Extension in Murray County
Welcome to Murray County
Murray County partners with Extension to deliver practical education and research you can use at home, at work and in your community.
Contact
mnext-murray@umn.edu or 507-836-6927
Murray County Extension office
UMN Extension, Murray County
mnext-murray@umn.edu
Murray County Courts Building
2848 Broadway Ave, PO Box 57
Slayton, MN 56172-0057
Phone: 507-836-6927
Fax: 507-836-6155
Office hours
Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Kim Hause, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
hausek@umn.edu or 507-836-1144
Kerstin Thoms, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
thoms531@umn.edu
Melissa Runck, Extension Educator, Ag Production Systems (4-H animal science projects/events)
mkrunck@umn.edu or 507-836-1143
Mallory Vos, Extension administrative assistant
carl5049@umn.edu or 507-836-6927
Murray County events
View all events hosted in and near Murray County.
Extension courses and events
Extension provides in-person and online educational events all over Minnesota. Find one to attend.
Murray County news
Read all news from Murray County.
Extension wide news
Read the latest news from all of Extension's programs.
Extension brings Minnesotans together to build a better future through University science-based knowledge, expertise and training. Learn more about Extension by visiting our about page and by browsing this website.
4-H
Summer 2024 is upon us!
Murray County 4-H is offering a wide variety of different summer programs for all age groups to attend!
June 6, 2024 - Robotic AG Challenge
June 10, 2024 - Herbtacular Gardens
June 11, 2024 - The Great Grilled Cheese Challenge
June 24, 2024 - Arts and Crafts - 3 County Fair Ready Projects
June 25, 2024 - Cake Pops
June 26, 2024 - SW Regional Livestock Judging Contest
July 15, 2024 - Power Protectors
July 16, 2024 - The Murray County Fair Amazing Race
SWIM Team - practice happens every Tuesday and Thursday morning in June and July (unless stated otherwise by coaches).
If you are interested in signing up your youth for these events, please check out the Summer Day Camp Flyer. Youth do not need to be a member of 4-H to participate in these great activities!
Click here for a direct link for registration!
Murray County 4-H offers nine community (4-H) clubs, project clubs, 4-H Adventures, and more.
4-H clubs include youth in grades K-13 who meet six times a year or more and offer group learning opportunities, leadership experience, and recreation. Club members are encouraged to select projects to explore and showcase at the county fair. Screened adult volunteers provide leadership to clubs, projects, and events. Clubs are part of the Murray County 4-H Federation, which meets five times annually.
Project clubs (horse for example) may only meet in the summer for practice sessions. 4-H Adventures are short-term programs on specific projects such as robotics. Club membership is not required to participate in 4-H Adventures.
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4-H news in Murray County
Stay informed about all that is happening in Murray County 4-H.
Statewide 4-H news
Learn more about what is happening in Minnesota 4-H.
4-H Youth Development is a hands-on learning program for Minnesota youth. We offer online, small group and independent learning experiences for youth of all ages. In 4-H, youth choose the topic they find interesting and caring adults support their learning and leadership. From agronomy to space exploration and creative arts to outdoor adventures, 4-H has just the right learning experience for young people.
There are many ways to participate in 4-H!
Murray County 4-H Clubs
Club | Area | Leader | Leader |
---|---|---|---|
Badger Lake | Avoca | Dennis & Janet Opdahl | Chris Opdahl |
Bondin Belfast | Fulda | Todd Scripture | Cat Winters |
Cameron | Lake Wilson | Amanda Grogan | |
Chandler Hilltoppers | Chandler | Bethany Rylaarsdam | Carolyn Prins |
Currie Poco-a-Poco | Currie | Sue Schreier | Amy Nepp |
Fenton Friends | Rural Chandler | Aaron & Bridget Kluis | Lydia Diekmann |
Lakers | Rural Balaton | Samantha McClellan | Melissa Kidman |
Prairie Hustlers | Rural Slayton | Christine Larson | Janese Siedschlag |
Slayton Shooting Stars | Slayton | Jessica Doeden, Alyssa Overman | Suzi Gengler |
Horse Club | Slayton - Fairgrounds | Stacy Posthuma | Jody Jackels |
Llama Club | Stacy Overgaauw | Bobbi Jo Gunnink |
There are several ways to join or re-enroll in 4-H.
