As the 2026 show season approaches, 4-H livestock exhibitors in Rice County and across Minnesota must be aware of the updated animal identification and quality assurance requirements. This guide provides essential information for ensuring compliance and a successful exhibition experience, focusing on proper procedures and the importance of animal welfare.
Understanding Animal Identification Requirements for 2026
The Minnesota 4-H Animal Science program emphasizes accurate and timely identification of all participating animals. For 2026, specific guidelines are in place to streamline the process and ensure that all exhibitors are well-informed.
Key Resources for Animal ID
- 2026 Minnesota 4-H Animal Science Identification Requirements: This document outlines the state-level mandates for animal identification, including detailed explanations of tagging and ID procedures.
- State 4-H Animal Science Guidelines: The official state guidelines provide a comprehensive overview of all requirements for animal projects.
- Animal Tagging/ID Help Guide: This practical guide offers step-by-step instructions on the PROPER tagging and ID procedures, highlighting what is NOT ACCEPTABLE, especially concerning new RFID tag requirements.
- Animal Ownership Requirements and Clarifications: This resource clarifies specifics regarding animal ownership for exhibitors.
- Project-Specific Information: Detailed information is available for various projects, including Market Beef (beef steers, market heifers, dairy steer), Sheep (Wether Dam information), Dog, and Horse projects. Families will receive county-wide livestock letters with further details.
Livestock Quality Assurance and Ethics (LQA&E)
Minnesota 4-H is committed to promoting livestock quality assurance and animal science ethics. Participation in LQA&E training is mandatory for all youth exhibiting livestock at the state fair in categories such as beef, dairy, sheep, swine, poultry, rabbits, meat goat, dairy goat, and llama.
Re-certification and Eligibility
Youth who were certified in person in 2023 or earlier must re-certify in 2026. Certification is required for state fair grade/age-eligible youth (6th grade and above) and must be completed before their home county fair qualifying show. In Rice County, this deadline is Monday, July 20.
Training Options
Two primary training options are available:
- Face-to-Face Training: A 3-hour livestock quality assurance and ethics training offered by Minnesota 4-H at various locations statewide. This certification is valid for three fair seasons.
- Online Training: A 1-hour youth quality care of animals training available via distance learning. This certification is valid for one fair season and costs $12 (this fee covers the national training system).
Upcoming LQA&E Training Sessions (2026)
While Rice County will not offer an in-person session, training opportunities in neighboring counties are available:
- Waseca County: Saturday, February 28, 9 am-12 pm at NRHEG Jr/Sr High School, 306 Ash Ave S, New Richland, MN 56072. This training is free for participants from Freeborn, Rice, Steele, and Waseca Counties, and $15 for others. Registration opens through 4Honline and closes February 20 or when capacity is reached.
- Freeborn County: Saturday, April 18, 9 am-12 pm at Freeborn County Courthouse. Registration details will be provided later.
These trainings are crucial for fostering responsible animal care, enabling informed decision-making, and ensuring the provision of safe consumer food products. For a comprehensive list of available training options, consult the LQA training page.
Engaging in 4-H Youth Development
The 4-H Youth Development program offers a wide array of hands-on learning experiences for young people of all ages. Through online, small group, and independent learning opportunities, youth can explore topics of interest with the support of dedicated adults. From agronomy to space exploration, creative arts to outdoor adventures, 4-H provides diverse avenues for learning and leadership development. Discover the many ways to participate in 4-H at this link.
For parents and guardians, important information regarding the Cloverbud program is available here.
