Community members, 4-H clubs, scout troops and school science classes are invited to design and construct a catapult to propel pumpkins into a field. Contestants will be judged on distance, accuracy and most innovative/creative design. Pumpkins will be provided by the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center or its sponsors.

Design of Catapult:
The catapult can be of any design as long as it is constructed of common materials, which allow it to operate in a safe manner. It must be capable of launching a projectile weighing at least 4 pounds. The machines will be inspected prior to the competition by a panel of judges who will determine the compliance with guidelines. No motors, engines, pneumatic assist, compressed air, stream or any other compressed gasses, hydraulics or ignitable substances may be used or attached in any way.

The mechanics of the launch mechanism must be constructed in such a way as to allow for a safe release of the throw arm, and shall not in any way endanger the well-being of either the contestants or the audience.

Actual operation of the catapult must be undertaken by participants over the age of 18. Hard hats and safety goggles must be worn at all times.

Size and Complexity:
The catapult must be of no greater size and weight than what allows for a team of four to easily carry from the staging area to the launch pad in two minutes or less. If any last minute assembly is required in the launch area, it must be completed within three minutes or less upon arrival at the launch pad.

Safety:
Safety must be observed at all times. If the judges determine that entrants are not competing and launching in the required manner, they shall be eliminated from competition. Entrants shall indemnify and hold harmless the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, its officers, directors, employees and agents, and the County of Suffolk, its employees and elected representatives, from and against any and all claims, demands, causes of action or liability resulting from injuries to any person or persons, including death, or damage to any property arising out of an negligent act or omission by the entrants with the activities described herein.

Audience members will be contained at a distance of 100 feet from the launch site. All members of the catapult teams will sign waivers and/or release forms.

For more information, or to obtain an entry form please contact Vicki Fleming, Agricultural Education Program Manager at (631)852-4602.