There are also many ways adults (anyone age 18+) can support youth learning and leading in 4-H.
Want to learn about volunteering with the 4-H Youth Development Program?
Visit the Volunteering with 4-H page to learn more about how volunteers positively impact youth and the community.
Contact your 4-H Extension Educator to learn about specific roles available in your community.
Ready to become a screened Minnesota 4-H volunteer?
Visit the Apply to become a 4-H volunteer page to begin the application and screening process.
Club leader resources
Volunteer resources
It's that time of year again to start thinking about county fair and getting your animal science projects entered into 4-HOnline! Below you will find helpful links and letters to guide you through the animal ID process for 2023.
Market beef and dairy steers
Market beef and dairy steers IDs are due at 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 15, 2024. No IDs will be allowed to be uploaded after that time. Below is a link to a copy of the beef ID letter that was sent out to families.
Murray County 4-H market beef and dairy steer ID letter
Horse
Horse IDs are due at 11:59 p.m. on May 15, 2024. No IDs will be allowed to be uploaded after that time. Below is a link to a copy of the horse ID letter.
Dog
Dog IDs are due at 11:59 p.m. on May 15, 2024. No IDs will be allowed to be uploaded after that time. Below is a link to a copy of the dog ID letter.
Multi-species (beef, sheep, swine, dairy, dairy goat, market goat, rabbit, llama/ alpaca and poultry)
Animal science projects, with the exception of market beef and dairy steer that were due on Feb. 15, 2024, IDs are due at 11:59 p.m. on May 15, 2024. No IDs will be allowed to be uploaded after that time.
Murray County 4-H multi-species ID letter
Below you will find each species' information sheet for 2024. Please make sure to read your species sheet as there were many updates this year for each species!
- 2024 Adopt a Lamb/ Lottery Lamb Letter
- 2024 Dairy Goat information sheet
- 2024 Dairy information sheet
- 2024 Dog information sheet
- 2024 Horse information sheet
- 2024 Llama - Alpaca information sheet
- 2024 Meat Goat information sheet
- 2024 Poultry information sheet
- 2024 Rabbit information sheet
- 2024 Sheep information sheet
- 2024 Swine information sheet
For more information, please refer to the 4-H animal ID page.
We know registration/fair entry can be confusing. Don't stress, we are here to help! Please don't hesitate to reach out to the Murray County Extension Office if you have questions.
2024 Murray County Premium List
2024 Murray County 4-H Fair Schedule
Murray County 4-H Food Stand is offering "punch cards," available for purchase before or during the fair! These come in $20 increments and will be stored at the Eatstand! This is our way of making the fair more "convenient" that way you don't have to worry about losing them throughout the day or keeping cash on hand.
Animal ID
- Due Feb 15, 2024, for market beef (beef steers, market heifers and dairy steers)
- Due May 15, 2024, for beef, dairy, dairy goat, dog, horse, llama - alpaca, meat goat, poultry, rabbit, sheep and swine.
- Cloverbud ID information does not need to be included in 4HOnline.
