Attention all weed identification enthusiasts! The annual Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Iowa State Fair Weed Identification Contest is back, giving participants of all ages a chance to showcase their knowledge of common weeds found in Iowa. The contest will take place on Friday, Aug. 11, from 9-11:30 a.m. in front of the John Deere Agriculture Building.
Divided into three categories - Future Agronomists, General, and Professional - this competition offers a fun challenge for everyone. Contestants will have the opportunity to identify real weed samples displayed on tabletops and in pots. While scientific names are not required, participants should be familiar with the commonly accepted names of the weeds.
Winners will be announced at the 3 p.m. awards ceremony inside the John Deere Agriculture Building, and the top five winners in each division will receive a cash prize and an esteemed Iowa State Fair ribbon. Additionally, the weed samples from the contest will be exhibited in the lower level of the John Deere Agriculture Building throughout the fair.
Meaghan Anderson, the extension field agronomist and contest organizer, encourages families to participate and put their weed identification skills to the test. With exciting new additions to this year's weed samples, including previously unseen species, contestants are in for an engaging challenge.
For more information about the contest, reach out to Meaghan Anderson visit the Iowa State Fair Contests page online . Get ready to show off your expertise and join the fun at the Iowa State Fair Weed Identification Contest!
Photo Credit: Iowa State Fair
Categories: Iowa, Education, Rural Lifestyle