Phillips County

Over the past four years, Phillips County has dealt with little-to-no moisture during the winter and spring. This spring and summer things were a little different. With decent amounts of rainfall, the reservoirs stayed full until mid-summer and livestock had water. Our crops had a great deal of growth and were looking good until the grasshoppers moved in. Unfortunately, grasshopper control is still an issue to work on. We're hopeful that next year will be another one with good moisture, healthy animals and productive crops.

2023 Phillips County Fair 

We had a great turnout at this year’s fair. New scheduling featured the small animal show prior to the fair at our local pavilion. 4-H members showed cats, dogs, chickens, ducks and even a guinea pig. The horse show was held successfully at the pavilion,thanks to a great crew of horse project leaders. As the fair commenced, so did the heat. The hog participant numbers were up by 20 from the previous year. Judge Mark King did a fantastic job, taking the time to give each showman constructive criticism, which provided feedback and learning for all the members and families.

Christina Murphy said “I am originally from western Montana. I enjoy the outdoors, riding horses, dirt bikes and snowmobiles. I also spend my time doing leatherwork and playing with my beautiful border collie. What I value most about 4-H and Extension is that we are all here for a common goal: to build the agricultural industry. We do this by getting our kids involved in various projects, community service, and engaging them in activities that can lead to career opportunities. Originally working as an agricultural education teacher and FFA advisor, education is of great importance to me, and I want to continue guiding members to chase their dreams and be involved in the agricultural industry. What I look forward to most about this position is teaching in a different facet, going from teaching in the classroom to teaching members of the community. I want to help members of my community be better stewards of the land and be able to learn new things along the way. I also want to help serve my community by bringing in resources for education that can serve adults and younger members as well.” Welcome to Christina!

The Phillips County Fair hosted a handful of young showmen who entered projects through the open class, ranging from a calf to a swine breeding boar and spare show pigs. Most of the showmen were younger siblings of 4-H members, who were waiting to be old enough to enter the showring. These youngsters did a great job, with a deep desire to do well.