Fair Entry (Open June 1, 2024 - July 15, 2024)
- Fair Entry Instructions
- Fair Entry is Due July 15, 2024
Minnesota State Fair
Kim Hause, Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
hausek@umn.edu or 507-836-1144
Melissa Runck, Extension Educator, Ag Production Systems (4-H animal science projects/events)
mkrunck@umn.edu or 507-836-1143
Mallory Vos, Extension Staff
carl5049@umn.edu or 507-836-6927
Federation, ambassadors and executive council
- 2023-2024 Federation Officers, Ambassadors & Executive Council
- Murray County 4-H Federation Constitution & Bylaws
4-H records
Livestock project/animal science resources
- 4-H Animal Science Project Information
- 2024 Livestock Encampment Premium Book
- 2024 General Encampment Premium Book
Club officer resources
- Club Treasurer Workbook
- Club Secretary Workbook
- Club Meeting Minutes Worksheet
- Club Committee Planning Sheet
Other Murray County 4-H resources
- 2024-2025 Murray County 4-H Calendar
- 2024 Murray County 4-H - Competitive Events: Deadlines, Consequences & Exemptions
- Member Exemption Form (for missed deadlines)
- Murray County 4-H Family Handbook
- 4-H Member Code of Conduct
- Murray County Fair Website
- 2024 Murray County 4-H Premium List
4-H Online and FairEntry
Welcome to Murray County 4-H!! We are so happy to have you join us! The following links may be helpful for your family as you navigate this new journey!
New member newsletters
Murray County 4-H has started a new member newsletter for our new families to help them navigate being a new member in the 4-H world. Newsletter will be sent to new families every other month starting in October and families will receive them for one year. After a year you will automatically be taken off. If after a year you wish to still receive them please let the Extension Office know. Newsletters are emailed to families. If you wish to receive a paper copy instead, please let us know, and we would be more than happy to mail it to you.
Gifts support 4-H youth development in Murray County, and local programming coordinated by Murray County 4-H Federation.
Fundraising is about to begin!
Your club leaders will have your packets unless requested otherwise.
Forms are due to your club leaders by Feb. 16, 2024.
Agriculture
Murray County's economy is based on agriculture, both crop and livestock production. Corn and soybeans are the primary crops grown in Murray County. Livestock production includes beef, dairy, goats, swine and sheep.
Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) and Secure Beef Supply Plan program provides those who work with beef cattle the opportunity to learn more about best management practices, herd health and animal stewardship. The program's goal is to create a better quality beef supply and increase consumer confidence.
Producers need to participate in only one training option to become BQA certified. Only one person from each operation is required to be certified to ensure the entire operation follows the BQA standards. However, everyone who handles and manages fed cattle is encouraged to become BQA certified. Certification is good for three years.
To find out more about Minnesota's BQA certification requirements, visit the Minnesota Beef Council site.
Statewide agriculture events
Agriculture conferences, in-person events and online courses are offered all year around the state.
Agriculture news in Murray County
Find the latest on Extension agricultural research and news you can use on your farm from local experts.
Statewide news and blogs
- Agricultural Business Management News - Business and financial resources for farmers.
- Beef News - Beef industry featured events, farm safety and animal health.
- Dairy News - Dairy industry featured events, farm safety and animal health.
- Fruit and Vegetable News - Local production and marketing of fruit and vegetable crops in Minnesota.
- Minnesota Crop News - Emerging issues affecting Minnesota row crops and forages.
Ag Marketing groups meet in Slayton on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Extension Educator David Bau coordinates the meetings. To join a group or for more information call 507-836-6927 or email carl5049@umn.edu
Private pesticide applicator re-certification in 2024 has changed. There are four options this year: mail-in exam, online exam, live online workshops via Zoom, or online self-paced canvas course.
Beef Quality Assurance & Secure Beef Supply trainings are scheduled in February and March.
Farmland Rental Rates in Minnesota including sample leases.
Melissa Runck is an Extension Educator in ag production systems; her time is split between Murray and Pipestone Counties. Contact Melissa for assistance with animal science, crop production, horticulture, and ag business questions.
Melissa Runck, Local Extension educator, Ag Production Systems
mkrunck@umn.edu or 507-836-1143 (Murray County)
Gardening
Murray County Master Gardeners planted and maintain two perennial flower gardens on public property in Slayton. They host an annual summer garden tour in July, showcasing several Murray County homeowners' gardening talents. Master Gardeners have conducted summer gardening projects for area youth and answer horticulture questions for county residents.
Gifts support local programming coordinated by Murray County Master Gardener volunteers.
Gardening events in Murray County
Find gardening learning opportunities online and near you.
Statewide gardening events
Find out about the Master Gardener Volunteer core course or attend other events offered throughout the year.
