By Scout Nelson
Nearly 80 young students from across South Dakota gather at Camp Byron near Huron for the 2025 Farmers Union Jr. State Camp, where they explore renewable energy and cooperative learning. Campers use simple items like paper plates, balloons, and water bottles to build model wind turbines and learn how corn turns into ethanol.
Campers like 12-year-old Carter Semrau and 11-year-old Moriah Kippley enjoy hands-on activities that teach the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources. Comments like Kippley’s, who says she likes that “you can grow more corn,” show the camp’s success in sparking interest and understanding.
Older students serve as camp counselors, leading the younger campers through activities, games, and learning sessions. Many, like Liberty Doerr and Ethan Mutter, are former campers themselves and enjoy passing on traditions such as bonfires, flag raising, and group singing.
Campers also learn how cooperatives work. Divided into groups like housing, store, credit union, and newspaper, kids elect leaders and run the co-ops. Ten-year-old Maizy Ogren becomes President of the newspaper co-op and says she wants to include everyone’s voice.
Besides learning, campers enjoy fun activities like archery, ziplines, scavenger hunts, and games. Friendships and laughter fill the camp, making learning about agriculture and teamwork exciting and memorable.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Corn, General