By Justin Walker
Communications Specialist
Each year, millions of people attend livestock shows and rodeos across the state of Texas. Planet Agriculture, Texas Farm Bureau’s interactive exhibit, helps connect those fairgoers with agriculture in the Lone Star State.
“Our primary goal with urban relations and Planet Agriculture is to try to engage urban consumers about where their food and fiber comes from,” Mia Balko, Urban Relations and Youth Activities director, said.
The hands-on exhibit will travel across the state, displaying Texas agriculture at stock shows and rodeos.
Planet Agriculture will also have a new addition this year.
A commodities map will now be part of the exhibit. It will show consumers the diversity of Texas agriculture.
“Agriculture in Texas encompasses crops that many don’t think about. Watermelons, cucumbers, asparagus and more are grown right here in our state,” Balko said. “Texas farmers and ranchers grow a variety of food for any taste and this commodities map will help show that.”
The map will display the crops and livestock grown throughout the state—highlighting the similarities and connecting the differences.
Planet Agriculture will make appearances at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo from Jan. 12-Feb. 3, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo from Feb. 8-25 and the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show from March 9-19. The exhibit will also be on display this fall at the West Texas State Fair from Sept. 6-15, East Texas State Fair from Sept. 21-30, State Fair of Texas from Sept. 28-Oct. 21 and the Heart of Texas Fair and Rodeo Oct. 4-13
Texans of all ages can explore agriculture through the exhibit’s interactive games, videos, demonstrations and presentations.
Balko noted the Harvest Experience trailer, a corn or wheat harvest simulator, will also be on display at several of the livestock shows during the fall and spring.
For more information on the events, visit the “Ag in the Community” page.