Nebraska kids dive into ag at urban literacy festivals

By Scout Nelson

Nebraska is bridging the gap between urban areas and agriculture through its Ag Literacy Festivals, focusing on metro regions such as Cass, Douglas, Lancaster, Sarpy, and Saunders Counties.

Led by the Agricultural Literacy Coalition of Nebraska and coordinated by Extension Educator Cole Meador, these festivals are a platform for students to explore the agricultural world in an engaging and interactive manner.

The festivals cover a wide array of topics including beef, dairy, poultry, corn, soybeans, ag technology, and more. Through activities like corn relay races and technology demonstrations, students get to experience agriculture up close.

They learn about the size of an acre by comparing it to a football field and discover the technology used by farmers to check plant health.

A key feature of the festival is its hands-on approach, allowing kids to touch and see what farming and agriculture involve. From checking chlorophyll content in corn leaves to understanding water sources for irrigation, the activities are designed to be both educational and entertaining.

Beyond just fun and games, the festivals aim to cultivate a realistic and positive awareness of agriculture. Students leave with a greater appreciation for agricultural products, recognizing their health, convenience, versatility, and environmental sustainability.

Teachers see the value in these festivals, especially for 4th graders studying Nebraska and science and technology in agriculture. With high approval ratings from educators, the festivals are marked as an essential learning experience that aligns with curriculum goals.

In 2023, over 6,070 students from 153 schools participated in the Nebraska Extension Ag Literacy Festivals. This experiential learning opportunity opened students' eyes to the technology-driven, innovative world of agriculture, highlighting the industry's vital role in producing everyday products and shaping the future.

Through these festivals, Nebraska Extension is successfully connecting urban youth with the agricultural sector, ensuring a deeper understanding and appreciation for farming and food production among the next generation.

Photo Credit -nebraska-extenstion