This is rabbit life in 4-H

Autumn Peterson has been a part of the Carlton County Fair for more than half her life. The Wrenshall resident started with poultry and goats at the age of 8; this year she brought only rabbits.

The showing process is a combination of skill on the part of the exhibitor, and an assessment of the rabbit's physical qualities.

The judge observes the exhibitor's ability to show they have knowledge of the rabbit, and will also compare the rabbit's physical appearance to what is normal for that particular breed of rabbit.

Better ribbons are given when the exhibitor demonstrates knowledge of the rabbit and the rabbit is a healthy representation of its breed.

Part of the goal of 4-H is to help young exhibitors learn and improve from year to year.

The rabbit show starts with the Cloverbuds, 4-H members in kindergarten through the second grade. They have older members help them with the judging process, acting as handlers for the animals.

A huge part of exhibiting animals at the fair is taking care of them "every day from very early to late at night, fulfilling their every need," Peterson said.

She enjoys the process, explaining that it is worth it to show and see the progress each year, especially the showmanship. In fact, Peterson got Grand Champion in rabbit showmanship this year, qualifying her to exhibit at the State Fair through 4-H, although she isn't going to enter.

As one of the more than 135 4-H exhibitors this year, it marked Peterson's 10th time exhibiting with 4-H. Peterson got into 4-H and the fair because of her family, which also shows animals at the county fair.

Now 18, Peterson is reaching the end of her years in 4-H. She intends to continue for one more year, and then will be too old to participate.

Peterson will not stop exhibiting rabbits, though. She plans to enter them in open class even after she is unable to participate through 4-H.