Dordt University’s Ag Department is set to host its annual Ag Day on Friday, April 24, continuing a tradition that has served the Sioux Center community for over 45 years. The student-led event focuses on agricultural advocacy, education, and professional development.
Event Highlights
This year marks the introduction of a 5K race, starting at the campus clock tower. Registration opens at 6:00 a.m., with the race beginning at 6:15 a.m.
Other core activities include:
- FFA Competitions: Over 100 high school students will compete in dairy, livestock, and agronomy categories.
- The Barnyard: A petting zoo featuring various livestock.
- Equipment Display: A showcase of modern farm machinery in the campus parking lots.
- Community Lunch: A $5 pulled pork meal served from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
A Legacy of Leadership
The event is organized by a committee of 29 students, led this year by junior Emma Rusk. “The goal of Dordt AG Day is to provide leadership opportunities for our AG department students,” Rusk shared during a recent interview on The Daily Grind.
Ava Buwalda, a plant science major and chair of games for the event, emphasized the importance of connecting with the public. Buwalda noted that the event has evolved significantly since its inception in 1980, which she discovered while researching the university’s archives.
Logistics
While general admission to the equipment displays and barnyard is free, the lunch is $5 per person. Festivities are scheduled to run rain or shine, with organizers prepared to move events indoors if necessary.
Cover photo courtesy of Dordt University
