Trappers Victor Stotts, left, and Patrick Flannigan explain coyote traps to Hanna Springs Elementary students at the school’s recent Ag Day. PHOTO BY DAVID LOWE From hides to hay bales, Ag Day -- held this year at Hanna Springs Elementary -- had it all. The annual event provides students an opportunity to observe a variety of ranch animals and farm implements, and to learn about the many facets of agricultural production.

Among many other activities, Ag Day included a roping station, a livestock petting area, displays of traps, an exhibit of corn and wheat products, and a discussion of nutrition -- with an emphasis on watermelons. In addition, students had opportunities to sit in a tractor, climb into a livestock trailer, race each other at a “milking” station and learn about branding.

Calves, goats, rabbits, chicks, a pig and a horse also made an appearance, with producers and veterinarians on site to discuss the features and proper care of the animals. Along with numerous community volunteers, high school FFA members and some Hanna Springs fifth-graders also assisted with Ag Day’s many learning stations.
With help from rancher Mark Langford, students look inside a cattle trailer.
This cowgirl took time at Ag Day to practice her lasso skills.
Students learned about branding livestock and had the option to get marked -- with flour instead of a hot iron.