By Andi Anderson
The 2025 Iowa 4-H Dairy Judging Contest brought together youth from across the state at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines on August 6.
Participants evaluated eight classes of dairy cattle, presented oral reasons to justify their placings, and applied critical thinking skills while gaining deeper knowledge of the dairy industry.
“Dairy judging helps youth build confidence, sharpen communication and deepen their understanding of dairy cattle selection and management,” said Celine Beggs-Shoemaker, 4-H animal science education specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
In the senior division, Delaware County Senior Team 1 claimed the overall championship with members Ford Domeyer, Caden Kremer, Aiden Kruse, and Tyler Hoeger. Winneshiek County placed second, followed by Allamakee County in third.
Individually, Ford Domeyer took first place overall, with teammates Kremer and Bianka Ronnebaum placing second and third. Delaware County also earned top honors in several breed categories, including Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein, and Jersey.
The junior division was led by the Delaware/Dubuque County Team of Adley Rahe, Cooper Schulte, Carson Rauen, and Tyler Arnold. Allamakee County Junior Team 1 placed second, while Scott County finished third. Individually, Cooper Schulte of Delaware County earned first place overall, with Zach Danhof of Allamakee County and Adley Rahe of Dubuque County finishing close behind.
Top senior participants will advance to represent Iowa 4-H at the National 4-H Dairy Judging Contest during the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin, later this year.
The contest is coordinated by Iowa 4-H Youth Development in partnership with the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach dairy team. Sponsors included state breed associations and the Iowa State University Dairy Science Club.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle