Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report, June 23 – 29, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Don McDowell
515-326-1616
don.mcdowell@iowaagriculture.gov

Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

June 23 – 29, 2025

DES MOINES, Iowa (June 30, 2025) – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig commented on the Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report released by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. The report is released weekly April through November. Additionally, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship provides a weather summary each week during this time.

“Last week brought multiple rounds of rain to much of the state, marking the wettest seven days of the growing season thus far. In addition to benefitting the corn and soybeans, the moisture helps to replenish our streams, pastures and hay fields. Corn tassels are also just beginning to show after the recent warm weather, signaling crop development remains on track,” said Secretary Naig. “As July begins, Iowans can expect seasonal temperatures and fewer storm chances – pleasant conditions for a festive and fun Independence Day weekend filled with fireworks, cookouts and outdoor celebrations.”

The weekly report is also available on the USDA’s website at nass.usda.gov.

Crop Report
Precipitation, heavy in some parts of Iowa, reduced days suitable for fieldwork to just 2.7 during the week ending June 29, 2025, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. While beneficial, the wet conditions limited field activities throughout much of the State.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 1 percent very short, 9 percent short, 69 percent adequate and 21 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 2 percent very short, 15 percent short, 70 percent adequate and 13 percent surplus.

Reports of corn starting to silk were received, reaching 3 percent. Corn condition rated 0 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 13 percent fair, 63 percent good and 22 percent excellent. Soybeans blooming reached 22 percent, 3 days ahead of last year and 2 days ahead of normal. There were a few reports of soybeans setting pods. Soybean condition rated 1 percent very poor, 3 percent poor, 19 percent fair, 61 percent good and 16 percent excellent. Iowa’s oat crop reached 90 percent headed with 39 percent turning color. There were scattered reports of oats starting to be harvested. Oat condition rated 0 percent very poor, 2 percent poor, 15 percent fair, 68 percent good and 15 percent excellent.

First cutting of alfalfa hay is mostly complete, while the second cutting reached 30 percent complete. Hay condition rated 81 percent good to excellent. Pasture condition rated 73 percent good to excellent. No unusual livestock conditions were reported.

Weather Summary
Provided by Justin Glisan, Ph.D., State Climatologist, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Iowa experienced the wettest reporting period of the season with widespread two to four inches of above normal rainfall from east-central through southern and western Iowa; only southeastern Iowa was near to slightly below normal. Temperatures also remained unseasonably warm with the statewide average temperature at 76.8 degrees, 3.9 degrees above normal.

Sunny skies and strong southerly winds continued through Sunday (22nd) afternoon as both dewpoint and air temperatures pushed into the 70s and 90s, respectively; the statewide average high was 92 degrees, 10 degrees above normal. Clouds increased over western Iowa into Monday (23rd) morning as a cold front moved through northwestern Iowa with morning lows hovering in the 70s. With ample moisture and temperatures in the 80s and low 90s, thunderstorms blossomed along the cold front from northeast to southwest into the evening hours, producing locally heavy rain and scattered severe wind gusts. Steady rain persisted across southern Iowa where Flash Flood Warnings were issued during the late morning. Daytime temperatures were generally in the upper 70s and low 80s with peeks of sunshine and a brief lull from widespread thunderstorms. Redevelopment of sluggish thunderstorms occurred over Iowa’s southern third around sunset and pushed into west-central Iowa by daybreak on Tuesday (24th) with additional flood warnings issued. Numerous stations from central to southwestern Iowa reported totals over 3.00 inches, with Decatur County stations of Davis City and Grand River collecting 3.05-to-5.00-inch totals, respectively. A wide swath of 1.00-to-3.00-inch totals stretched from south-central to northeast Iowa while lesser amounts were registered northwest; the overall statewide average was 0.82 inch. Portions of western Iowa experienced widespread rainfall beginning on Wednesday (25th) as another system propagated across Iowa, producing some severe straight-line winds along with local flooding in west-central counties. Over 120 stations observed at least an inch with 3.12 inches in Urbandale (Polk County) and 5.57 inches in Massena (Cass County). Amounts of 0.25-0.50 inch were widespread over the southwestern corner.

