Discover the World of Agriculture: Plan Your Visit Today
The Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center Location: 15327 Hwy 1, Harrisburg, AR 72432
Are you ready to immerse your students (2nd – 12th grade) in the fascinating world
of agriculture and rice production?
Book your visit at the NERREC to join our agriculture educator, for an unforgettable
educational experience. Our state-of-the-art facility features a dedicated wing for
the “Rice Discovery Experience,” designed to engage and inspire young minds through
interactive lessons and hands-on activities.
Our classroom and connected greenhouse displays rice and other crops at various growth
stages throughout the year. Visitors can also experience the diverse tastes, smells,
and textures of rice varieties prepared in our state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen.
Book Your Visit
Exciting Lessons Await Your Students
Lessons are adaptable for 2nd - 12th grade and on average last between one to two
hours.
Digging Deep into Soil
Explore the world beneath our feet! Students will learn about soil composition, different
soil types, and how farmers tend their soil to grow crops like rice.
This interactive lesson includes:
- Soil sampling
- Exploring a worm farm
- Conducting experiments on soil pH and permeability
- Special presentations from soil specialists are also available
Buzz Words: Soil, natural resources, organic matter, soil texture, soil profile, non-living mineral
particles, sand, silt, clay, soil sampling
From Our Field to Your Fork
Trace the journey of rice from the field to your fork. This lesson covers the growth
stages of rice, farming practices, and includes a cooking demonstration where students
can taste different types of rice. The program adapts to all ages and learning abilities,
offering a comprehensive look at the life cycle of rice.
This interactive lesson includes:
- Observing plants at different growth stages
- Observing rice at different milling stages
- Milling rice with demo milling equipment
- Tasting various types of rice
Buzz Words: Rice growth stages, farming practices, plant life cycle, rice cooking, brown vs white
rice
Water Run-Off and Erosion
Understand how water shapes our environment. Students will learn about rural and urban
water flow, erosion prevention, and create their own erosion prevention models using
water runoff simulators. This lesson encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.
This interactive lesson includes:
- A rain fall simulator activity
- Observation of different soil types
- Greenhouse observation
- Field observation (if weather allows)
Buzz Words: Water run-off, erosion, drainage systems, cover crops, pervious vs impervious surfaces,
no-till farming
Technology in the Field
Dive into the world of precision agriculture. Students will discover how farmers use
GIS mapping, drones, and other technologies to monitor and manage crops. This lesson
includes assembling a model drone and using it to simulate fieldwork, offering a hands-on
experience with modern farming technology.
This interactive lesson includes:
- Greenhouse observation
- Field observation (if weather allows)
- How drones are used on a farm activity
Buzz Words: Precision agriculture, farming technology, drones, GIS mapping
FAQs
327 Hwy. 1 Harrisburg, Ar 72432
Please contact our Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator: (501) 414-9766 or
contact our front desk at: (870) 738-9161
As you come into the parking lot, feel free to pull buses or cars up to the front
door (in the curve, by the “Greenway Equipment Building” sign) to unload or for smaller
groups, feel free park in the parking lot and walk into the front door.
Enter through the double doors into the first silo, next to the “Greenway Equipment
Building” sign. This will bring you into the atrium of the building where the Educator
will meet your group.
We suggest that your group wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothing appropriate
for outdoor activities.
If your group is participating in a kitchen activity, please make the NERREC staff
aware of any food allergies in your group before arriving on campus. If you are unsure
if your group is participating in a kitchen activity, please contact the Agriculture
and Natural Resources Educator at (501) 414-9766.
No need to worry about rain, all activities at the NERREC can be done indoors.
Yes. We have outdoor areas and a small covered area available for picnic lunches.
These areas, however, have limited space and do not have chairs. Feel free to bring
a blanket to put on the concrete or grass for your group.
If you plan for your class to bring a picnic lunch, please let the Agriculture and
Natural Resources Educator know before your visit.
Teachers and adult chaperones are responsible for the discipline of your group. This
allows staff to spend their energy providing quality programs and responding to questions.
We suggest that your group have one adult chaperone for every 6-10 children.
Don't miss out on this opportunity for your students!
Book Your Visit Today
