Cultivating the Future: Celebrating CLC Ag & Energy Field Day in Todd County

Agriculture is the cornerstone of Todd County’s economy and community identity, with its importance extending far beyond a single day. While National Ag Day is celebrated in March to honor the crucial role of agriculture, the contributions of farmers and agricultural professionals are vital year-round. Central Lakes College hosts an annual field day in August, further showcasing the innovations and practices shaping modern farming. Todd County recognizes how deeply agriculture influences the lives of its residents and strengthens the local economy throughout the year.

Experiential Learning at Central Lakes College's Ag & Energy Center

Central Lakes College is crucial in agricultural education and innovation. Cory Detloff, Director of Ag & Energy/Farm Business Management at CLC, emphasizes the importance of hands-on student training. "The CLC Ag & Energy Center provides students an opportunity for experiential learning," Detloff explains. “Students can learn about modern agricultural equipment and practices through hands-on training and education,” he says.

Central Lakes College offers programs to develop various skills essential for modern agriculture. Through collaborations with industry leaders like Midwest Machinery, students at CLC stay up-to-date with the latest equipment and technology used in today's agricultural operations. This level of exposure is essential for students preparing to lead in the future of agriculture.

Promoting Sustainable Farming Practices in Todd County

One of the Ag & Energy Center's central missions is promoting sustainable farming practices, a need that aligns with the farmers' priorities in Todd County. Detloff notes the center's collaboration with organizations such as the Minnesota Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to research and demonstrate sustainable practices.

"Farmers in Todd County are very interested in implementing several sustainable farming practices," says Detloff, "but are sometimes unsure what impact these practices will have on their business." To address this, the Ag & Energy Center provides valuable data on these practices to assist farmers in making informed decisions. The center's annual field day allows Todd County farmers to see these practices firsthand, fostering a deeper understanding of their benefits.

Innovating for the Future of Agriculture

Agriculture constantly evolves, and staying ahead of industry trends is essential to maintaining the sector's viability. At CLC, the focus is on innovation and equipping students with the knowledge to address challenges like climate change and the rapid pace of technological advancement. "With technology changing at such an alarming pace, the agriculture industry aims to be a leader in innovation," Detloff explains.

The Ag & Energy Center challenges students to think critically about the future and develop solutions for existing resource concerns using current or evolving technologies. By preparing students to think ahead, the Center ensures that the next generation of farmers will be equipped to lead with sustainability and economic viability in mind.

Field Day: A Community Celebration

Field Day this year brought together the community to celebrate agriculture's past, present, and future. The day included demonstrations of innovative projects, from drone technology and hydroponics to irrigation advancements. Detloff says, "Events included a children’s garden program, ice cream social, live music, and free meal with a lunch program. Community members were encouraged to attend and learn about the future of agriculture."

The event isn't just educational—it's a community gathering featuring a children's garden program, ice cream social, live music, and a free lunch. Field Day fosters dialogue among students, legislators, farmers, and the broader community about the evolving role of agriculture.

For Todd County, National Ag Day is not only a day to celebrate farming but also a reminder of how deeply the community's future is intertwined with the success of its agricultural industry.

Contact the Todd County Development Corporation for more information on how agriculture and other vital industries drive economic growth in Todd County or to explore opportunities for collaboration and development. We can continue building a stronger, more sustainable future for our community. Contact us here.