Center For Agricultural and Food Science Technology

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Our Story

Riverland is partnering with The Hormel Foundation to build the Center for Agricultural and Food Science Technology, continuing George Hormel’s vision for the future.

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Our Vision

Riverland’s vision is to create a global center of excellence in agriculture and technology in Austin, Minnesota, benefiting our region and the world.

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Our Strategy

Our strategy is to build a demonstration farm, foster innovation through research and entrepreneurship, and create classrooms and labs that inspire future generations.

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Our Partnerships

We aim to build lasting partnerships and create a space where agriculture and food science technology spark meaningful conversations and innovation.

Future Of Advanced Agricultural Research in Minnesota (FAARM) Project

CFANS is developing the Future of Advanced Agricultural Research in Minnesota (FAARM) in Mower County through a public-private partnership with the U of M, elected officials, and private sector leaders. This state-of-the-art complex will feature world-class facilities and hundreds of acres dedicated to innovative research and workforce development in sustainable food production.

Leveraging cutting-edge technology, FAARM will drive essential discoveries, educate future professionals, and establish Minnesota as a global leader in food and agriculture innovation.

Read more about FAARM

Riverland agriculture student standing in a field

What our students are saying

“Riverland gave me hands-on experience, supportive professors, and a community that feels like home.”

Agriculture Student, Austin Campus
  • Affordable and close to home.
  • Small class sizes with one-on-one support.
  • Strong agricultural connections and opportunities.
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Agriculture & Food Science Programs at Riverland

Learn, grow, and lead in fields that feed the world.

Student using combine simulator
Agricultural Programs

Hands-on training in precision ag, animal and crop science, and sustainable farming.

Food science lab at Riverland
Food Science Technology

Explore food safety, product development, and how science shapes the future of food.

Student with family on farm
Farm Business Management

Gain skills in accounting, finance, tax management, and marketing to grow your farm business.

 
Riverland graduation ceremony

Funding Your Education

Scholarships That Open Doors

  • 500+ scholarships through the Riverland Foundation
  • Support from faculty, staff, and community partners
  • Helps cover tuition and fees — no repayment required
  • Awarded based on program, GPA, and other criteria
View Scholarships

Working With Our Community

4-H students exploring agriculture
Ag & Food Science Exploration Day
One-day event for 4-H students hosted with U of M Extension.
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Be Your Best students
Be Your Best Summer Prep Academy
Free program for students ages 16–22 to prep for college.
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Ag Club members
Ag & Food Science Technology Club
An official FFA Alumni and PAS organization.
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Ag internship student
Agricultural Science Internships
Hands-on experience with industry partners and co-ops.
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Sustainable Answer Acre Research Farm
Sustainable Answer Acre
A living lab for sustainable ag research and innovation.
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FFA logo
Austin Area FFA Alumni
Connecting alumni, leaders, and community partners.
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Community partnership
High School Concurrent Relationships
Partnering with local high schools to help students explore agriculture and build college-ready skills.
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Contact Information

Nick Schiltz
Nick Schiltz

Ag Instructor

507-433-0657
Okey Ukaga
Okechukwu Ukaga

Dean of Food & Agriculture

507-433-0698

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