Summer 'Agventures'

Educators are invited to join for the June 17 and June 18 Educator Agventure Summer Agricultural Institute from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Carlinville. Investigate Illinois’ number one industry, agriculture.

While employing nearly 1.5 million people, agriculture generates more than $25 billion annually to Illinois’ economy. Come explore firsthand some of these many careers and aspects of the industry. They will help those in attendance learn how agriculture can help address the standards. During this institute, educators will try hands-on multidisciplinary activities all correlated to the standards and receive engaging, classroom ready resources. They will earn 14 professional development hours or one graduate credit.

Educators will build first-hand knowledge through traveling workshops and presenters. Tour a wholesale flower supplier located in St. Louis on “Flower Row” where one will see flowers and plants that are shipped in from around the world. Learn about state-of-the-art plant science research and breeding to deliver improved seed performance and plant protection using less land, water and energy.

On another tour, participants will learn about a diverse farming operation including specialty crops such as strawberries, asparagus, blackberries, blueberries, and peaches; homegrown products including canned and baked goods; and traditional crops of corn, soybeans, and wheat.

This institute costs $30 which includes meals, hands-on activity supplies, and classroom resources. Graduate credit will cost an additional fee. Participants may drive to area traveling workshop sites on their own or carpool with the coordinator and other educators. Sites will be within 72 miles of Carlinville but space is and will be limited.

Please register by May 28 online at go.illinois.edu/Agventure2024. For more information, please contact Agricultural Literacy Coordinator Connie Niemann at 217-854-9604 or [email protected].