Large elm trees once lined the roads throughout the Fairgrounds. As our mature trees are felled by age or wind, the original splendor of the Fairgrounds is lost. However, if properly developed, the combination of mature and new trees can reestablish the lush vegetative nature of this facility. You can help continue the process of returning the greenery to the Fairgrounds as the dignity is restored to its buildings. Each $100 gift is collected in the general fund for upkeep and enhancement of trees on the Fairgrounds. An engraved nameplate with each donor's name is fixed on a plaque in The Des Moines Register Service Center.

Long-term planning includes a variety of trees to be planted. Eastern White Pine, Northern Red Oak, Sugar Maple and Shagbark Hickory are only some of the many varieties that will be carefully selected for placement by the Iowa State Fair’s master gardener.

The Blue Ribbon Foundation is striving to ensure that the Fairgrounds remains a beautiful piece of Iowa’s history for the children of tomorrow – we cannot afford to neglect the environment.

The deadline to have your name engraved on the donor plaque prior to the Iowa State Fair is March 31.

Contributions made to the Blue Ribbon Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by law; always consult your tax advisor.

A growing legacy

On June 29, 1998, a severe storm swept through the Iowa State Fairgrounds, leaving many mature, shade-bearing trees felled in its wake. The Legacy Tree program is dedicated to the replacement of these lost trees. Contributions to the program are used to reestablish the beautiful foliage Fairgoers have loved for generations. By donating a Legacy Tree, individuals will accelerate the restoration of beauty and shade on the Fairgrounds.

Each donation of $1000 will plant and perpetually care for a large tree on the Fairgrounds. A permanent recognition plaque with your personalized inscription will be placed in the ground at the base of your tree. These Legacy Trees will be approximately three to four inches in diameter and9 selected from a variety of Sugar Maple, Ash, Sycamore and Oak.

The deadline to have your recognition plaque placed before the Iowa State Fair is March 31.

Contributions to the Blue Ribbon Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by law; always consult your tax advisor.

If you would like to take advantage of either of these programs, please use our secure online order form.

To receive more information on this, or any of our fundraising efforts, please call us at 1-800-450-3732, or use our handy online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you!