Columbia and Greene County 4-H enrollment has officially opened for the 2026–2027 program year, offering nearly six million youth nationwide opportunities in animal science, STEM, and community service. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Columbia and Greene Counties reported that families can register children to participate through volunteer-led clubs or as independent members.
Annual Dues and Payment Methods Set at Fifteen Dollars
Members must pay an annual fee of $15 per individual or $30 per family. Cash and checks are accepted directly by the program, while payments processed through PayPal incur an additional $1 fee, according to ccecolumbiagreene.org. The organization waives these fees for military families and in cases of financial hardship for those who submit a written request in lieu of payment.
Returning Members Must Submit Dues by December 1
Paperwork and dues for returning members are due by Tuesday, December 1, 2026, or before participating in any new program year activity. New members face a different timeline, with paperwork required within 30 days of attending their first club meeting and strictly before joining any county, regional, or state event.
Fair Exhibit Restrictions Take Effect in June
Youth enrolling after June 1, 2026, face strict limitations on their summer exhibition schedule. Those who sign up after that date cannot enter exhibits for evaluation at the Altamont Fair, the Columbia County Fair, or the New York State Fair. Program managers note that participants work on projects independently or inside clubs to prepare for these traditional agricultural showcases.
Program Manager Contact Information for Registration
Sara Poggi-Decker serves as the 4-H Program Manager for the two counties. Families seeking enrollment details or hoping to discuss club options can contact Poggi-Decker by email at sp883@cornell.edu or by calling (518) 622-9820 extension 107.
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