Prairie Dairy 5k 2026 — Oxford, IA

Timed 5k, run or walk: all on a dirt and mowed grass trail. The trail is considered hilly and rough. Start at a working microdairy, wind through 3 acres of restored Iowa tallgrass prairie, up and down inspirational Iowa hills, past the farm pond, near an Iowa nut growers hazelnut test crop and a native (baby) Christmas tree plot, and finish back at the dairy barn and arena for music and awards. The Prairie Dairy 5k will feature not only the timed race, but additionally a prairie identification challenge, with metals for finishers that identify native flora or fauna (checklist guide provided). The event kicks off the first year that Connorridge Farms Creamery is selling cheese. Our goal is twofold: 1) To bring people together in the pursuit of local food, including cheeses from exceptionally cared-for animals grazing (in part) on restored prairie. 2) To inspire others to incorporate and support regenerative practices. We want to bring back prairie to Iowa to help protect the habitat and biodiversity that supports hunting, fishing, and recreation, as well as the water we drink. Our goal is to expand prairie yearly and inspire others to support similar measures across the state. Important: 1) Close parking is limited. Parking may require a short hike through Prairie. No street parking. 2) We have a maximum event capacity and must count spectators against that capacity. Let us know who else may be coming by emailing connorridgefarms@gmail.com so we can track spectators. 3) Event will go on rain or shine. 4) Please no dogs (except service animals). Snacks will be provided to finishers. Cheese will be available for purchase. After presenting your provided Iowa fauna and flora checklist- finishers will receive a metal (or stickers, for under 5 kids tickets) featuring wildlife native to our prairie. IN PERSON: Giveaways for individuals that register after 7/15/26 may not be available on race day in your size. We will make items available for pick up at a later date. VIRTUAL PARTICIPANTS: Will receive the metal, t-shirt, and the Prairie plant identification hand-out. All items will be mailed after 8/1.