Idaho Farm Bureau’s Ag Education Modules Move Agriculture to the Classroom

Launched as single trailer with two modules to bring agriculture to students in 20-30 schools annually, Idaho Farm Bureau's Moving Agriculture to the Classroom (MAC) Trailer program has grown to include three trailers and four modules that engage more than 11,000 students in 75 schools each year.

Designed by a committee of Farm Bureau parents in their 30s to provide interactive modules with the "wow factor," the lessons are state standard aligned, easy to transport and free for schools.

The program launched with one trailer and two modules: dairy, the state's top commodity by value, and wheat, which is grown throughout the state.

Beefing up the Modules

Not long after launch, the program expanded with a water module showing how snowmelt and wet springs can cause flooding and how dams and reservoirs store water for use during dry seasons.

In 2023, a beef module was added, illustrating the life cycle of cattle from birth to harvest and highlighting the array of beef byproducts used in cosmetics, paint, medical supplies and sports equipment.

Counties have also developed additional modules related to farm safety, forestry and conventional and organic farming for their fairs and events.

Going Big(ger)

Each module is anchored by an eight-page "Big Book," with each 4x4-foot page showcasing a different commodity. The students aren't just reading about agriculture though, they experience it hands-on through activities that allow them to shake cream into butter and milk a life-size cow during the dairy lesson; grind wheat into flour and make pancakes in the wheat module; watch a valley flood and then be saved by a dam in the water module; and explore the many byproducts of beef that go far beyond food.

Far surpassing the 20-30 schools Idaho Farm Bureau hoped to bring their one trailer to annually, today the program reaches more than 75 schools and 11,000 students each year and includes two more trailers, and additional Big Books and hands-on learning tools.

The MAC trailer is also a popular attraction at 12 county fairs and the Idaho State Fair, where more than 25,000 children interact with the exhibits annually. Idaho Farm Bureau also sponsors the state fair's largest agriculture attraction, giving 220,000 attendees the chance to connect with farm animals and agriculture displays.

Ag Education as a Member Engagement Opportunity

Idaho Farm Bureau's MAC Trailer program serves the dual purpose of bringing Idaho agriculture to students in an interactive format and providing members who have aged out of the Young Farmers & Ranchers program a meaningful opportunity to remain involved with the organization by sharing agriculture in their children's classrooms and local schools.

In addition, students who participated in MAC activities are returning as FFA members to help teach modules. And some are choosing careers in agriculture and leadership roles within Farm Bureau.

State Awards of Excellence

Idaho Farm Bureau's Moving Agriculture to the Classroom Trailer program was recognized with a 2026 Award of Excellence in the Engagement and Outreach category. The award was presented at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Convention in January in Anaheim.