4-H Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Program
Location:
Typically held in person, rotating to a different U.S. state or Canadian province each July (national contest). State-level contests are hosted locally.
Cost:
Varies by state or province; often minimal or covered by sponsoring counties or schools. Team and individual registration policies depend on the state’s 4‑H or FFA chapter
Contest Date:
State-level contests are scheduled throughout spring/early summer depending on state. The national contest is typically held in late July (e.g. last full week of July).
Application Deadlines:
Deadlines vary by local/state coordinator.
Eligibility:
Open to 4‑H or FFA members aged approximately 14–18 (junior/senior divisions). Teams consist of 3–4 members; individuals may compete if a team is unavailable. Home-schoolers may also participate.
WHEP is a hands‑on environmental education competition in which youth learn wildlife biology, habitat assessment, management practices, and ecological concepts. Participants rotate through identification stations and knowledge challenges, analyze aerial photos, develop wildlife management plans, and present them either in writing or orally. The event emphasizes knowledge along with life skills such as teamwork, communication, decision‑making, and leadership. Winning state senior teams can advance to the national invitational contest.
Please note: This information is compiled from publicly available sources and may change from year to year. Dates, locations, fees, and other details are subject to updates—please verify all information directly on the official competition website before applying.