AMES, Iowa ― Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will host its annual Iowa State Fair Weed Identification Contest on Friday, Aug. 10, from 9-11:30 a.m. in front of the John Deere Agriculture Building. Everyone can participate in one of three divisions: future agronomists (youth), general and professional. Winners will be announced at the 3 p.m. awards ceremony inside the John Deere Agricultural Building.
The top five winners in each division will walk away with a cash prize and a coveted Iowa State Fair ribbon. Future agronomists will identify 20 common Iowa weeds, those in the general division will identify 30 weeds and professionals will identify 30, plus five extra challenging Iowa weeds.
A great test of weed identification skills, this contest brings some of the most knowledgeable weed experts in the state into the competition.
Contestants wanting to brush up before the competition have plenty of time to improve weed identification skills and prepare for the big contest. Study up using the following resources:
- ISU Extension and Outreach’s Weed Identification Field Guide – 2nd Edition (IPM 0003)
- University of Missouri’s Weed ID Guide
- Michigan State University’s Turf Weeds
- University of Illinois’ Weed Identification webpage
2017 Champions
Future Agronomists – Henric Krause
General – Karen Stiles
Professional – Cindy Recker
Credit: www.extension.iastate.edu