A rapidly declining number of our area students have the availability of a first-hand experience in agriculture, an industry that significantly impacts all Iowans. The fact that schools are in session during our September fair provides the perfect opportunity for us to showcase agriculture to youth…using the fair as a classroom!

Iowa State University Extension provides leadership to the half-day field trips, facilitating hands-on learning experiences in agriculture for third and fourth grade students within a 30-mile radius of Spencer. The Clay County Fair Association provides gate passes to all students and accompanying adults, the classroom teachers conduct lessons to prepare the students for the experience, and the schools facilitate the bus transportation.

Approximately 1,500 students, teachers and parents take part in the program each year. The positive impact of the Ag-Citing experience is evidenced by many written comments from students and teachers, the willingness of the schools to participate each year, and the number of adult volunteers offering their time and expertise. Ag-Citing has most certainly strengthened the partnership between Iowa State University Extension, the area’s public and private schools, the community volunteers and the fair association. It is exciting to be a part of Ag-Citing!

For more information on the Ag-Citing program, visit the Iowa State University Extension Web site.