Plow day held in Olin; Prairieburg to host next one

     On Saturday, May 6, just outside of Olin, the East Central Iowa Draft Horse and Mule Association held a plow day for its members to get a chance to demonstrate farming the “old fashioned” way.

     Richard and Doris McAtee offered up their field for the play date of sorts and seven teams were present allowing the public to see what these gentle giants have to offer. A variety of draft horse breeds were represented, including Brabants, Mules, Belgians, and Percherons.

     Demonstrations included a plethora of antique implements such as a one-gang disc, an IH plow, harrow and a JD cultivator. In addition to members of the ECIDHMA being present, several spectators driving by did stop to take a second look.

     This event is just one sampling of a number of events planned throughout the year by this newly formed group, started by Jeff and Joann Carnahan earlier this year.

     ECIDHMA will be hosting a “Drive a Draft and Obstacle Course Challenge” Saturday June 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Prairieburg at Baker Park.

     Activities will start with a harnessing and safety demo and folks will be given the opportunity to drive with an experienced teamster, followed by an obstacle course demonstration for members.

     The organization is non-profit and you need not own a horse to enjoy these events, which are free to the public.

     For more information on events or how to become a member, contact Joann Carnahan at 319-540-5536.