The annual Iowa State Fair Weed Identification Contest will return on Friday, Aug. 8, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in front of the John Deere Agriculture Building. This contest is supported by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the ISU Department of Agronomy.

Participants of all ages can test their knowledge of common Iowa weeds by attempting to identify real weed samples, potted on a tabletop display. The contest requires contestants to understand commonly accepted names of weeds, but they do not need to know scientific names.

This fun opportunity is open to all who would like to participate, with three distinguishing levels: future agronomists (youth under age 19), general participants and professionals. Future agronomists will identify 20 common weeds in Iowa. Those at the general level will identify 30 weeds, while professionals will identify all 30, plus five additional challenging weeds found in Iowa.

Following the contest, winners will be announced at 3 p.m. during the awards ceremony held in the John Deere Agriculture Building. The top five winners in each division will walk away with a cash prize and a coveted Iowa State Fair ribbon. Weeds from the contest will also remain on display for the duration of the fair in the lower level of the same building.