Thursday (26th) was another severe weather day over Iowa as a cold front transited the Upper Midwest. Afternoon temperatures reached into the upper 80s and low 90s ahead of the surface boundary with thunderstorms firing rapidly from southwest to northeast. Several cells turned severe, with high winds and two weak tornadoes near Corwith (Hancock County) and Lu Verne (Humboldt County). The line of storms pushed into eastern Iowa and finally out of the southwest corner by dawn on Friday (27th). Most Iowa stations received at least 0.50 inch with a west to north-central band of 2.00-4.00 inches; Carroll (Carroll County) observed 2.05 inches with 4.00 inches in Odebolt (Sac County). Clouds gradually cleared through the day with light northwesterly winds and pleasant temperatures in the upper 60s and low 70s. Winds shifted southerly into Saturday (28th) with light rain in northwestern Iowa. Afternoon temperatures pushed back into the upper 80s and low 90s under mostly sunny skies. Conditions quickly changed by midnight in northwest Iowa as a bow echo with severe-warned thunderstorms dropped large hail and strong wind gusts; a 75-mph reading was observed near Cleghorn (Cherokee County). The complex diminished in strength by Sunday (28th) morning with a few stations registering higher rainfall totals; Sioux Center (Sioux County) hit 1.01 inches.

Weekly precipitation totals ranged from 0.25 inch at Fort Madison (Lee County) to 7.13 inches in Massena. The statewide weekly average precipitation was 2.81 inches; the normal is 1.16 inches. Little Sioux (Harrison County) reported the week’s high temperature of 100 degrees on the 22nd, 16 degrees above normal. Iowa Falls (Hardin County) reported the week’s low temperature of 57 degrees on the 28th, four degrees below normal.

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About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Led by Secretary Mike Naig, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship serves the rural and urban residents that call Iowa home. Through its 14 diverse bureaus, the Department ensures animal health, food safety and consumer protection. It also promotes conservation efforts to preserve our land and enhance water quality for the next generation. Learn more at iowaagriculture.gov.

 

 

 

 

 

Road Closure on Graham Avenue, East of Fremont Ave beginning July 1st

The Henry County Engineers Office announces a road closure on Graham Avenue, east of Fremont Avenue beginning Tuesday, July 1st, weather permitting, for crossroad pipe replacement. The work will take approximately three (3) days. Questions and concerns can be answered at 319-385-0762.

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Fourth of July in Southeast Iowa

July 4th is a celebration throughout the nation and Southeast Iowa is prepared to celebrate.

MP

In Mount Pleasant the Parade will begin at 5 pm and pass by the Wright Family Pavillion and behind the grandstands in McMillan Park. At 5:30 you can meet your local heroes as well as enjoy free activities including Trolley Rides, Carousel Rides, Bouncy Houses, and Face Painting until dusk. From there you’ll take a seat and enjoy the fireworks at dark! Food options will be available under Wright Family Pavilion including snacks by Southeast Dance Competition Team and pineapple whip with the Henry County Cattlemen stationed under the grandstands.

MP Golf and Country Club

Also on the 4th, the Mount Pleasant Golf and Country Club will have live music from Linc & the Drifters, food trucks, kids & family fun beginning at 5 PM and open to everyone.

New London

VFW Post 7641 Auxiliary will sponsor a 4th of July Parade “Honoring Our Quilts of Valor” Friday, July 4th at 10 am in New London. The parade grand marshals will be Quilt of Valor recipients. If you’d like to ride the Quilt Of Valor float contact the VFW at 319-367-5009. Top entries in Youth and Adult category will be awarded prizes. Entries may be picked up at the VFW Post home at 802 East McKinley and due back by July 2.

West Burlington

West Burlington will celebrate with a full schedule beginning with a pancake breakfast at the fire department at 6am, family activities, a car show, and live music carrying through to fireworks at 10:01 pm.

Wayland

The city of Wayland is planning breakfast by the Lion’s club at 6:30, the splashpad will be open from 11-7, lunch by the WACO basketball teams from 11 to 1, and fireworks at Dusk.

Morning Sun

In Morning Sun enjoy the mile long parade at 3pm, entertainment at 7, and fireworks at dusk.

