Cultivating the Future: Inspiring Youth in Agriculture and Food Science

The Agriculture & Food Science Exploration Day, a collaborative effort between Riverland Community College and Mower County 4-H Extension, has once again proven to be a resounding success in igniting the passion of local youth for the dynamic fields of agriculture and food science. This annual event, now in its third year, has become a beacon of hope, guiding the next generation towards the boundless opportunities that lie within these vital industries.

Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators and Leaders

Immersing in the Wonders of Agronomy and Plant Science

The students' journey began with an immersive exploration of agronomy and plant science, led by experts from Nexus Cooperative. Participants delved into the intricacies of crop scouting, engaging in hands-on activities such as insect identification, stand count analysis, and soil sampling. They also had the opportunity to collect plant leaves and measure their health and performance, gaining a deeper understanding of the science behind sustainable agriculture.The students were captivated by the use of cutting-edge technologies, including drones and soil probes, which allowed them to observe and analyze the farm's ecosystem from a new perspective. They worked collaboratively, honing their teamwork skills as they discussed weed, insect, and disease control strategies employed by agronomists. This holistic approach not only imparted valuable knowledge but also ignited a sense of wonder and excitement about the dynamic field of plant science.

Exploring the Realm of Animal Health and Nutrition

The next stop on the AFSE Day journey was the Read's Brown Swiss dairy farm, where students delved into the world of animal health and nutrition. Through interactive scenarios, they learned about proper animal husbandry practices and the art of safely milking cows. This hands-on experience allowed them to appreciate the intricate balance between animal welfare, productivity, and the vital role of the livestock industry in the broader agricultural landscape.By engaging directly with the dairy farm operations, the students gained a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of animal science. They witnessed firsthand the importance of animal nutrition, herd management, and the interconnectedness of the various components that contribute to the success of a thriving dairy farm.

Discovering the Biofuels Revolution

The AFSE Day participants then ventured to the Absolute Energy Ethanol Plant near St. Ansgar, Iowa, to explore the burgeoning biofuels industry. Here, they delved into the intricate process of converting corn into fuel, gaining insights into the production of ethanol and the utilization of its by-product, dried distillers grain (DDGs), as a valuable livestock feed source.The students were captivated by the opportunity to touch, smell, and witness the ethanol production process unfold before their eyes. This hands-on experience not only broadened their understanding of the biofuels industry but also highlighted its crucial role in supporting the agricultural sector and rural economies.

Innovating in the Food Science Lab

The AFSE Day culminated with an exciting food innovation activity led by the research scientists from Hormel Foods' Research & Development Labs, hosted within the Riverland Community College Food Science Lab. The students were tasked with developing a new food product using bacon and a variety of seasonings, including apple cinnamon, dill pickle, French toast, maple black pepper, and hot honey.Through this interactive exercise, the participants learned the art of balancing flavors and ingredients to create a unique and delectable product. They meticulously weighed the seasonings and applied them to the bacon, honing their culinary skills and gaining a deeper appreciation for the science behind food product development.The AFSE Day's diverse range of activities, from agronomy and animal science to biofuels and food innovation, provided the students with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of agriculture and food science. By immersing themselves in these hands-on experiences, the participants were able to explore their passions, discover new interests, and envision the countless possibilities that await them in these dynamic fields.As the curtain fell on another successful AFSE Day, the organizers expressed their gratitude to the generous sponsors, including Riverland Community College, Mower County 4-H Extension, Mower County Farm Bureau, Mower County American Dairy Association, Mower County Corn and Soybean Growers, Reads Brown Swiss, Absolute Energy, Nexus Cooperative, Hormel Foods, and The Hormel Foundation. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in creating an engaging and enriching experience for the participating students.The future of agriculture and food science is bright, and the Agriculture & Food Science Exploration Day has played a pivotal role in igniting the spark within the next generation of innovators and leaders. As these young minds continue to explore and discover their passions, the organizers remain committed to providing them with the resources, guidance, and opportunities to shape a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.