MORRIS COUNTY — A speckled white rabbit, a pair of chickens and two guinea pigs accompanied a half-dozen Morris County 4-H Club members to the Morris County Commissioners Work Session this week, where the youth shared their experiences in the 4-H program and invited the commissioners to attend the annual Morris County 4-H Fair, scheduled for July 24-26 in Mount Olive.
By all accounts, the animals stole the show, starting with 4-H Club member Khloe Terrazas lifting Luna the Lionhead rabbit out of her carrying case. After introductions, Khloe held the leash as Luna hopped around the room, delighting commissioners and greeting attendees gathered in the Knox Meeting Room.
“A group of dedicated 4-H club members, along with their rabbit, chickens and guinea pigs, joined us at our work session to invite us to their fair at the end of July. Yet their visit turned out to be both inspiring and impressive as they described healthy living, shared stories about their animals, discussed what they’ve learned and explained how they’re contributing to their community,” said Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw. “Meeting these motivated young people striving to make a positive impact was truly uplifting, especially in challenging times. Both the children and the 4-H program are exceptional.”
View a photo gallery of 4-H members and their animals.
The annual Morris County 4-H Fair showcases the work, knowledge and skills developed by the county’s 4-H youth members. The 2026 fair will be held at High View Farms and will feature animal displays, hands-on activities, entertainment and other traditional country fair attractions.
During the 2025-26 program year, more than 240 youth participated in 25 Morris County 4-H clubs, supported by more than 80 volunteers. In addition to clubs, the 4-H program offers multi-session events and stand-alone workshops that are open to all. Youth in kindergarten through one year out of high school are eligible to attend.
“Many people are familiar with 4-H ‘s animal science and agriculture background but we also participate in many project areas such as STEM, creative arts, hobbies and more,” said club member Raima Bera. “Through these clubs, members develop important life skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork and care for their communities.”
The 4-H members recommended several fair highlights, including the watermelon-eating contest, pickup basketball at the Teen Council booth, the art show and the small animal tent, where guinea pigs Brownie and Nugget will be on display among many others.
High View Farms is located at 416 Sand Shore Rd. in Mount Olive. Admission to the fair is free. A donation of $5 per car is requested which supports program activities. A free hayride shuttle will be offered from the parking lot up the hill to the fair. Fair sponsorships are still available. Learn more about the 4-H Fair by clicking here.
4-H Clubs are free and open to youth in kindergarten through one year out of high school. The program is part of Rutgers Cooperative Extension, the university’s outreach arm to the community and a collaboration with the New Jersey Department of Agriculture. The organization’s goal is to help distinct populations statewide to adapt to a rapidly changing society, improve lives and nourish communities through educational programs that are based in science. Learn more about Morris County 4-H by clicking here.