Keosauqua

Now heading South, Keosauqua will begin their Fourth of July celebrations with an All you can eat Pancake and Sausage Breakfast at 7, kids’ activities, street dance at 6, and the firework display over the Des Moines River at dark.

 

Have an event in your community you would like to add? Let us know! kiljradio@kilj.com

Youth and High School Summer Sports Camps for Our Local Schools

Summer Sports- Summer vacation is the time to kick up your feet, sit by the pool, and relax after a school year of studying and participating in extra-curricular activities. On the other hand, the summer is also an opportunity to participate in some off-season camps to hone your skills. Here’s a look at some of our local camps.

Mt. Pleasant

Mt. Pleasant will be hosting Panther Hoopla: A Southeast Iowa Basketball Camp from July 16th through the 18th. Coaches will work with the campers in a fun and challenging environment, filled with drills, player development, and competitive games.

The morning session is for 6th through 8th graders, and it runs from 8:30 am to 10:30 am. The afternoon session will go from 1 pm to 3 pm for 3rd through 5th graders. The cost to register is $40 per participant and $60 for a family.

The deadline to register is Wednesday, July 2nd. Make checks payable to Mount Pleasant Community School District. If you have any questions, contact pantherhoopla@gmail.com. A registration form will be provided below.

The Mt. Pleasant Football program will be sponsoring a two-day football camp at the Mapleleaf Athletic Complex for 1st through 8th graders on July 21st and 22nd. Everyone will practice 5 to 6:15 pm, but 1st through 6th graders will be separate from the 7th and 8th graders.

It is $25 to register and the deadline to register to guarantee a shirt is Sunday, July 13th. If you have any questions, you can contact john.bowlin@mtpcsd.org. The registration form will be provided below.

Winfield-Mt. Union

The Winfield-Mt. Union Football Camp will start on August 4th and run through the 6th with 1st through 6th graders going from 7:15 to 8 pm, while the 7th through 12th graders will practice from 5 to 7 pm.

The registration fee is $30, and it is due on the first day of the camp. Each camper will receive a football. The following link will direct you to the registration form: https://forms.gle/m3mMYfkVzXytgQph9

The Winfield-Mt. Union Volleyball Camp starts on August 4th and will run through the 8th with 3rd through 5th graders starting at 11 am and going until 12:30 pm. 6th through 8th graders will practice from 9 am to 11 am and 9th through 12th graders will start the day from 7 am to 9 am.

Each camper will get a t-shirt with the registration cost being $30. Checks can by made payable to WMU volleyball. The following link will take you to the registration form: https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSfBiZA9yrHqpw…/viewform

WACO

The WACO youth volleyball camp is August 4th and 5th from 10 am to noon for 5th through 8th graders. The cost to participate is $35 per athlete. Register by July 23 to ensure the correct t-shirt size. Make the check payable to WACO volleyball. Questions can be directed to Addison.fort@wacocsd.org. The flier will be listed below.

Grades 9th through 12th will have their camp on the same days but from 7:30 am to 9:30 am. The cost and deadlines are the same. The flier will be listed below.

Danville

Danville will be hosting a youth volleyball camp from August 4th through the 6th (only 2nd through 5th graders will be practicing on the 6th). From 11 am to 12:30 pm, the 2nd through 5th graders will be practicing, while the 6th through 8th graders will be going from 1 pm to 3:30 pm.

The last day to register to guarantee a t-shirt is July 18th with the cost landing at $45. The flier will be listed below.

1st through 8th graders will get to hit the gridiron for Danville’s youth football camp from 9 am to 11 am on July 23rd through the 25th. It is $50 to register with July 4th being the last day to register to guarantee a t-shirt. A flier will be listed below.

Fairfield

The hardcourt will be open for boys in grades 4th through 8th in Fairfield from July 14th through the 18th for a basketball camp. All campers will get a t-shirt. It is $45 to register, and they ask to make the checks payable to Fairfield Youth Basketball. The registration will be listed below.

August 6th through the 8th, Fairfield will be hosting a volleyball camp for incoming and current high schoolers. Pre-register by Monday, July 28th, to ensure a t-shirt with the cost to register resting at $40. The camp will be at Fairfield High School. The registration will be listed below.

