Educating youth about agriculture is top of mind for people all around the state. Wisconsin Farm Technology Days is the perfect opportunity to do just that. Anna Maenner, Farm Technology Days Show Coordinator, says youth of all ages can look forward to an expansive, entertaining and educational program this year.
The youth experience at the 2023 show will be spread out throughout the grounds and incorporated into different exhibits. In the past there was a designated youth tent. Maenner says they want kids to feel involved in all aspects of the show and not be confined to one area. This encourages them to learn about Wisconsin agriculture, career opportunities, farm safety, and more.
“What we’re doing this year is more of a scavenger hunt,” explains Maenner. “Kids will receive a map of the grounds with seven stops marked out that will each feature a different activity.”
The Youth Ag Adventure seven stops include:
Staying Safe on the Farm
Activity focused on ATV and UTV Safety, Grain Safety, Lawnmower and Sun Safety, Power Take-Off and Blind Spot Safety.
A 70 Foot Long Soil Pit
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service is building a 70-foot-long soil pit. This pit will provide a real-life glimpse of what’s going on underground. Youth will learn about what different soil colors indicate using “soil crayons.”
Diversity in Diesel – Trucks, Gators, Excavators, Welding, and More!
This stop will include a virtual welding station, autosteer on a John Deere Gator, the live operation of a fully functional Cummins diesel engine performance trainer, an excavator skill challenge, and diagnostic engine tests on a diesel engine.
Hi, Ho Silver! Recreational Riding, Roping, and Saddling
The equine Ag Adventure activity will give kids the choice of roping a steer head or saddling a horse and learning more about the equine industry.
You’re On In 3 – 2 -1!
All youth are invited to step into the shoes of a reporter to get a taste of modern media and promotion. These activities involve social media, interviewing skills and going live on the show’s Facebook channel.
Big Engines and Miniature Farmscapes
Show hosts Badger Steam and Gas Engine Club will open their miniature farmscape so youth can get a bird’s-eye view of a traditional farming community. In addition, the club will have an incredible array of gas and steam engines on display.
Button it up with the DNR!
The Department of Natural Resources will share information about some of the programs present (i.e., wildlife, forestry, water quality) and lead a button-making station.
“It’s very important to provide these educational opportunities because these kids are going to be making decisions for agriculture in the future,” says Maenner. “We need to introduce them, make them comfortable, and educate them about the industry.”
The 2023 Wisconsin Farm Technology Days will be July 18-20 in Baraboo. Youth under 12 can attend Farm Technology Days with their parents, guardians, or youth leaders for free. More information can be found on their website.
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