Iowa 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl Builds Skills and Future Farm Leaders

By Andi Anderson

The 2026 Iowa 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl brought together young participants from different counties to test their knowledge and skills in dairy science. A total of 34 youth from Delaware, Dubuque, Fayette, and Allamakee counties participated in the event held at Starmont Community Schools in Arlington.

The quiz bowl included fast-paced rounds where students answered questions about dairy nutrition, animal anatomy, herd health, and current industry practices. The competition helped participants apply what they have learned in real-life agricultural situations. It also encouraged teamwork, quick thinking, and effective communication.

In the senior division, participants competed for a chance to represent Iowa at the National 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl. This national event will take place in November at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, Kentucky.

Celine Beggs-Shoemaker, Iowa 4-H animal science program specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, highlighted the importance of such programs. She said, “The Dairy Quiz Bowl is more than just a competition. It gives young people a chance to build confidence, strengthen critical thinking skills and apply what they are learning in real-world situations within the dairy industry. Experiences like this help youth grow as communicators, teammates and future leaders in agriculture.”

Teams were recognized for their performance in three divisions. In the junior division, Delaware County 1 team became champion, while Dubuque County secured second place. In the intermediate division, Dubuque County won first place, followed by Delaware County 1. In the senior division, Delaware County emerged as champions, and Fayette County placed as reserve champions.

Individual knowledge was also tested through a written exam conducted before the quiz rounds. These scores helped determine team rankings and added to overall results. Top-performing individuals were recognized across all divisions for their strong performance.

The success of the event was made possible through the support of volunteers, coaches, and agricultural organizations. Support from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, the Department of Animal Science, and the Iowa 4-H Foundation played an important role in organizing the program.

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