AgVenture is a free, county-sponsored program that seeks to inform and educate youth about agriculture, healthy-living and local agricultural products. Prior to arrival at the formal program, local students view four 10-minute virtual presentations; one on soil and water conservation, another on health and nutrition, and two about different agricultural commodities. Additionally, they can take a virtual tour of SJC Agriculture as well as view a host of virtual farm trips. On site, students interact with dozens of hands-on displays covering a multitude of topics.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, April 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Durham Ferry Outdoor Education Center in Manteca. Nearly 1,000 third graders from across southwest San Joaquin County are expected to attend, to meet with local farmers and educators.

With over a $3 billion farm industry, San Joaquin County is one of the most abundant and diverse agricultural regions in the world. This program brings together government, resource agencies and private organizations to demonstrate why the sustainability of agricultural is vital to our community, and how each organization plays an important role. The ultimate goal of the program is to help local youth better understand the importance of agriculture and potentially inspire future farmers.

This is one of four annual events put on by AgVenture program. Classes visit dozens of displays hosted by county businesses and organizations featuring everything from fruit and vegetables to livestock and farm machinery, and distribution of nutritious, locally-produced samples such as nuts and fruit.