. While this is a local decision, some things to consider:
      • Will there be more than one judge for the class/category where the award is given, it may be challenging.
      • Are there resources to make the award? Given the situation with county resources, there may or may not be resources available. Maybe virtual awards?
      • How would you get the award to the 4-H’er? It may be problematic to get the award to the 4-H’er.

    8. Who makes the final local decision of how to proceed with the 4-H Division? Will each county be directed by their 4-H Coordinator on what the decision is OR is this a local office / Council decision?

    1. a. This is a local decision; issues to consider in making those decisions have been provided. If you need help in walking through the process, contact your 4-H Coordinator.

    9. Does the local office/Council get to select the date of when a final decision will be made?

    1. We suggest making the decision six weeks out. That gives families and other partners time to prepare.

    10. Is an Expo or Progress Show Style an option to showcase livestock shows? This would mean we would have only the livestock of that day come in, weigh in the morning, put together the show program, show the animals, and then return home that night. One day is beef, one day is sheep/ goats, etc.

    1. That could be an option if the process met the rules of the local health dept and the governor’s guidelines around social distancing.

    11. What are the steps of getting out of social distancing? Is there a possibility of getting up to 50 people together at a time – so we could do Expo Style? If not – be open and honest with us so we know our options.

    1. We will not “get out” of social distancing. We will comply with the rules that are in place by local health departments and the Governor.

    12. How we proceed with the livestock show also affects the livestock auction. Those pieces need to start being decided if we are not having a “regular” fair.

    1. Correct, a conversation with the Fairboard will be critical to talk through this process. Given the situation of local processors, auctions may or may not be feasible in 2020.

    13. Could we have a Livestock Show with exhibitors and parents only to reduce the numbers in attendance? Who gives the okay and final say on this decision?

    1. a. This would be possible if it would follow social distancing guidelines and total numbers in the community where the show is held. Guidelines are being developed by the Virtual Livestock Show Committee.

    14. What is the realistic possibility of the State Fair and what would the State Fair Process potentially be?

    1. The decision to have a Nebraska State Fair will be made by the Nebraska State Fairboard in conjunction with appropriate partners (Governor’s office, Health Dept). Like county fairs, they are going through all of the questions related to various aspects (will people come, revenue generation, contract issues, economic consequences, etc.).

    15. Can we split the animal portion and static portions into different times of the year?

    1. Yes, if that makes sense for the county.

    16. Could we hold off on statics for judging with actual judges till October?

    1. Yes; however, these exhibits would not be a part of the State Fair exhibit process.
    2. We may not know the final decision made about the State Fair till after your County Fair decision will have to be made.
    3. There could be the potential of having virtual judging this summer and then a F2F celebration where youth bring their exhibits in the fall.
    4. Think about how fall will look. With many events being postponed, fall promises to be quite busy.

    17. If a county fair is not able to happen will those 4-H'ers have the opportunity to participate in the Nebraska State Fair?

    1. Yes. While we don’t know enough about how the State Fair will look to share final details, we will ensure that all young people who are age-eligible and in State Fair eligible projects/classes will have a chance for their work to be a part of the Nebraska State Fair. At this time, we don’t know whether how many exhibits we will able to have at the State Fair (social distancing may change our space and exhibitor numbers); it may be a limited number of exhibits per youth or some other kind of system. We will share more as we learn more.

    18. YQCA: Is this still required for virtual fairs?

    1. Yes. The YQCA certification, although required to exhibit livestock, poultry, and rabbit projects, is not only attached to exhibiting in person but teaches youth best practices to raise healthy animals and adhere to animal well-being, food safety, and becoming confident and informed producers. All still necessary for a virtual show. Also, it is a packer requirement for many fairs shipping livestock through a contracted packer. 

    19. YQCA deadline is set for June 15, can we adjust that for this year?

    1. The YQCA deadline is set by your county. Your county can decide to be flexible on your YQCA deadline as long as the requirement is completed by the time of the exhibit whether in person or virtual. 

    20. Should I still be booking and contacting judges?

    1. Judges should be contacted and booked as normal. Have conversations with judges letting them know your timeline for deciding what format your exhibits will be judged under and make sure they are comfortable judging under a variety of delivery (virtual, face-to-face, blended). Judges or any other volunteers we bring in to do Zoom or virtual interviews should still be screened.

