Check-in on the Checkoff: The Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series

By: Ralph Lents

Ralph Lents is a farmer from Menlo, Iowa, and currently serves as the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) President and on the Industrial Usage & U.S. Production Committee.

To Iowans, the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series is a rivalry rooted in pride, passion, and friendly competition, drawing fans from all corners of the state to cheer on either the Iowa Hawkeyes or the Iowa State Cyclones. At Iowa Corn, we’re proud to sponsor this series, not just for the excitement it brings, but for the unique platform it provides to connect with Iowans and share our story as farmers — a story that deserves attention.

A Unique Opportunity to Connect

Over 70% of Iowans tune in to watch the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk football game, and thousands more follow basketball and other matchups throughout the series. That’s an excellent opportunity to reach a broad audience. As Iowa Corn farmers, we don’t just grow crops—we grow connections. Sponsoring the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series helps us bring awareness to issues we care deeply about, like promoting cleaner burning fuel such as Unleaded 88 (E15) and creating a deeper understanding of modern agriculture.

Many Iowans still don’t use Unleaded 88 or know enough about its benefits. The Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series allows us to educate people within our state about how this renewable fuel, made from corn grown right here in Iowa, can reduce emissions, support our economy and help create a cleaner environment for future generations.

Farmers are Stewards of the Land

In Iowa, caring for the land is a way of life. Farms aren’t large corporations—they’re built through families, working to provide for their loved ones while leaving the land better than they found it. At Iowa Corn, we believe in showcasing that commitment. We know Iowans care about the environment, just as we do. Whether it’s through reducing fertilizer usage, improving water quality or adopting sustainable farming practices, Iowa farmers are constantly innovating to balance productivity with stewardship.

But as families grow further removed from the farm, questions arise—about food safety, sustainability and the role of agriculture in our state. Platforms like the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series allow us to address those questions, connecting Iowa’s farmers with consumers in a meaningful way.

Bridging the Gap

One of my favorite aspects of the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series is the chance to bring athletes to the farm. When they visit, they experience firsthand what it means to farm in Iowa—riding in a combine, learning about modern equipment and seeing the care and precision that goes into growing crops. These experiences not only open the athletes’ eyes but also connect them with their fans in a new way, putting a human face to the work we do.

It’s also an opportunity for farmers like me to experience the magic of game day. Going to the games, feeling the energy of the crowd, and seeing the excitement of fans—it makes me proud to be part of an event that unites our state and showcases Iowa Corn to such a broad audience.

Telling Our Story

As farmers, we’ve learned that we must tell our story over and over because people don’t always hear it the first time. It’s a sad reality that even in rural areas, many children don’t know a farmer personally. Through programs and partnerships like the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series, we’re working to change that. We want every Iowan to understand that farmers are their neighbors, working hard to grow food and fuel in a way that benefits everyone.

The Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series gives us a ready audience—a chance to reach people who may not think about farming in their day-to-day lives. It’s a platform to share the values we hold dear: pride in our work, care for the environment and a commitment to the future of Iowa.

At the end of the day, whether you cheer for the Hawkeyes or the Cyclones, we all want the best for our state. And just like the athletes on the field, Iowa’s farmers work tirelessly to ensure a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.

To learn more about Iowa Corn’s efforts and how we’re connecting with Iowans, visit iowacorn.org.

Thank you,

Ralph Lents

Iowa Corn Promotion Board President