Iowa dairy farmers have a new collective voice. She is the new Iowa Dairy Princess, Gina Fisher of Clayton County. Just a night before the start of the Iowa State Fair, Fisher was tapped to take on the title and responsibilities of promoting dairy for the coming year. The coronation was held in the Multi-Media Center in the Cattle Barn at the state fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa. Fisher, 17, is the daughter of David and Mary Fisher of Edgewood, Iowa. Fisher was also named Miss Congeniality from among the seven contestants. Jessica Hammerand will assist Fisher as 2011-12 Iowa Dairy Princess Alternate. The Dubuque County teen was also named winner of the presentation portion of the contest. Hammerand, 19, is the daughter of Jeff and Tammy Hammerand of Epworth, Iowa.

The outgoing Iowa Dairy Princess, Kendra Moser, Colesburg, Iowa, and Alternate Alyssa Meyer, Sumner, Iowa, will continue to inform consumers about the benefits of dairy products at this year’s fair.

Starting on Sept. 1, both Fisher and Hammerand will begin sharing the stories of dairy farmers during school visits and other community events. Appearances throughout the year will allow Fisher and Hammerand to educate consumers about nutritious dairy foods, on-farm animal care and environmental sustainability.

Judges considered personality, communication skills, and knowledge of and passion for the dairy industry to select the winner. The Iowa Division of Midwest Dairy Association, funded by the state’s dairy farmers, annually sponsors the Iowa Dairy Princess contest. PD

—From Midwest Dairy Association news release