Close Encounters with Agriculture is an award-winning program that is offered each year to Montgomery County fourth-grade students from the public, and private. Since 1993, over 100,000 students have participated in this hands-on educational program designed to teach students about modern agriculture, maintaining a healthy environment, and leading a healthy lifestyle.
Program Goals
Production Agriculture
Children will better understand agriculture production by matching raw products (animal, grain and specialty) with finished products using a relay race and discussion. They will see close up and interact with horses, and goats. Students will also try their hand at butter making and milk a simulated cow. Each student will take home a goody bag of donated agricultural and promotional items, plus a pansy for planting.
Soils and Environment
Children will better understand how agricultural soil conservation best management practices affect water quality and our environment. Hands-on activities will help children learn about water quality, stream insects, local soils, wildlife habitat, soil erosion, and things students can do at home to help keep water clean and safe.
Nutrition
Children will study grain products and their relationship to nutrition, diet, and health. Students will learn about the parts of vegetables we eat through hands-on activities. Demonstrations, displays, and games will enhance their understanding of the importance of good nutrition. All activities are based on the latest federal guidelines. A clicker quiz game will cap off the activities
Contact Us
Interested in Participating?
All our slots are filled for 2024, please check back in the spring of 2025.
If you are a school interested in our program, please reach out to our office.
Our program would not be possible without the generosity of our donors and volunteers