Mediapolis

The Mediapolis volleyball camp will run from August 4th through the 7th. All girls entering high school will practice from 8 am to 9 am. 3rd through 6th grader will go from 9:30 am to 11 am and 7th through 8th graders will be drilled from 11 am to 12:30 pm.

The cost is $50 per camper (if you are sending more than one child, the second child’s cost will be reduced by $10) and they ask that checks are made payable to the Mediapolis Booster Club.

Campers will receive a t-shirt, a certificate, and there will be daily drawings. Registrations are due by July 18th. If you have any questions, then send an email to steffenere@mepoedu.org. A flier will be listed below.

Wapello

The Wapello Volleyball Camp starts August 6th and runs through the 7th. Practices will range from 9 am to 10:30 am for 6th through 8th graders and 11 am to 12:30 pm for 3rd through 5th graders. Here is the link to register: https://forms.gle/DcxMBtBFFv7Moriv8

More

Stay tuned to KILJ for anymore updates!

Jefferson County Youth Shine in Swine Show at County Fair

Jefferson County, IA–  The Jefferson County Fair swine show brought out the very best in area youth this week, with standout performances across breeding, market, and showmanship classes. Exhibitors from 4-H clubs and FFA chapters across the county showcased their hard work, dedication, and well-conditioned swine projects in a spirited and competitive event.

Breeding Gilt Champions Crowned

In the Purebred Breeding Gilt division, Cylee Johnson of the Future Leaders 4-H club captured first place with her gilt (entry #63). She was followed closely by Sydney Stremsterfer (2nd), Jackson Stremsterfer (3rd), and Konrad Hellweg (4th), all representing strong showings from Jefferson youth.

In the Commercial Breeding Gilt class, Braxton Headley of the Des Moines Ramblers dominated with a purple-ribbon gilt (entry #1082), earning him the title of Grand Champion Breeding Gilt. Cylee Johnson added to her successful showing by taking Reserve Grand Champion Breeding Gilt honors.

Market Hogs Show Exceptional Quality

The Market Swine competition was fierce, with exceptional hogs in all divisions. Rider Robertson emerged as the top exhibitor in the Crossbred Market Gilt class, earning Grand Champion Market Hog with entry #518 from the Des Moines Ramblers. Meanwhile, Ava McArtor secured the Reserve Grand Champion Market Hog title (entry #1021), rounding out an impressive performance by the Ramblers club.

In the Single Source Market Hog division, Jack Sobaski of Packwood Trojans took home Champion Single Source Hog, while Taylor Miller earned Reserve Champion for Fairfield FFA.

In the Market Pen of Three class, Adelyn McDowell from Future Leaders claimed the Champion Pen of Three Hogs, with Rider Robertson taking Reserve Champion Pen honors.

Carcass Class Highlights Market Excellence

Carcass results revealed strong meat quality among Jefferson exhibitors. Kylie Bohrn of Pekin FFA earned top honors as Champion Carcass Hog, with Taylor Miller again showing well, earning Lavender Ribbon 2nd Place.

Youth Excel in Showmanship Rings

Showmanship classes demonstrated the confidence and poise of young livestock handlers. Sydney Stremsterfer earned top honors in Senior Showmanship, while Hope Hellweg won Intermediate Showmanship and Adelyn McDowell took Junior Showmanship, all with purple ribbons. Their skill and professionalism were on full display in a competitive ring.

Clubs Make Their Mark

The Des Moines Ramblers, Future Leaders, Packwood Trojans, and Pekin FFA clubs dominated many of the top placings across all classes, reflecting the strength of Jefferson County’s youth agricultural programs.

As the dust settles on the swine arena, Jefferson County Fair organizers and community members praised the exhibitors for their months of preparation and sportsmanship. The event not only showcased prize-winning livestock but also the dedication and future promise of area youth in agriculture.

