Michigan county hosts Agriculture Day event for students

On Oct. 11, 2018, students from across Lenawee County will explore the high-tech world of agriculture at the first annual AG Day event ever held in Michigan. The event is expected to draw nearly 400 seventh grade students from Lenawee and Hillsdale County schools and will feature tours and hands-on demonstrations designed to motivate students to consider a career in one of many agriculture-related fields.

Technology has transformed the agriculture industry in the past two decades. Modern agriculture enterprises rely on sophisticated technology such as temperature and moisture sensors, robots, drones, and GPS technology. These advanced technologies have helped the agriculture industry to increase production, while also enhancing safety and sustainability.

“Lenawee County has a rich history in agriculture,” says Jim Van Doren, executive director at Lenawee Now. “With the economy booming and many employees nearing retirement, agriculture-related businesses are seeking to develop their talent pipeline. Events like AG Day can help us to inspire future pioneers in the industry.”

AG Day will take place in two locations: the Lenawee Intermediate School District’s (LISD) Center for a Sustainable Future and the Hudson Dairy. The LISD Center for a Sustainable Future provides students with hands-on learning opportunities through product development, demonstration, and active research in the rapidly growing areas of sustainable agriculture and alternative energy production. The Hudson Dairy is owned and operated by Milk Source, a leader in modern sustainable agriculture. Their farms have been pace-setters in the use of technology such as sand recycling, manure separation and underground nutrient pipelines.

Students will be able to witness technology in action and engage with professionals in a variety of agriculture-related fields, including genetics, horticulture, precision agriculture, crop/soil science, landscape architecture, forestry, conservation, and veterinary medicine. They will also enjoy an agriculture-themed lunch and bring home a vast amount of knowledge and materials to share with their families.

“This event is a unique opportunity for students to gain an understanding of how the agriculture industry has changed and what potential it holds for their future,” says Tim Robinson, director of operations at Lenawee Now. “They are going to learn about technology and innovations their parents probably aren’t even aware of. Hopefully it will stimulate discussion and spark their curiosity about agriculture-related careers.”

AG Day is the first program of its kind in Michigan. The event is a collaborative effort, with funding from the Greater Ann Arbor Region (GAAR) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. It is modeled after the highly successful national Manufacturing Day (MFG Day) program, which has been in place since 2012 and focuses on educating students about manufacturing careers.

Sponsoring companies include: The Andersons, Greenstone Farm Credit Services, Hudson Dairy, Lenawee County Farm Bureau, Nutrien, B&M Crop Consulting, Goetz River Farms, Briner Oil Co., First Federal Bank, Kaeb Sales Inc., Buentello Farm Services, Charles Robinson & Sons, Country Market, and Michigan Wheat Program.

Event Locations:

LISD Center for a Sustainable Future

4260 Tipton Hwy

Adrian, MI 49221

Hudson Dairy

8502 S Meridian Rd

Hudson, MI 49247