Macks Creek R-V School District

Macks Creek FFA Participates in Bradford Research Farm Field Day.

Students Explore Hands-On Agricultural Careers Alongside Nearly 1,800 Peers

Columbia, MO — Macks Creek FFA members recently had the exciting opportunity to attend the annual Bradford Research Farm Field Day, hosted by the University of Missouri. The event brought together 61 schools and 1,791 students from across the state for a full day of career exploration, agricultural science demonstrations, and hands-on learning experiences.

• Swine research
• Dairy cattle industry
• Beef reproduction
• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
• Veterinary Medicine
• Genetic Diversity in Soybeans
• Agricultural Education
• MFA incorporated
• Beef carcass ultrasound
• MU college of Agriculture, Food, and Natural resources (CAFNR)
• Electric tractor & robotics
• Cannulated cow

Each station provided insight into unique areas of the agricultural industry. From animal science to advanced agricultural technology, students gained valuable exposure to real-world applications and careers.

One of the highlights was the beef carcass ultrasound station, where students learned how ultrasound technology is used to assess meat quality and size while the animal is still alive. This data contributes to the development of Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) — essential tools for improving livestock genetics.

“You could actually see the shape of the ribeye, which was super cool,” said Stella, a Macks Creek FFA member.

Another station that drew significant interest was the cannulated cow, where students were able to place their hands directly into the cow's rumen, one of its four stomach compartments. This hands-on experience offered a unique look at digestion and feed research, helping students understand how different feeds affect nutrient absorption and health in cattle.

“Being able to feel the digested food was strange but super cool,” said Kassidy, a Macks Creek FFA student.

These cannulated cows are critical for nutritional research and help scientists study how various feed types are processed in the digestive system. With proper care, these animals can live long, healthy lives.

The beef reproduction station allowed students to observe embryo development and participate in a pregnancy check simulation, providing further insight into livestock breeding practices.

At the dairy station, students learned the distinctions between the dairy and beef industries — including how dairy calves are typically separated from their mothers early due to limited maternal behavior and raised as bottle calves.

The swine research station also left a strong impression. Students had the chance to interact with piglets and learn how pigs are used in human health research due to their physiological similarities to humans. They were surprised to discover that, through genetic engineering, pigs can even be made to glow — a method used to track gene expression.

At the technology and robotics station, students were introduced to emerging innovations in agriculture, including self-driving electric tractors and automated systems used in crop production. These demonstrations highlighted the importance of technological advancement in sustaining global food production.

At the soybean diversity station students learned about soybean diversity and how scientists test different types to understand their strengths and weaknesses. They even got to see and compare soybean seeds in a variety of colors, showing how diverse this crop really is.

Throughout the day, students not only expanded their knowledge of agriculture but also saw firsthand the diversity of career paths available within the field. From veterinary science to ag technology and education, the event provided a dynamic and engaging environment for learning.

Macks Creek FFA is proud to have represented their school and community at such a large-scale event, and the students returned with a renewed enthusiasm for the future of agriculture.  #MCPirates