Successful 2nd annual Agriculture & Food Science Exploration

The Second Annual Agriculture & Food Science Exploration Day

The second annual Agriculture & Food Science Exploration Day (AFSE) has been labeled a success. This event aims to educate high school students about the opportunities in agriculture and food science technology. The event was a partnership between Riverland Community College and Mower County 4-H Extension, with the goal of encouraging students to explore their interests and potential careers in these fields.

Importance of Agricultural Education

Agriculture and food science technology is one of the leading industries in the United States. It plays a crucial role in feeding, fueling, and clothing the world. Therefore, promoting agricultural education and guiding students towards these fields is of utmost importance.

Background of AFSE Day

The first AFSE Day was organized in 2022, and it has gained popularity ever since. The event was developed by Riverland Community College and Mower County 4-H Extension. Its primary objective is to provide hands-on experiences and knowledge about working in the agriculture and food science technology sectors.

Purpose of AFSE Day

“The idea for Ag & Food Science Exploration Day was to excite our youth about all the opportunities they can have in Ag & Food Science,” said Adam Stevemer of the Mower County 4-H Extension Office. The event is designed to be a quick hands-on exploration day, aiming to inspire students to pursue further studies and careers in agriculture or food science.

Activities and Sessions

AFSE Day, held on Wednesday, June 28, featured various sessions focused on different aspects of agriculture and food science. These sessions included topics such as plant science, animal health, food product development and safety, leadership skills, and STEM-related technologies.

Learning Opportunities

The students had the opportunity to learn about agronomy by participating in crop scouting activities. They visited a local corn and soybean yield trial plot and gained knowledge about identifying growth stages and controlling weeds, insects, and diseases. They also visited a dairy farm to learn about animal nutrition and health.

Developing Leadership Skills

Minnesota 4-H state ambassadors coached the students on developing and honing their leadership skills. These skills are essential for success in any field of study or career.

Showcasing STEM Technologies

The Minnesota State Center of Excellence in Agriculture brought the Technology Trailer to the event, showcasing various STEM technologies and tools used in environmental science, soil science, and plant diagnostic health.

Touring Hormel’s Labs

The day concluded with a tour of Hormel’s Chemistry and Microbiology labs. The students learned about the product design process, the history of Hormel Foods, and the importance of ensuring food safety in the creation and distribution of food products.

Appreciation for Sponsors

The organizers expressed gratitude to the sponsors who contributed to the success of the 2023 Agriculture & Food Science Exploration Day. The sponsors included Mower County Farm Bureau, Reads Brown Swiss, The Hormel Foundation, Northern Country Co-op, Hormel Foods, and the Minnesota State Northern Agricultural Center of Excellence.

Contact Information

For more information about AFSE Day or Mower County 4-H, please contact Adam Stevermer, 4-H Extension Educator, at stev0421@umn.edu or 507-437-9552. To learn more about postsecondary options in Ag & Food Science, please contact Riverland Community College Agriculture Instructor Nick Schiltz at nick.schiltz@riverland.edu.

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