More than 45 teams of 4-H youth from across central and southeastern Minnesota participated in the March 5 4-H

Regional Project Bowl, which challenged teams of three to six youths by testing their knowledge on a variety of animal science and agriculture topics, including dairy, dog, horse, llama, poultry, rabbit and more.

Multiple regional competitions are held throughout the state in March, with top teams qualifying to compete in the State Bowl on April 9.

Each competition included junior and senior divisions. Teams were quizzed in one-on-one and open rounds. The first participant with the correct answer earns points for their team.

“Through 4-H Project Bowl, youth build communications skills, and gain deeper knowledge and interest in agriculture-related areas,” said Amber Greeley, Extension 4-H director of State and County Fairs Programs. “These experiences contribute to their success in school, future areas of study in college, and eventual careers.”

Brown County was well-represented by a Senior team of Rachel Portner, Aubree Schmidt, and Kate Schmidt.

The Junior team of Dustin Portner, Jared Portner, Aiden Schroeder and Alex Schroeder also had a successful performance, winning one of its rounds.

Coach Isabella Portner said all the local youths, “did very well and learned a lot.”

To learn more about 4-H Project Bowl and other 4-H opportunities, go to extension.umn.edu or contact the Brown County extension educator, Janessa Palmer, at 507-794-7993.