A huge thanks to our Jefferson County Fair sponsors for making this fair coverage possible:

  • Graber Services
  • H&R Block
  • Hinshaw Trailers of Richland
  • Keosauqua Lumber of Keosauqua and Fairfield
  • Merschman Seed
  • Mt. Pleasant Chevy, GMC, CDJR
  • Sinclair Tractor
  • Yotty’s Golf Cars

Top Honors Soar High in Jefferson County Poultry Show

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Iowa –

The feathers were flying and ribbons proudly pinned as the Jefferson County Fair Poultry Show wrapped up with standout performances across a wide variety of classes, highlighting the hard work and dedication of local 4-H and FFA members.

Joseph Lanman of Packwood Trojans dominated the poultry competition with a stunning sweep across multiple categories. Lanman took home several blue ribbons, including Best Meat Pen of 3, Best of Show–Game Bird, Best of Show–Peafowl, and top honors in Duck Pair, Turkey Single Entry, and Egg Quality–White and Brown classes. His versatile entries demonstrated excellence across species, from chickens and ducks to geese, turkeys, and even peafowl.

Kagan Vannoy of Leading Hands also turned heads in the exotic breeds categories, earning Best of Show–Hen, Best of Show–Small Hobby, Best of Show–Large Hobby, and Best of Show–Rooster with his eye-catching pairs. Vannoy’s unique entries showcased not only beauty but quality breeding and care.

In showmanship divisions, Frances Miller took home the Senior Poultry Showmanship title, while Kate Miller earned the Intermediate Poultry Showmanship ribbon, both representing the Future Leaders club. KaliAnn Nupp, a name seen frequently across the competition, secured the Junior Showmanship title.

The Best Egg Entry was awarded to Abbie Hammes of the Future Leaders, whose brown eggs impressed the judges with outstanding quality and consistency.

Other class standouts included:

  • Kyler Atwood (Ceniteers), with top honors in Return Production and Exotic Small Breeds.
  • Jackson Stremsterfer (Future Leaders), who won Best Production Pen of 3.
  • Brooklyn Harter (Walnut Ridge Workers), placing across multiple hobby and egg quality divisions.

From meat pens to heritage breeds, the Jefferson County Poultry Show proved once again to be a vibrant showcase of agricultural skill, youth development, and community spirit.

These young exhibitors have much to be proud of—and even more to aspire toward in next year’s barnyard battles.

A huge thanks to our Jefferson County Fair sponsors for making this fair coverage possible:

  • Graber Services
  • H&R Block
  • Hinshaw Trailers of Richland
  • Keosauqua Lumber of Keosauqua and Fairfield
  • Merschman Seed
  • Mt. Pleasant Chevy, GMC, CDJR
  • Sinclair Tractor
  • Yotty’s Golf Cars

Jefferson County 4-H Horse Show Results

JEFFERSON COUNTY, IOWA — Youth exhibitors from across Jefferson County demonstrated outstanding horsemanship, sportsmanship, and dedication at the recent 4-H Horse Show. Competing across multiple disciplines—from halter and showmanship to speed events—these 4-Hers represented their clubs with pride. Below are the top results from this year’s event:

 

Halter Division

Pony Mares (35-56 inches)

  • 1st – Wayne Wiley (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
    • Reserve Champion Pony

Pony Gelding (35-56 inches)

  • 1st – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
    • Champion Pony

Horse, Mares 8 Years & Above (Quarter Horse or Stock Type)

  • 1st – Brooklyn Headley (Des Moines Ramblers, Jefferson) – Blue
    • Champion Horse
  • 2nd – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Red
    • Reserve Champion Horse
  • 3rd – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Red

All Other Breeds (Not QH/Stock Type)

  • 1st – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
    • Champion Horse – Other Breed
  • 2nd – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
    • Reserve Champion Horse – Other Breed
  • 3rd – Gabriella Diers (Walnut Ridge Workers, Jefferson) – Blue

 

Horse Showmanship Division

Senior Showmanship

  • 1st – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
    • Senior Horse Showmanship Champion
  • 2nd – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – White

Intermediate Showmanship

  • 1st – Brooklyn Headley (Des Moines Ramblers, Jefferson) – Blue
    • Intermediate Horse Showmanship Champion
  • 2nd – Wayne Wiley (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – White
  • 3rd – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – White

Junior Showmanship

  • 1st – Gabriella Diers (Walnut Ridge Workers, Jefferson) – White
    • Junior Horse Showmanship Champion
  • 2nd – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – White

