Wildlife and Forestry

Wildlife Judging offers a unique opportunity for students to gain deeper understanding about the natural world, and develop real-world skills in wildlife identification, habitat management, and conservation. Students learn to recognize wildlife based off of several factors, including tracks, food sources, scat, and sound, and practice how to manage land to support various wildlife populations. This hands-on experience not only builds knowledge of ecology and animal behavior, but also prepares for potential careers in wildlife management, conservation and environmental science.

Any 4th – 12th grade 4-H member may participate in wildlife judging for free – no prior experience required!

To Join:

  1. Sign up for Williamson County 4-H here: https://tiny.utk.edu/joinwilco4h
  2. Register for wildlife judging: https://tiny.utk.edu/WilcoWildlifeJudging

Regional Wildlife Judging Contest:

Any 4th – 12th grade student with Williamson County 4-H may compete.

Date: May 12, 2026

Location: TBA

Thursday, March 19, 2026

Thursday, March 26, 2026

Thursday, April 2, 2026

Thursday, April 9, 2026

Thursday, April 16, 2026

Thursday, April 23, 2026

Thursday, May 7, 2026

Time: 5:30 – 7:00PM

Location: Ag Expo Park, 4215 Long Lane, Franklin, TN 37064 unless otherwise noted.

Spend two days working with the land from multiple angles! Evaluate wildlife habitat, make real management decisions, and transform raw timber into a functional structure alongside a professional timber framing crew.

Students will:

  • Assess wildlife habitat using real field evaluation methods
  • Identify limiting factors impacting wildlife populations
  • Make and defend habitat management recommendations
  • Understand land use tradeoffs and decision-making
  • Learn wood types, grain, and material properties
  • Practice basic joinery, including mortise & tenon
  • Explore how forests become usable building materials
  • Contribute to building a real timber-framed project

Grade Level: Rising 6th – 12th

There are only 15 spots available for this class! Spots are first come, first served. Spots are not fully reserved until parents complete registration and payment.

Cost: $35

Register by July 1, 2026: https://tiny.utk.edu/wilco4hclasses

Date: Tuesday, July 14 – Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Time: 9:00AM – 3:00PM

Location: Williamson County Ag Expo Park – 4215 Long Lane, Franklin, TN 37064

Please Note: Students will need to bring a sack lunch.


Wildlife and Forestry classes explore various wildlife, plant science, hydrology, and ecology topics with leaders in the wildlife and conservation space. From understanding feather structure, to plant biology, fishing strategies, and more, students will develop a love for the natural world and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Fall 2025 classes will not be a repeat of Spring 2025.

How do I sign up?

1

Review Class Details

Please read through the eligibility, dates, and class policies closely! This information is important, especially since we cannot accommodate refunds!

2

Pay for Your Class

Once you’re ready, click the button above to pay for your class so your spot will be held. Please make sure you fully complete payment and receive a receipt to your email! All classes are nonrefundable.

What is 4-H?

4-H is a youth development organization dedicated to hands-on educational programming and offers a unique blend of learning and fun! 4-H instills essential life skills like recordkeeping and responsibility, setting your student up for success in academics and beyond. With access to college scholarships and leadership roles, 4-H empowers youth to thrive as future leaders. 4-H’ers get many opportunities to exercise citizenship, which fosters a sense of community and global awareness and nurtures well-rounded individuals.

Through fun, educational experiences and the lifelong friendships forged within the 4-H community, your child will grow both academically and personally, laying a strong foundation for a bright and promising future!

Interested in more classes with Extension?



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