Passport To Agriculture

Families are invited to explore the world of farming and food production at this summer’s Passport to Agriculture, a free, family-friendly event taking place on Thursday, July 30, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Rice County Fairgrounds in Faribault.

 

Passport to Agriculture transforms the fairgrounds into a series of fun, interactive “destinations” where attendees can learn about local agriculture, meet real farmers, and get hands-on with farming activities. Visitors will receive a passport to collect stamps at each stop, unlocking exciting ag experiences like bottle-feeding a calf, driving a combine simulator, and taking a ride in a real tractor.

Stations include:

• Cropstown – Learn about corn, soybeans, and the crops that feed the world

• Dairyville – Meet dairy calves and discover how milk gets from farm to fridge

• Livestock Lane – Get up close with pigs, poultry, and more

• Conservation Meadows – Explore how farmers protect soil and water

• Safety Street – Learn about farm and equipment safety in a fun way

• Specialty Shores – Learn about the unique side of agriculture: honey, syrup, and more

   

Admission and all activities are completely free, and guests will enjoy a complimentary supper featuring Minnesota-grown foods like beef, pork, turkey, sweet corn, and ice cream.

 

“This event is a fun way for families to discover how their food is grown and meet the people who grow it,” said Ryan Lermon, University of Minnesota Extension Educator for Rice and Steele Counties. “There’s something for everyone—whether you're two or a hundred and two!”

 

Passport to Agriculture is made possible thanks to the generous support of local sponsors, agricultural organizations, volunteers, and community members. The planning committee includes: Rice County American Dairy Association, Dakota/Rice Corn and Soybean Growers, Dakota/Rice Pork Producers, Rice County Farmers Union, Rice County Farm Bureau, Rice County Sheriff’s Department, Faribault Fire Department, Rice County 4-H, Rice County Extension, Rice SWCD, and local high school FFA chapters. All are welcome to attend.

 

For more information, follow the Passport to Agriculture Facebook Page or contact Ryan Lermon at 507-332-6165.