 

Performance Division

Driving – Pony Class

  • 1st – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue

Trail – Senior Class

  • 1st – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Red

Trail – Intermediate Class

  • 1st – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 2nd – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 3rd – Brooklyn Headley (Des Moines Ramblers, Jefferson) – Red

Trail – Junior Class

  • 1st – Gabriella Diers (Walnut Ridge Workers, Jefferson) – Red
  • 2nd – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Red

 

Pleasure & Equitation Division

Walk-Trot Pony Class

  • 1st – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 2nd – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue

Walk-Trot Horse Class

  • 1st – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 2nd – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – White
  • 3rd – Brooklyn Headley (Des Moines Ramblers, Jefferson) – White
  • 4th – Gabriella Diers (Walnut Ridge Workers, Jefferson) – White

Pony Pleasure (English or Western)

  • 1st – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – White
  • 2nd – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – White

Western Pleasure

  • 1st – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – White
  • 2nd – Gabriella Diers (Walnut Ridge Workers, Jefferson) – White

Ranch Horse Western Pleasure

  • 1st – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – White

Ranch Riding

  • 1st – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – White

Horsemanship – Senior

  • 1st – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Red

Horsemanship – Intermediate

  • Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Red
  • Brooklyn Headley (Des Moines Ramblers, Jefferson) – Red

Horsemanship – Junior

  • 1st – Gabriella Diers (Walnut Ridge Workers, Jefferson) – Red
  • 2nd – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Red

 

Speed Division

Pole Bending (Trot)

  • 1st – Gabriella Diers (Walnut Ridge Workers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 2nd – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 3rd – Brooklyn Headley (Des Moines Ramblers, Jefferson) – Red

Pole Bending

  • 1st – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 2nd – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 3rd – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue

Barrels (Trot)

  • 1st – Gabriella Diers (Walnut Ridge Workers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 2nd – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 3rd – Brooklyn Headley (Des Moines Ramblers, Jefferson) – Blue

Barrels

  • 1st – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 2nd – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 3rd – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue

Plug Race

  • 1st – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 2nd – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 3rd – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 4th – Brooklyn Headley (Des Moines Ramblers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 5th – Gabriella Diers (Walnut Ridge Workers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 6th – Canaan Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue

Flag Race

  • 1st – Kate Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 2nd – Peyton Freeman (Ceniteers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 3rd – John Miller (Future Leaders, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 4th – Brooklyn Headley (Des Moines Ramblers, Jefferson) – Blue
  • 5th (tie) – Gabriella Diers & Canaan Freeman – Red

 

Congratulations to all exhibitors for their hard work, preparation, and commitment. The 2025 Jefferson County 4-H Horse Show was a true celebration of youth development, horsemanship, and county pride. Special thanks to volunteers, parents, and judges who made this event possible. We can’t wait to see what these talented riders will accomplish next!

A huge thanks to our Jefferson County Fair sponsors for making this fair coverage possible:

  • Graber Services
  • H&R Block
  • Hinshaw Trailers of Richland
  • Keosauqua Lumber of Keosauqua and Fairfield
  • Merschman Seed
  • Mt. Pleasant Chevy, GMC, CDJR
  • Sinclair Tractor
  • Yotty’s Golf Cars

Top Exhibitors Shine in Goats and Sheep Categories at Jefferson County Fair

Jefferson County, IA – The barns were bustling and competition fierce as local youth showcased their livestock expertise during the Goats (Dairy and Meat) and Sheep events at this year’s Jefferson County Fair. With dozens of entries across breeding, market, carcass, showmanship, and bottle classes, a few standout individuals walked away with top honors.

