Teachers voiced their concerns, and Farm Camp Minnesota’s investors stepped up. Many schools across Minnesota face transportation budget constraints that limit field trip opportunities, preventing students from experiencing hands-on agricultural education. Thanks to a generous investment from the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council, Transportation Grants have been available for the past three school years to ensure students can attend Farm Camp experiences without the burden of travel costs.
Why the Transportation Grant Matters
Educators have repeatedly shared that their schools struggle to cover transportation expenses for off-campus learning experiences. Farm Camp Minnesota understands the critical role firsthand experiences play in agricultural literacy, and this grant program is designed to remove financial barriers. While grants are based on need, some do not cover the total transportation expenses. By covering bus transportation costs, the program enables teachers to plan impactful farm and agribusiness tours without worrying about budget constraints.
The Transportation Grants funded 16 buses for Farm Camps during the 2023-2024 school year. These grants also funded the 2024 Summer Teacher Tour buses. A continuing barrier is the limited availability of bus drivers.
Real Impact: BOLD School’s Story
The BOLD School District recently announced the cancellation of all field trips for the 2024-2025 school year due to financial limitations. However, thanks to the Farm Camp Minnesota Transportation Grant, their 5th-grade students will still be able to participate in a transformative agricultural learning experience.
On May 13th, 350 students from 11 schools will take part in 5th Grade Ag Day, visiting the Gilfillan Estate and multiple local farms. Students will engage in activities such as farm safety demonstrations, drone technology exploration, team-building exercises, and hands-on interactions with cattle, hogs, goats, sheep, alpacas, and hemp farming. This opportunity ensures that even in a year of budget cuts, students can gain invaluable exposure to Minnesota agriculture.
The Power of Investment: Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council
The Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council (MSRPC) has played a pivotal role in ensuring no Farm Camp is canceled due to lack of funding. Their investment in transportation grants has directly contributed to the success of Farm Camp Minnesota, supporting agricultural education for students in grades 5–12. MSRPC’s commitment to fostering agricultural awareness has empowered teachers and students alike, ensuring that learning extends beyond the classroom and into the heart of Minnesota’s farming communities.
Beyond funding transportation, MSRPC is also supporting a cleaner future. Since many school buses run on biodiesel made from soybeans, these grants are not only helping students get to Farm Camp—they are also cutting carbon emissions with every mile traveled. By investing in transportation grants, MSRPC is ensuring that student learning experiences are both accessible and environmentally responsible.
How to Apply for a Transportation Grant
Teachers interested in securing a Transportation Grant should plan their Farm Camp experience first before submitting an application. The grant process requires details about the planned event, ensuring funds are allocated efficiently. Following the Farm Camp, educators must submit pre- and post-event student surveys, an invoice for transportation costs, event details, photos, and completed photo release forms within four weeks of the event.
Making Agricultural Experience Accessible
By addressing the transportation challenge, Farm Camp Minnesota and MSRPC are making it possible for more students to connect with agriculture in meaningful ways. This initiative ensures that financial constraints do not stand in the way of experiential learning, helping cultivate the next generation of agricultural leaders.