MOUNT PLEASANT, Iowa — Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig participated Monday in a long-standing southeastern Iowa tradition that brings together hundreds of tractor enthusiasts for a three-day ride celebrating the state’s agricultural roots.
Now in its 25th year, the annual tractor ride spans nearly 200 miles, beginning in Mount Pleasant and featuring more than 300 antique tractors grouped for a 75-mile journey on the first day. The event highlights Iowa’s farming legacy and draws collectors and spectators alike who share an appreciation for vintage farm machinery.
While the ride offers a nostalgic tribute to the state’s agricultural past, Naig noted it also serves a practical purpose.
“It’s a celebration of agriculture, of lots of old iron, the history of ag — and of course, what I’ll get is a really good crop check,” Naig said, pointing out the benefit of viewing fields up close at a modest 11 miles per hour.
Daily routes vary but start and end at the Midwest Old Threshers grounds in Mount Pleasant. On Monday, riders were bound for the Washington County Fairgrounds before looping back, although Naig joined only for the morning portion.
Despite his brief appearance, the secretary expressed enthusiasm for the experience, calling it “a beautiful, beautiful day.”
The ride includes scheduled stops for rest, refreshments, and camaraderie, making it a social as well as a celebratory event for the agricultural community.
