On behalf of the Iowa 4-H Program and considering the current and ongoing situation regarding the COVID-19 virus, adjustments are being made to this year’s livestock identification process and county weigh-ins.

• The Cherokee County 4-H & FFA sheep and goat weigh-in orginally scheduled for May has been cancelled. There will not be a rate of gain contest for sheep and meat goats for the 2020 Cherokee County Fair. 
• The animal ID deadline originally set for May 15 has been moved to June 1, 2020. This animal ID deadline applies to the following species: breeding beef. dairy cattle, dairy goat, dog, horse, meat goat, poultry, sheep and swine.
• Information regarding tagging procedures and retinal images will be communicated at a later date. Please look for this information soon. 

Dairy producers across Iowa have a new way of receiving information, thanks to a new podcast launched by dairy specialists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “Dairy News & Views from Iowa State University” began recording in April, featuring timely topics related to the COVID-19 pandemic and dairy production in general. The podcasts are recorded every two weeks, and feature commentary by ISU Extension and Outreach dairy specialists Jennifer Bentley and Fred Hall, in conversation with other Iowa State dairy industry experts.