Grand Champions & Reserve Champions

Breeding Goats

  • Grand Champion Breeding Meat Goat: Blake Sobaski (Fairfield FFA), entry #1036 – Breeding Does Under 1 Year of Age
  • Reserve Grand Champion Breeding Meat Goat: Scout Lock (Packwood Trojans), entry #542

Market Goats

  • Grand Champion Market Meat Goat: Blake Sobaski (Fairfield FFA), entry #1035
  • Reserve Grand Champion Market Meat Goat: Bryan Meixner (Ceniteers), entry #627

Carcass Goats

  • Champion Carcass Goat: Clae Cass (Fairfield FFA), entry #216

 

Breeding Lambs

  • Grand Champion Breeding Lamb: Scout Lock (Pekin FFA), commercial ewe lamb #541
  • Reserve Grand Champion Breeding Lamb: Scout Lock (Pekin FFA), purebred ewe lamb #543

Market Lambs

  • Grand Champion Market Lamb: Emily White (Fairfield FFA), entry #262
  • Reserve Grand Champion Market Lamb: Madisyn Woodburn (Fairfield FFA), entry #1324

Carcass Lambs

  • Champion Carcass Lamb: Ava McArtor (Des Moines Ramblers), entry #1019

Pen of Three Lambs

  • Champion Pen of 3 Market Lambs: Gabe Conner (Leading Hands), pen #94
  • Reserve Champion Pen of 3 Market Lambs: William Vanderhorst (Pekin FFA), pen #1139

 

Top Rate of Gain Awards

  • Goat: Joseph Lanman (Packwood Trojans), entry #1449
  • Sheep: Gabe Conner (Leading Hands), entry #91

 

Bottle Goats & Bottle Lambs

Junior Division (Grades 4–6)

Bucket-Bottle Goats

  • Champion Junior Bucket-Bottle Goat: Layla Cline (Leading Hands), entry #538
  • Reserve Champion Junior Bucket-Bottle Goat: Eli Carlson (Des Moines Ramblers), entry #1303
  • Other Notable Placings:
    • Joseph Lanman (Packwood Trojans), entry #1455 – Blue, 4th
    • Finn Schafer (Leading Hands), entry #102 – Blue, 3rd

Bucket-Bottle Lambs

  • Champion Junior Bucket-Bottle Lamb: Brenna Miller (Ceniteers), entry #373
  • Reserve Champion Junior Bucket-Bottle Lamb: Blake Miller (Ceniteers), entry #374
  • Other Notable Placings:
    • Scarlett McKee (Leading Hands), entry #737 – Red, 4th
    • Joseph Lanman (Packwood Trojans), entry #1456 – Blue, 3rd

 

Intermediate Division (Grades 7–9)

Bucket-Bottle Goats

  • Champion Intermediate Bucket-Bottle Goat: Kagan Vannoy (Leading Hands), entry #703

Bucket-Bottle Lambs

  • Champion Intermediate Bucket-Bottle Lamb: Carson Stagers (Packwood Trojans), entry #334
  • Reserve Champion Intermediate Bucket-Bottle Lamb: Kagan Vannoy (Leading Hands), entry #702

 

Return Bottle Lambs

  • Champion Return Bottle Lamb: Kagan Vannoy (Leading Hands), entry #701

 

 Showmanship Winners

Meat Goat Showmanship

  • Senior Champion: Kale McBeth (Packwood Trojans)
  • Intermediate Champion: Scout Lock (Packwood Trojans)

Dairy Goat Showmanship

  • Junior Champion: KaliAnn Nupp (Leading Hands)
  • Intermediate Champion: Joseph Lanman (Packwood Trojans)

 

Noteworthy Performances by Club

  • Fairfield FFA dominated both goat and sheep categories, led by standout exhibitors Blake Sobaski and Emily White.
  • Packwood Trojans excelled in showmanship and multiple market and breeding categories, including Scout Lock and Joseph Lanman.
  • Pekin FFA had a strong presence in lamb classes with multiple wins by Scout Lock and William Vanderhorst.
  • Leading Hands stood out in bottle and showmanship divisions, with strong performances from Layla Cline, Kagan Vannoy, Gabe Conner, and KaliAnn Nupp.

This year’s fair clearly showcased the hard work and dedication of Jefferson County youth. Congratulations to all participants for an outstanding exhibition!

 

A huge thanks to our Jefferson County Fair sponsors for making this fair coverage possible:

  • Graber Services
  • H&R Block
  • Hinshaw Trailers of Richland
  • Keosauqua Lumber of Keosauqua and Fairfield
  • Merschman Seed
  • Mt. Pleasant Chevy, GMC, CDJR
  • Sinclair Tractor
  • Yotty’s Golf Cars