Merle, Mervin

Merle, Mervin and Leroy Gingerich raise Percheron horses in Kalona, Iowa, Washington County and the Iowa City area. They breed under National Percheron Horse Association guidelines and maintain health screenings for equine conditions such as colic and infectious anemia.

Their horses graze on rotational pasture, enjoy daily turnout and receive hoof trimming plus dental exams on schedule. Foals are handled from the first week to foster gentle temperaments, and mares live in family-run barns with room for social groups. As a fourth-generation homestead, the farm blends traditional draft work values with attention to modern equine nutrition.

Several stallions have competed in regional draft horse exhibitions, and the gentle giants are known for calm dispositions around children. They select breeding pairs for soundness and longevity, favoring traits that support both work and leisure riding. Local farms often acquire their stock for both show rings and light draft work.