The Sleepy Eye FFA members had a fun-filled day of learning on the Summer Ag Tour. Pictured at NETZRO - L to R, Front: Clark Lazatin, Carter Lazatin, Karina Martinez, Elsie Trebesch, Alex Confer, Ruby Tauer, Paola Gonzalez, Kamille Capacia, Madi Martinez and Arianna Moore. Back - Ari Krzmarzick, Kayden Klein, Ethan Feucht, Charlie Hoffmann, CJ Martinez, Cameron Moore, Sam Rodriguez, Chloe Okerman, Aranza Tovar Garces and Isabella Robb.

Last week, Sleepy Eye Future Farmers of America (FFA) members visited a variety of places in the Twin Cities in order to learn about each and the career opportunities within them.

The first stop of the tour was at Bakers Field Flour & Bread in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Students toured the facility and learned how regionally grown grains are stone-milled into fresh flour and baked into artisan bread. Students learned about the importance of sustainable agriculture, local food systems, and careers in baking, milling, and food science.

Next, the group traveled to NETZRO, a food tech company in Minneapolis focused on upcycling food byproducts into reusable ingredients. Students learned how spent grains, eggshells, and other waste materials are transformed into usable products for food, pet food, and cosmetics. The tour highlighted careers in sustainability, food science, and engineering.

The tour continued at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory in Saint Paul. Students explored a variety of animal exhibits and were able to walk through the conservatory filled with tropical and seasonal plants. The experience offered a close-up look at wildlife from around the world and the importance of conservation. Students gained a better understanding of animal behavior and the habitats they live in.

The day ended with watching the St. Paul Saints, a minor league affiliate of the Minnesota Twins, play at CHS Field.

Each year, Sleepy Eye FFA conducts one-day tours in the summer with at least three educational stops. This is a way for our members to gain first-hand knowledge of different aspects of careers and explore the various career pathways.