Mighty H.C. Fair recognized by IAFE

CRESCO - Recently, the Mighty Howard County Fair was recognized for its work with youth and the community.

Tom Barnes, Executive Secretary of the Fair Board, said, “We are so humbled that our peers in IAFE (International Association of Fair Expositions) have awarded the Mighty Howard County Fair such an honor for the Fair’s swine facility program and dairy heifer program.”

These two programs are what they are because of the strong partnership between the Howard County Fair Board, Howard County Extension Service, Reicks View Farms and H&H Farms. All persons involved believe in the mission of the Reicks View Ag Education Center. 

Barnes is passionate about the county’s youth. “First and foremost, it is all about offering the opportunity to our area youth the experience of a hands-on livestock program, where they learn production agriculture, gain life skills and work with their peers.”

The community also benefits from the Center and its programs, as it shows first-hand how our local youth are responsible and dedicated kids. The Center is also a tool to educate all persons on where their food comes from. 

“Kudos to our partners, youth and others involved in these programs.”

Last year, the fair board purchased television screens which allowed the animal shows to be broadcast throughout the fairgrounds, in support of the youth.

The IAFE has members from the United States, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand and Great Britain, among others.

Barnes said, “Each year, they recognize fairs around the world in different categories. The CEO of IAFE has been to our fair. We are good friends with her. She said we should enter the IAFE contest.” 

He filled out the three-page application and sent some pictures. “We got a Division I in Fairs with under 100,000 visitors. We usually get 40,000-45,000 visitors.

“It’s a neat deal. We entered, and by golly, we got something. It’s pretty humbling.”

He went on to explain there are over 1,700 applicants for entries in agriculture. Barnes noted all the youth involvement, along with Reicks View Farms and H&H Farms. The Ag Education Center is also used for educational endeavors, such as Farm Safety.

The Ag Center is also used for outside events as well. On Feb. 12, the 5th Annual Oak Meadow Farms Production Sale was held at the Ag Center. “Last year, the first bull sold brought $144,000,” Barnes said. “It’s amazing.” 

In addition, the Iowa Brown Swiss Association has been having its auction in March for the past few years.