Editor’s note: Husker Harvest Days is Sept. 10-12 in Grand Island, Neb. Visit HuskerHarvestDays.com.

By Charlotte Brockman

Take a walk through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Institute for Agriculture and Natural Resources’ “Big Red” building this year to explore crops, livestock and community.

Teams of Nebraska Extension specialists are ready to share their field-proven knowledge and the latest in data-driven science to help any agricultural operation.

“The idea of coming to Husker Harvest Days is to learn ways to improve your farm, business and personal life, and that’s what we do,” says Steve Melvin, Merrick County Extension educator and irrigation cropping systems specialist.

Setting the tone for high-quality education at Husker Harvest Days, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has supported the show since its inception. This year’s display features a team of Extension educators and specialists ready to answer questions and provide cutting-edge data from university research.

Stop at the UNL building, Lot 827, to learn more about:

Focus on farm communities

Nebraska Extension specialists not only focus on agriculture production, but they also focus on self-care.

Working with Nebraskans, the Extension provides information to help communities thrive. This year, the UNL building also has experts available to discuss ways to support mental, physical and emotional wellness.

The Nebraska Extension also is promoting the Nebraska LEAD Program. Designed to develop agricultural leaders for Nebraska’s future, the 42-year program dives into ag policy, marketing, economics and technology. The two-year fellowship prepares and motivates men and women by providing a strong knowledge base and skills to respond to changes in agriculture.

Get ‘virtual’ view of careers

Just east of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln building is a space to learn more about a variety of careers, from wind turbine technician to a veterinarian, through virtual reality.

The College of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, Nebraska 4-H and the Nebraska Public Power District partner to bring hands-on learning opportunities.

“Visitors can see what it is like to work on a wind turbine with our virtual reality videos or learn more about the skills needed to become a veterinarian,” says Sue Ellen Pegg, a recruitment coordinator for CASNR. “We always have fun experiences and swag for all ages.”

With UNL staff on-site, learners of all ages can engage in career readiness activities that will assist them when applying for college in the future.

In addition to college readiness, students also can explore the Nebraska Career Zone. It is a joint effort to keep students in the state and bolster communities. Visit the Nebraska Career Zone at Lot 824.

Brockman writes from Lincoln, Neb.