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Dedicated to the herd: Ethan Fetzer returns as judge for Henry County’s 2025 Bucket Animal Show
Educator, mentor, and cattleman Ethan Fetzer returns to the Henry County Fair this July to guide young exhibitors in one of the summer’s most hands-on learning experiences
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MT. PLEASANT — As Iowa celebrates Beef Month, the spotlight turns to the people who not only raise cattle but also shape the next generation of agricultural leaders. In Henry County, that spotlight shines on Ethan Fetzer, who returns this summer to judge the Pre-4-H Bucket Animal Show at the 2025 Henry County Fair.
The event, scheduled for Thursday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m., gives first and second grade students the chance to learn animal care, showmanship, and record-keeping in a hands-on, supportive environment. Fetzer, a well-regarded leader in local ag education, brings his expertise and energy back to the arena after judging the show in previously.
“Ethan [Fetzer] strives to create meaningful and hands-on learning experiences for his students,” the Henry County Farm Bureau said in its announcement.
That same philosophy makes him a natural fit for the Bucket Animal Show, where youth earn recognition not just for how they present their calves, but for what they know and how they care for their animals.
Fetzer, who lives in Wayland, earned his degree in agricultural education from Iowa State University. He now serves as the Agriculture Instructor and FFA Advisor at WACO Community Schools, where he launched the district’s ag program. The district selected him for the role in 2021 after he completed a rigorous interview process.
“He was chosen unanimously due to his passion, his ability to build relationships, and his vision for the Ag program,” the district said.
Iowa State Education Association President Mike Beranek recognized Fetzer’s impact early in his career. In 2022, Beranek described him as a standout first-year teacher who built an FFA chapter from the ground up.
He called Fetzer “the role model of what can be accomplished when an individual has the drive, passion and work ethic to achieve any goal.”
Fetzer brings that same energy to the Henry County fairgrounds. Each summer, young exhibitors present their bucket calves — raised on milk or milk replacer — in a format that encourages learning over competition.
Fetzer evaluates them using a 100-point scorecard that includes an oral interview, a completed manual, showmanship, and herdsmanship. The structure rewards preparation, understanding, and care.
Outside the classroom and fairgrounds, Fetzer lives what he teaches. He raises purebred Charolais cattle and manages a flock of sheep.
As Iowa observes Beef Month and highlights its role in feeding the world, events like the Bucket Animal Show display how education fuels the future of the beef industry.
Fetzer’s role in the ring reflects his classroom mission: introducing young students to the fundamentals of livestock care, responsibility, and respect for animals. With cattle and calves contributing more than $4 billion annually to Iowa’s economy, programs like this build both future producers and informed stewards of agriculture.
Families can register for the 2025 show until May 31. Henry County residents who completed first or second grade during the 2024—2025 school year can register online at forms.office.com/r/ndrhKLvAXX, by emailing henry.county@ifbf.org, or by calling Sarah Seitz at 217-430-2904.
As Beef Month continues across Iowa, Henry County honors not only its livestock but also leaders like Ethan Fetzer, who help raise the next generation to care for them. From the classroom to the show ring, Fetzer keeps investing in the future of agriculture — one calf, one student at a time.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
