While exploring the many attractions at the event, students learned about the importance of agriculture and its benefits to our local and global community.
The expo provided a hands-on learning experience, allowing students to engage with various agricultural booths. As they moved from one exhibit to the next, students learned about the importance of animals in farming and ranching and the different aspects of agriculture. For some students, the event was their first time seeing many of the animals up close. Numerous smiles and sounds of laughter filled the building as students were captivated to learn about cows, pigs, alpacas (a crowd favorite!), sheep, goats, horses, chickens, and more!
Students also gained insight into the tools of ranching at the Natrona County Cow-Belles booth, where they learned about ear tagging, branding, fencing, vaccinations, and first aid for animals. At other booths, students learned about beef, wool, bees, plants, soils, and proper weed management, which are key to sustainable agriculture. Local organizations such as Natrona County Weed and Pest, Wildlife Services, and Stotz Equipment shared their expertise and experience with students on land management and farm equipment.
The Natrona County Fire Protection District stopped by to give students an inside look at a truck from their fleet and shared important information on how fire departments provide professional emergency services to the community, including helping protect property such as agricultural lands.
Over 800 third graders from across Natrona County attended the event to explore the world of agriculture. The event was a resounding success due to the numerous community members, agencies, and student groups who volunteered their time and expertise.
A special thank you to the terrific NCSD student leaders who shared their knowledge and skills to support this incredible event with presentations, clean-up, and organization: Trail Buster and Meadow Acres 4-H Clubs, Natrona County 4-H, Windy City FFA, NCHS Casper FFA, CY FFA, and NCHS ROTC.
“We are so pleased with how the 32nd Casper Ag Expo went. Over 38,000 students have been through the expo in the last 32 years. Leslie Hendry and Mary Owens started and ran the expo for 28 years. They laid the groundwork, and we have just added a few booths. We cannot thank those lovely ladies enough for the years of work they put into educating third graders,” shared Katrena Crimm with the Natrona County Cow-belles.
Thank you to the Central Wyoming Fairgrounds for hosting this event and the Natrona County Cow-Belles for their exceptional commitment to supporting students in their educational excellence!