National Convention Tours: Taking A Journey Through American Agriculture

The National FFA Convention Tours recently took participants on an enlightening journey through the heart of American agriculture, with stops at several notable locations for local FFA chapters.

One of the highlights was the visit to Hunter’s Honey Farm in Indiana, a family-owned business with a rich history of over 100 years in beekeeping.

As fourth-generation beekeepers, the family has been producing honey and honey-related products, a circumstance that captured the interest of students, teachers, and even bus drivers alike.

This stop underscored the importance of family traditions and sustainable practices in agriculture.

Another fascinating stop for the students was at Huelsing Farms and Trucking in Effingham, Ill. This expansive operation spans five counties and manages 6,000 head of hogs, 15 semis, and 300,000 bushels of grain storage.

The farm’s dedication to efficient grain movement and preparation for new livestock arrivals highlighted the logistical challenges and meticulous planning required in modern farming.

Participants also toured Ozark Fisheries in Martinsville, Ind., a farm with a legacy dating back to 1898. With 255 ponds, the farm specializes in spawning fish, with a significant portion of sales made directly to consumers.

This visit illustrated the blend of traditional practices and modern consumer engagement in agriculture.

The tour concluded with a visit to Apache Sprayers in Mooresville, Ind., the largest manufacturer of mechanical drive sprayers globally.

Their extensive distribution network across North America, Australia, and Ukraine exemplifies the global reach and technological advancements in agricultural equipment.