More than 70 high school students from five area schools recently attended the Haskell Ag Lab’s second annual Biology Day held on March 24, 2025. The day offered a deep dive into a diverse range of ecological topics.
The students were broken into groups and rotated through a series of engaging, hands-on sessions led by experts in their fields. Leslie Johnson, Animal Manure Management Extension Educator, led a crucial lesson on soil types and erosion control, demonstrating how windbreaks are used to protect valuable topsoil. Nicole Luhr, Water and Crops Extension Educator, led students through the world of pollinators, highlighting their vital role in our ecosystems and food production.
Ian Peterson guided students through the principles of spatial planting, showcasing how thoughtful arrangement can optimize resource use and plant health in raised garden beds. A wildlife session was led by Cody Baker, Harlee Phillips, and John McClinton from Pheasants Forever, where students gained insights into habitat management and conservation efforts for local species.
Students also took a walking tour through the Northeast Nebraska Arboretum at the Haskell Ag Lab with Todd Stewart from the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD), where they explored the diverse tree species and their ecological significance. Pam Bergstrom, National Technical Assistance Agroforester, led sessions with an informative look at windbreak design, explaining how strategically planted trees can provide numerous benefits, from reducing wind speeds to conserving energy.
The afternoon culminated in a collaborative challenge that had students using everything they learned throughout the day. Divided into smaller teams, students were tasked with developing the best windbreak recommendation for a new home situated on a designated plot of land. This hands-on competition fostered teamwork, critical thinking, and the practical application of the day's lessons.
A special thank you goes to Meaghan Vollers, a science teacher at LCC, for her invaluable assistance in planning and organizing this successful and impactful day for the students. The Haskell Ag Lab Biology Day provided direct interaction with experts and engaged students in real-world challenges.
