Students visit a local farm and Conger Meat Market during annual seminar day

Students participating in the Be Your Best Summer Academy explored how beef moves from the farm to consumers during the program’s annual BYB Seminar Day on July 23.

This year’s “Beef: Farm to Table” theme combined classroom instruction with hands-on learning at a local family farm and Conger Meat Market in Conger, Minnesota.

Students began the day with an introduction to beef production led by Nick Schiltz, Riverland Community College agricultural instructor and program coordinator. They then visited a family farm, where they learned how beef cattle are raised and helped with their care.

The group continued to Conger Meat Market for a behind-the-scenes look at the meat processing industry. Students toured the facility and followed the production cycle from receiving through processing and product shipment.

“The experience allowed students to connect what they learned in the classroom with the people, animals and processes involved in bringing beef to the table,” Schiltz said. “They had an opportunity to see the complete process and learn directly from local agricultural professionals.”

The seminar also highlighted the range of knowledge and skills involved in agriculture and food production, including animal care, farm management, food safety, processing and distribution.

“It was a fun and rewarding day,” Schiltz said. “Experiences like this help students better understand agriculture and the important role it plays in our communities and everyday lives.”

Riverland Community College thanks the participating family farm and Conger Meat Market for welcoming the students and sharing their time and expertise. Conger Meat Market has been a strong supporter of Riverland and the Be Your Best students.

Riverland’s agricultural programs are based on Riverland's Austin Campus in the West Building.

Now in its 20th year, The Be Your Best Summer Academy is a free program for teens and young adults between the ages of 16 and 22. At Be Your Best, students have the opportunity to prepare for college by taking pre-college Math, Reading, and Writing. Students receive guidance and support through dedicated instructors, advisors, counselors, and tutors. Students also benefit from the educational seminars designed for college success and participate in leadership, volunteer and educational activities, and field trips throughout the summer.