By Allison Peck
Listen to the full interview with Caitlyn Jacobson and Liam Pederson on our Kubota Podcast
North Platte, Neb. - As Nebraska 4-H Member Month gets underway, local families have a chance to learn more about the wide range of opportunities available through 4-H in Lincoln, Logan and McPherson counties.
Caitlyn Jacobson, 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator with University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension, said February is an ideal time for families to explore what 4-H has to offer. An open house is scheduled for Feb. 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the extension office, 348 W. State Farm Road. Families can stop by to ask questions, meet leaders and learn how to get involved.
One local 4-H member already making the most of those opportunities is Liam Pederson. The youth member is involved in multiple project areas, including dog, speech, horticulture and shooting sports.
In horticulture, members grow and care for plants, often starting in a greenhouse before bringing their entries to the county fair. Plants are judged and awarded ribbons based on quality. In shooting sports, youth work with certified instructors to learn safety and skill development. But for Pederson, the dog project stands out as his favorite.
He competes in agility with his Portuguese water dog, Rey. Agility courses require dogs to complete obstacles such as tunnels, jumps, an A-frame and a pause box. Pederson said the excitement of competition — especially waiting for results — is one of the best parts.
At the 2025 Lincoln County Fair, Pederson earned the title of “Top Dog” in his first year competing. Champions are determined by tallying points from ribbon placings, which range from white to purple. The competitor with the highest total is named champion.
Pederson said his bond with Rey began when his family brought the dog home from Missouri while he was in second grade. After earning the AKC Good Citizen Award on their second attempt, he decided to expand into 4-H competition. Now entering his third year in 4-H, he hopes to continue competing at both county and state fair levels.
Jacobson said youth like Pederson benefit from strong volunteer leadership within each project area. Local club leaders and certified instructors guide families through their first year and help youth develop skills as they grow.
In addition to project areas, 4-H members can participate in the annual communication contest. The contest includes prepared speeches, illustrated presentations, public service announcements and video communication entries. Jacobson said the program is designed to build confidence and life skills, with options for youth who may prefer behind-the-scenes roles rather than speaking live in front of an audience.
The Logan and McPherson counties communication contest will be held March 21 at Gandy Church. The Lincoln County contest is set for April 25 at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center. Registration is currently open through the extension office website, Facebook page or by calling the office directly.
Youth ages 5 to 7 as of Jan. 1 may participate as Clover Kids. Standard 4-H membership is open to youth ages 8 to 18.
Pederson encourages other youth to consider joining.
“4-H is really fun,” he said. “You make a lot of new friends. You get to compete.”
Jacobson said 4-H provides a safe space for young people to build critical life skills that will serve them long after their project work is complete.
Families interested in learning more are encouraged to attend the Feb. 17 open house or contact the extension office for additional information.