Since its establishment in 1886, the State Fair of Texas has promoted Texas agriculture, and it continues to be a pillar of the Fair’s nonprofit mission. Initiated in 1973, the Agriculture Council of America (ACA) organized National Ag Day. Per AgDay.org, National Ag Day is, “A time when producers, agricultural associations, corporations, universities, government agencies, and countless others across America gather to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture.” The State Fair of Texas continues its commitment to agriculture through programs like the annual Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction, raising money for students to help fund the Big Tex Scholarship Program; Big Tex Urban Farms donating more than 1.5 million servings of fresh produce to local organizations; and through various educational exhibits during the Fair that are centered around agriculture in the Lone Star State. To celebrate National Ag Day, we are reflecting on a recent partnership with the National FFA Organization that took place to educate students on all things agriculture and livestock at the Most Texan Place on Earth.
Select student members of the National FFA Organization gathered in the DFW area to attend the Next Gen Conference. Next Gen Conferences allow students to explore a specific pathway through informational sessions, panels, and tours. Participants also experience new and emerging ideas, trends, and products, cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and more. Nearly 130 FFA high school sophomores, juniors, seniors, parents, and teachers visited the State Fair of Texas through the Next Gen Conference on March 7. They participated in a variety of sessions, including a tour of Cotton Bowl Stadium and Big Tex Urban Farms, as well as a presentation on agriculture, livestock, and general operations at the State Fair of Texas.
Daryl Real, Senior Vice President of Agriculture and Livestock, oversees agriculture and livestock at the Fair and other mission-focused programs, including fundraising for the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction. In addition to his duties at the State Fair, he frequently judges livestock at national, state, and local shows and stays involved in FFA and 4-H in Denton County. Daryl provided in-depth knowledge about the agricultural industry and the State Fair of Texas mission while showing the students around the Cotton Bowl.
“The State Fair of Texas prides itself on being an advocate for the agriculture industry. Through our year-round fundraising initiatives benefiting students across the state, Fair-time rodeos, livestock competitions, and educational activities and demonstrations, we aim to educate all on the significance of agriculture and its role in our everyday lives,” said Real. “It was a pleasure to host FFA students through the National FFA Organization’s Agriculture Communication Next Gen Conference. The State Fair of Texas understands the value of our future, impressionable leaders, and knows they have the opportunity to leave a legacy and present innovative ideas to better the agriculture industry.”
Drew Demler, director of horticulture for the State Fair of Texas, along with the Big Tex Urban Farms team, showcased the innovative marvels that lie within the Errol McKoy Greenhouse to the FFA high school students from across the nation. They discussed hydroponic farming, sustainability, and community involvement in a USDA-designated food desert, Fair Park, while also highlighting what the State Fair is doing in the agricultural communications space.
“The future of agriculture is our youth; with groups like the National FFA Organization and the State Fair of Texas, we are able to spread the message of the agricultural industry and how important it is in our society. We were excited to partner with them on this event and show these students, teachers, and parents what is possible even in an urban city and showcase the science that leads us all in our agricultural endeavors,” said Demler. “There is no doubt that the agricultural industry is a vital part of our past, present, and future, and we are thrilled to continue to spread the message of our nonprofit mission here at the State Fair of Texas year-round, focusing on education, agriculture, and community involvement as all of these areas are important pillars for future generations.”
On the 51st anniversary of National Ag Day, we look forward to highlighting the significance of agriculture and enhancing our agricultural impact in the future. Whether you are a livestock or horticulture enthusiast or simply want to learn more about agriculture, the annual State Fair of Texas has informative opportunities for all ages. During the 24-day run of the State Fair, Big Tex Urban Farms, located on the Midway, provides daily live demos and educational presentations. In addition, you can visit the Big Tex Birthing Barn, attend a Livestock Guided Tour, participate in livestock shows, and much more! Mark your calendars for the 2024 State Fair of Texas, running September 27 to October 20, 2024.