Wisconsin’s diverse agriculture scene — from alfalfa to zucchini — comes into clear view at Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center in Manitowoc.

Angel Johanek, director of marketing and development, said groups that visit can expect to gain a better understanding about current farm practices. And they’ll see how agriculture is integrated throughout everyday life.

“Farm Wisconsin is a brand-new facility and offers a great Wisconsin experience,” Johanek said. “From our agriculture-themed hands-on exhibits, farm bus tour through a local dairy farm, Wisconsin-sourced cafe and locally made ice cream — it’s a taste of all things Wisconsin in one day.”

In the Land O’Lakes Birthing Barn, guests can view the birth of a calf. The experience is often a group favorite. 

Farm Wisconsin birthing room
Land O’Lakes Birthing Barn, Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center, Manitowoc, Wis.
Credit: Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center

“Guests sit in a large auditorium-style viewing area, where two cows can be viewed at the same time during the birthing process,” Johanek said. “During this time our birthing barn manager also speaks to guests and answers any questions they may have about the birthing process or cows in general.”

Other activities include Farm Tours, where groups travel to a local family-owned farm accompanied with a video of the family taking them through the tour. Hands-on, interactive exhibits include a Kinect sandbox and combine simulator.

The state-of-the-art agricultural education center with 10,000 square feet of hands-on learning opportunities opened in 2018.

Johanek noted the center can work with any size group or time frame. A full tour group menu is offered with a private seating area for breakfast or lunch.

For more information on the Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center at 920-726-6004 or farmwisconsin.org.