Interactive classroom trailers connect thousands of students with farming
Idaho Farm Bureau has transformed agricultural education through its Moving Agriculture to the Classroom (MAC) Trailer program. What began as a single trailer with two learning modules has expanded into a successful statewide initiative that introduces thousands of students to agriculture every year.
The program was created to make agriculture exciting, interactive, and easy to understand for young learners. Developed by a committee of Farm Bureau parents, the trailers feature hands-on educational experiences that align with state learning standards while remaining free for schools to use.
When the program first launched, it included modules focused on dairy and wheat production. These commodities were selected because of their importance to Idaho agriculture. Dairy remains the state's leading agricultural commodity by value, while wheat is grown across many regions of Idaho.
Students do more than simply read about farming. Each module is centered around a large educational "Big Book," which features oversized pages displaying information about a specific agricultural topic. The interactive approach helps bring agriculture to life for children in classrooms and community events.
During the dairy lesson, students can shake cream into butter and learn about milk production while interacting with a life-size cow model. In the wheat module, students grind wheat into flour and discover how grain products are made before creating pancakes. These activities allow students to experience agriculture in a memorable and engaging way.
As the program grew, additional educational topics were introduced. A water module teaches children about water management, showing how snowmelt and seasonal moisture can cause flooding and how reservoirs and dams help store water for drier periods. Through demonstrations, students gain a better understanding of the important role water plays in agriculture and daily life.
In 2023, Idaho Farm Bureau added a beef module. This lesson follows cattle from birth through production while highlighting the many products made from beef byproducts. Students learn that cattle contribute to much more than food, including medical supplies, cosmetics, paint products, and sporting equipment.
Local county Farm Bureau organizations have also expanded the educational offerings with modules covering farm safety, forestry, and different farming systems. These additional exhibits are often showcased at county fairs and agricultural events throughout the state.
The growth of the MAC Trailer program has exceeded its original expectations. Organizers initially hoped to bring agriculture education to between 20 and 30 schools each year. Today, the program visits more than 75 schools annually and engages over 11,000 students. The expansion has also led to the addition of two more trailers, increasing the program’s reach and impact.
Beyond the classroom, the trailers are popular attractions at county fairs and the Idaho State Fair. More than 25,000 children interact with exhibits every year through fair events. Idaho Farm Bureau also supports one of the largest agricultural attractions at the Idaho State Fair, giving approximately 220,000 visitors the opportunity to learn about agriculture and meet farm animals.
The educational program also provides Farm Bureau members with a meaningful way to stay involved in agricultural outreach. Members who have completed participation in youth leadership programs can continue supporting agriculture education by volunteering in local schools and community events.
The impact of the initiative is becoming increasingly visible. Some students who experienced the program at a young age have returned as FFA members to help teach modules. Others have pursued agricultural careers or become active leaders within Farm Bureau organizations.
The success of the program earned national recognition when Idaho Farm Bureau received a 2026 Award of Excellence in the Engagement and Outreach category at the American Farm Bureau Convention. The award acknowledged the organization’s commitment to agricultural education and community involvement.
By connecting students directly with agriculture through hands-on learning, Idaho Farm Bureau continues to build awareness, appreciation, and understanding of the important role farming plays in everyday life.
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