    21. I was on the webinar with Mike from ShoWorks and heard a $250 amount thrown out. Is that a setup fee?

    1. There is no setup fee. It's just a per ENTRY rate (not per file). If a fair is very small, and their per entry charges don't amount to $250 total billing, then we charge $250. So, it's a per Entry rate, but there is a minimum charge threshold of $250. Page 2 of the FairVault Sale Sheet has the per Entry pricing. Remember, there can be 10 files collected per entry. Whether a fair collects 1 file or 10 per Entry, it's the same cost because you pay per entry. 

    22. If I sign up for an account but don't use it, is there a charge?

    1. No. We charge after a given fair's event. We quantify the number of entries that had files collected and only count those for billing processes.

    23. Using FairVault, how are champions selected or items which would move on to the State Fair?

    1. There are a couple of options. You would record your champions back in ShoWorks after you import your scores. Alternatively, some fairs have a predefined division called "Fair Champions" that they move the champion entries into (they use the Entry Grid View to move the selected entries into the champion division). If you don't want to use the highest scores to determine the champion for a given class, the judge can either provide you with the WEN number of the entry they want to choose, or they can indicate in the judge comments that the entry is to be selected as champion. Again, this is if they don't want to use the highest judging score. 

    24. In FairVault, what is PDF Text on the upload options?

    1. PDF Text is what you name the first PDF you are trying to collect. For example, you could type "Breeder's Cert" in the PDF Text pop-up box. The importance of this is whatever you put in the PDF text box will show up on the PDF upload box that the exhibitor sees while uploading. So, you are effectively naming the Upload Box and helping the exhibitor understand what they are supposed to upload in that box. If you leave PDF Text blank, the upload box will just say upload a PDF and not tell them what type of PDF. 

    25. Is there any way to collect fees in FairVault?

    1. Not in FairVault but you can in ShoWorks. You can collect fees in Online Entries as usual.

    26. Can families upload multiple times?

    1. Yes. Exhibitors can log back into their Online Entries account and upload for up to 60 days beyond the entry deadline.

    27. How should my county make a decision regarding our local support auction?

    1. As per 4-H policy (section 11.4), 4-H youth development does not support auctions. 4-H educators can work with their local auction committee to assist in making decisions based on health and safety guidelines as well as the current economic climate. 

    28. If we have an in-person component to the fair and someone gets ill what is the liability of 4-H and our partners?

    1. If we are in compliance with the established guidelines for the location of the event, we should not be found to be negligent in the circumstance that someone would become ill. Signage should be posted explaining the inherent risk that is assumed by those who choose to attend; our responsibility is to comply with established guidelines. 

    29. What if families choose not to wear masks?

    1. According to the Governor’s DHM’s: Fair staff and volunteer workers must wear face coverings (cloth masks), unless their duties allow a consistent social distance of 6 feet. http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx)
    2. Additionally, the Governor’s Guidance for Livestock Shows and Events in Nebraska to Slow the Spread of COVID-19 states: Wearing cloth face masks is encouraged, but, if adhering to the 6 feet social distancing recommendations are not necessary unless otherwise noted below https://nda.nebraska.gov/COVID-19/index.html
    3. While families are encouraged to wear masks, it is not required. Your local health dept may be able to help with options in the show ring. For example, in Platte County, for those youth who are wearing masks in the show ring, if an outbreak occurs after the event, they will not need to self-quarantine. Those youth who choose not to wear a mask and outbreak occurs will.

    30. What happens if we have families that are not staying 6 ft. apart?

    1. According to the DHM: In the event of noncompliance with the terms of this Order, law enforcement and other Municipal and Local Public Health Department personnel will be required to aid the Department in enforcement of the Order, pursuant to 173 NAC 6 and NEB. REV. STAT.§ 71-502. http://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/COVID-19-Directed-Health-Measures.aspx

    31. Do horse exhibitors need to wear masks?

    1. Horse exhibitors should not be required to wear masks while riding (they are typically 6 ft apart so are social distancing). If they choose to do so, they can. In other 4-H spaces, follow the regular fair guidance:
      • 4-H exhibitors and judges will follow District Health Department policy in 4-H spaces.