The Danish system is a method of evaluation where a product or process is evaluated against a set of standards, and recognition is awarded on the degree to which the standard has been met by each competitor.  In Danish system judging, the exhibitors are not judged against each other.  In a “true” Danish system the standard of excellence is the same for everyone regardless of age or experience.  In 4-H, a “modified” Danish system is used that uses standards adjusted according to member's age and years of experience in the project. The Danish system is used in 4-H for 9 through 18 year olds because it is a way to provide recognition to greater numbers of youth who may all be making significant progress in their projects.  The Danish system is considered by National 4-H Policy to be a competitive form of judging and is therefore not to be used for 4-H members under the age of 9.

In Maine 4-H, ribbons traditionally awarded by the Danish system are:

• Blue - for excellence, exceeding the standards
• Red - for good work that meets the expected standard
• White - for work that falls below the expected standard 

In Maine we have not created written standards.  Therefore the standards used in livestock shows are the generally accepted standards for good fitting and showmanship and for animal quality.