Iowa Ag Week
March 19, 2024
It’s officially “Iowa Ag Week”. This week highlights the importance of agriculture to our state, its people, economy and way of life. The Blue Ribbon Foundation knows this week can’t be celebrated without showcasing the Iowa State Fair!
For example - behind a grand champion prize given at the Iowa State Fair might just be an adolescent, learning and showcasing their hard work inside a livestock barn. These youth grow into the next generation of Iowans that make our state so special.
The Iowa State Fair livestock barns are undergoing a major $25+ million renovation. The current Cattle, Horse, Sheep and Swine barns have not been renovated at this scale in the century since they were originally built and are in dire need of renovation.
Each structure has its specific area that needs renovating and ranges from roofing, flooring, electrical, restrooms, and tuck-pointing; all important aspects of keeping a livestock barn running effectively.
The Sheep Barn is currently in its second phase of renovation with restoring the terra cotta, repairing the masonry, updating restrooms, remodeling the office, repainting the overhangs, and resurfacing the lower roof levels. Over the next several years, the Cattle, Horse and Swine barns will each be part of the renovation.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation created the “Back the Barns” fundraising campaign to give anyone passionate about youth in agriculture a chance to support this renovation project. Providing youth with exceptional facilities to compete and showcase their hard work and skills every August is central to the Iowa State Fair’s mission.
Please consider joining this renovation campaign to enhance Fairgoers and livestock exhibitors’ experiences at the Iowa State Fair for many years to come. The Iowa State Fair is a tradition any Iowan can be proud of, and the Blue Ribbon Foundation is dedicated to continuing that legacy.
Thank you for helping us celebrate “Iowa Ag Week” during March, the Iowa State Fair in August but also EVERY DAY of the year! The Blue Ribbon Foundation is proud to support Iowans involved in Agriculture.
