By Scout Nelson
The University of Nebraska Lincoln Crops Judging Team placed fifth nationally at the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Crops Judging Contest held April 22 through April 25 in Normal, Illinois. Team member Gabrielle Clifton also earned an eighth-place individual finish during the competition. The team competed in the four-year division against 16 universities from across the country.
Team members included Maddie Weber, Gabrielle Clifton, Ryan Groff, Abby Frank, Clinton Turnbull, Alex Banzhaf, and Xavier Ettwein. The team was coached by Garrett Kuss, a graduate student in the Doctor of Plant Health program. In addition to competing, students spent time visiting farms, agricultural businesses, and manufacturing facilities to gain practical industry experience.
The team visited Hungry World Farm, where students learned about regenerative agriculture and sustainable food production. Farm manager Sam Ingersoll guided students through areas featuring rotational grazing with cattle, sheep, and chickens along with crops such as pawpaw, raspberries, and wine grapes. Students also learned about mushroom production and sustainable farming systems. During the visit, Ingersoll encouraged students to think differently about solving future agricultural challenges and supporting local communities.
Students also toured Precision Planting’s advanced manufacturing facility in Morton, Illinois. The 510,000 square foot facility opened in 2024 and gave students an inside look at modern agricultural technology and equipment manufacturing. Students observed the company’s Radicle Lab, which provides automated soil testing and soil health analysis for farmers.
The group later visited Epiphany Farms and met founder Chef Ken Myszka. The farm grows more than 500 vegetable varieties, raises heritage livestock, and manages vineyards across 70 acres. Students learned how crop rotation and livestock integration support soil fertility and pest management. They also visited a restaurant using ingredients produced directly from the farm, allowing students to experience the full farm to table system.
Kuss explained that the Crops Judging Team helped students apply classroom knowledge, explore career opportunities, and build professional connections across the agriculture industry.
Nebraska students and incoming freshmen are encouraged to contact Kuss at gkuss2@huskers.unl.edu for more information. The team meets once a week in the fall and twice a week in the spring during competition season.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-nes
Categories: Nebraska, Education