(pictured above) 2026 Smith County 4-H Forestry Judging Competitors L to R: Russell Hodges, Ameila Hodges, Kyler Yerge, Luke Chartier, and Colten Yerge
On Friday, August 21, 2026, five Smith County 4-H’ers competed in the 2026 Central Region 4-H Forestry Judging Contest, which was held at the Wilson County Fair – Tennessee State Fair as part of the Year of Forestry celebration. Each of our 4-H’ers placed in the Top 10 in their age division!
In the Junior Division, Colten Yerge placed 2nd individually, and Russell Hodges placed 5th.
In the Junior High Division, Kyler Yerge placed 3rd individually, and Amelia Hodges placed 10th.
In the Senior High Division, Luke Chartier placed 2nd individually.
During the 4-H Forestry Judging competition, 4-H’ers are asked to correctly identify 20 different species of trees, 10 common insects or examples of their damage, and 10 diseases that can affect trees and the health of our forests. Competitors are also required to measure trees using a Biltmore stick, accurately estimate distances by pacing, and know how to use a compass.
We are so proud of these 4-H members for their dedication and commitment to learning more about the world around them and embracing the great outdoors as a classroom! 4-H Forestry Judging helps students learn about nature and practice their critical thinking and decision-making skills. It can also expose them to and prepare them for future careers in the natural resources sector.
Special thanks to former National 4-H Forestry Judging competitors Emmy Bibbings and Owen Meeks for helping with practices this year. It is so special to see our more experienced 4-H’ers give back and pass their knowledge on to the next generation!
If you would like to learn more about the 4-H Forestry Judging program or any of the many exciting opportunities that 4-H can offer our local youth, please contact Rachel Petty at 615-735-2900 or rpetty@utk.edu.
Smith County 4-H’ers Colten Yerge and Luke Chartier carefully examine a leaf sample during the 2026 Central Region 4-H Forestry Judging Competition.
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