Decatur County 4-H Forestry Judging Team Members at the 4-H Southwest Forestry Field Day Competition.
Back row L-R: Madison Patrick, Autumn Wiggins, Scott Ross Hayes, and Skye Clements
Front row L-R: Luke Clements, Frankie Doss, and Everett Patrick
The Decatur County 4-H Forestry Judging Team recently competed in the Southwest District 4-H Forestry Field Day, held on September 15, 2026, at Reed Bingham State Park in Cook County, Georgia.
The Senior team consisting of Scott Ross Hayes, Skye Clements, Madison Patrick, and Autumn Wiggin, earned 1st place in the team competition. In individual results, Scott Ross Hayes placed as High Senior Individual with Autumn Wiggins earning 2nd place Individual and Skye Clements taking 3rd place Individual. Representing Decatur County 4-H in the Junior division were Luke Clements, Frankie Doss, and Everett Patrick. They were the 3rd place Junior Division team.
Forestry Judging is a rigorous 4-H competition that challenges youth to develop skills used by professional foresters. Participants learn to identify up to 70 tree species found in Georgia, recognize common insects and diseases that impact our forests, and sharpen their pacing and compass skills.
Using specialized forestry tools, 4-H’ers apply these skills to estimate timber volume and gain hands-on experience in forest management. Forestry Judging gets youth outdoors while helping them understand how forests provide valuable wood products, wildlife habitat, clean air, and scenic beauty.
Decatur County 4-H team members studied, practiced, and worked diligently to strengthen their skills and put the 4-H Motto into action: “Making the Best Better.”
For more information on Decatur County 4-H activities or events, contact the Decatur County Cooperative Extension Office at 248-3033 or check our website at www.ugaextension.com/decatur.