Gardening news in Murray County
Find the latest gardening tips and news you can use in your own back yard from local experts.
Yard and Garden News
Gardening tips and emerging issues affecting Minnesota.
Master Gardener volunteers are University of Minnesota-trained volunteers who educate the public about a variety of horticulture subjects using current research-based resources. This educational effort is designed to enhance quality of life and promote good stewardship of the environment.
Master Gardener volunteers complete many hours of volunteer work each year, providing a valuable in-kind contribution to Minnesota.
County Extension Educator Melissa Runck provides identification and answers to tree, landscape, insect, and gardening problems.
mkrunck@umn.edu or 507-836-1143
Murray County Master Gardeners
David Bau, Slayton, Master Gardener coordinator
507-836-6124, bauxx003@umn.edu
Gaylene Chapman, Lake Wilson
507-879-3509, cornergarden@iw.net
Colleen Gengler, Slayton
507-360-0624, dcgeng78@gmail.com
Mona Henkels, Fulda
507-425-3117, mhenkels@centurytel.net
Betty Kassel, Walnut Grove
507-859-2741, gecko@mvtvwireless.com
Joan Lanoue
jlanoue1000@gmail.com
Matthew Meier, Fulda
507-220-9038, okdjmeier@yahoo.com
Marilyn Moger, Fulda
507-425-3137, mogeram@swwnet.com
Jolene Nelson, Hadley
507-836-6373, circlenranch@hotmail.com
Kathy Schwartz, Slayton
507-836-8304, dkschwtz@nobleswildblue.com
Patricia White, Westbrook
507-274-5119
Health and nutrition
Extension offers a variety of educational programs about nutrition and health that are open to families and individuals of all ages who are eligible for benefits through the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or who meet Extension’s program income guidelines.
Programs are offered in community settings such as food shelves, schools, community centers and public housing sites. The programs are free to all individuals and families who meet income guidelines, and may be offered in multiple languages, depending on the audience needs and availability of educators.
Statewide health and nutrition events
Join Extension educators and community partners in events that encourage health, wellbeing and good nutrition.
Family News
Find information that helps families make informed decisions leading to better health and wellbeing.
Use the Real Life, Good Food website to find recipes, cooking tips and physical activity ideas for a healthier life.
Sustainable communities
Extension engages Minnesotans to strengthen the social, civic, economic and technological capacity of their communities. We help create vibrant communities and enhance skills and knowledge in economics, leadership and civic engagement, and tourism.
Check our community research page for reports on county and community-focused topics relating to local economics, retaining businesses, growing retail markets, developing tourism, and more.
Local programs can be offered in collaboration with local community organizations and government agencies. Current programs include: Minnesota Agricultural and Rural Leadership (MARL)
Contact an educator in your area for consultation, guidance and conversation about your community.
Minnesota is a great place to explore, understand and conserve the natural landscape. Extension education, volunteer and community science programs encourage people to become stewards of Minnesota’s public and private lands.
Volunteer. Natural resources volunteers track invasive species, detect forest pests and count native bees, among many other activities. You can also study to become a Minnesota Master Naturalist.
Extension's Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP) connect Greater Minnesota communities and University of Minnesota knowledge and resources to support local sustainability projects. Working in partnership, RSDP supports community-driven projects in four focus areas: agriculture and food systems, clean energy, natural resources and resilient communities. Projects are supported by boards made up of local community members and University faculty and staff. Learn more about RSDP’s recent work in Murray County and neighboring communities, and how to submit a project idea.
Statewide community development events
Join us at an event in your community.
Statewide natural resources events
Find opportunities to learn about the natural environment, how to care for your forest lands, and how you and your family can get out and explore nature around the state and in your own backyard.
Community development news
Find information on community-focused news.
My Minnesota Woods
Find out how to take care of your trees and enjoy Minnesota's beautiful woodlands.
Natural Resources News
From preserving our wetlands to combating invasive species, read about protecting and enjoying nature.
RSDP Happenings
Learn more about community-driven sustainability projects happening across Minnesota.