Posted on August 18, 2025 at 8:00 AM by Anna Egan
Worth County proudly nominates Michelle Medlang for the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame in recognition of her outstanding support of 4-H youth and the county’s dairy program. Since 2010, Michelle has helped over 50 4-H’ers show more than 200 dairy cows from her family farm, Medlang Swiss, where her brother Steven milks 80 registered Brown Swiss cows.
Michelle opens her farm to 4-H and FFA members—many with little or no livestock experience—offering hands-on learning and the opportunity to show cows at the county fair. This year alone, she’s helping 17 youth show 29 cows. Her mentorship began with helping her cousins and grew into a county-wide effort, with many youth returning year after year until graduation.
She teaches members how to halter, walk, clip, and present their animals, while encouraging responsibility for feeding, watering, and stall care during the fair. Michelle’s guidance ensures youth gain valuable livestock skills and confidence.
Her efforts have helped sustain Worth County’s Dairy Show and keep the barns full each year, especially as fewer youth have direct access to farm life. Michelle’s commitment to agricultural education and youth development has made a lasting impact on the community.
Michelle lives near Northwood, Iowa, and looks forward to continuing her work with future generations. Her dedication to mentoring and creating opportunities for young agricultural enthusiasts makes her a truly deserving Hall of Fame inductee.
