By the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce
GREAT BEND, Kan. — On September 4th, the 30th Annual Kids Ag Day took place at Diamond K Farms, now owned and managed by Josh Koelsch, marking three decades of educating Barton County’s fourth-grade students about the vital role of agriculture in everyday life. This year’s event, a program of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, was chaired by Scott Dewerff of KanEquip and began with a special appreciation breakfast, generously provided by High Plains Farm Credit, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by dignitaries and elected officials.
Reflecting on the legacy of this impactful event, Chamber President Megan Barfield expressed heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, committee members, and businesses who have supported Kids Ag Day over the years. “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped make this program a success for 30 years. From the volunteers to the businesses, and of course the committee members, their dedication has made it possible to reach thousands of students and expand their understanding of agriculture,” Barfield said.
Special recognition was given to founding committee members Jerry Esfeld, Ron Koelsch, Kevin Mauler, and the late Gerald Mauler, whose vision and commitment established Kids Ag Day in the early 1990s. Their passion laid the groundwork for what has now become a beloved annual tradition, inspiring students and communities alike.
Over the past 30 years, several local farms have generously hosted Kids Ag Day, each contributing to the success and growth of the event. Diamond K Farms, originally owned by Ron Koelsch and now managed by his son Josh Koelsch, has been a frequent host. Other host farms include Brining Farms, operated by the late Roger Brining, and 4M Farms, run by Kevin Mauler. These farms have provided the perfect setting for students to experience hands-on agricultural education, offering a unique learning environment to explore the various components of farming, ranching, and modern agricultural practices.
Originally conceived as a way to teach fourth graders about farming and agriculture, Kids Ag Day has grown significantly over the years. Today, it serves not only as an educational tool but also as a gateway for students to explore the broad array of career opportunities within agriculture—whether they come from farming backgrounds or not. The day’s hands-on learning activities offer a deeper understanding of everything from veterinary medicine and crop science to emerging technologies that shape the future of the industry.
“For many students, this is their first real exposure to agriculture outside of what they see in passing,” Barfield noted. “Kids Ag Day opens their eyes to the many possibilities available in this field, whether it’s managing a farm, working in ag technology, or even running their own business.”
As the students made their way around Diamond K Farms, they engaged in a variety of interactive stations that demonstrated farming practices, animal care, and agricultural technology, among other topics. Over 400 students participated this year, and with the help of more than 60 volunteers, the event ran smoothly from start to finish.
Scott Dewerff, this year’s committee chair, praised the dedication of the volunteers who make the event possible, including local high school FFA groups. “The hours of service given by our volunteers is simply remarkable. Whether it’s the FFA students or members of the ag community, each one shares a passion for agriculture and a desire to connect that passion with our youth. It’s that enthusiasm that makes this event so special and impactful. They give their time, knowledge, and energy to ensure the next generation understands and appreciates the importance of agriculture.”
Kids Ag Day has become a model for other communities looking to educate their youth about agriculture. “When other towns are looking to create their own programs, they come to see how we do things here,” Barfield said. “This event continues to raise the bar, and that’s thanks to the incredible volunteers and local support that have made it what it is today.”
In a touching reflection on the event’s legacy, Barfield shared how Kids Ag Day has come full circle for many local families: “We now have students attending this event whose parents were part of the very first Kids Ag Day class 30 years ago. It’s incredible to see how this program has impacted multiple generations. These parents are now watching their own children experience the same excitement and learning opportunities that opened their eyes to the importance of agriculture all those years ago.”
As the Chamber and the community look ahead to future Kids Ag Day events, the spirit of collaboration and education remains at the forefront. What started as an event filled with hayrack rides and horseshoe demonstrations has evolved into a comprehensive agricultural education experience for the next generation, with no signs of slowing down.
For more information about Kids Ag Day and to view photos from the event, visit the Great Bend Chamber website at www.greatbend.org or follow the Chamber on Facebook.
