Agricenter International Inc.

Overview

Agricenter International Inc. is a U.S. nonprofit organization focused on advancing knowledge and understanding of agriculture through research, education, and conservation. Established with the support of federal, state, and local funding, it serves as a catalytic facility for the agricultural industry.

Mission

The mission of Agricenter International is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of agri-industry by providing a platform for public and private entities to showcase agricultural technologies. This platform allows researchers, manufacturers, and producers to collaborate, share ideas, and exhibit the latest agricultural innovations in a single location.

Operations

Located near Memphis, Tennessee, Agricenter International spans over 1,000 acres and includes various facilities such as offices, a farmer's market, an RV park, farmland, and a weather station equipped with Doppler radar. The organization offers educational exhibits, information, and training programs designed to appeal to a wide audience, including adolescents, adults, children, and the general public.

Educational Programs

Agricenter International provides eight classes, each targeting specific age groups. Teachers can select which courses they wish to integrate into their curriculum, and bus scholarships are available to support student participation.

Community Engagement

The facility hosts numerous events and activities throughout the year, including the Delta Fair & Music Fest, Home & Garden Show, and Solar Tours. It also features a corn maze, a U-Pick Strawberry Patch, a Wildlife Observation Tower, and a pay-fish catfish pond known as Catch'em Lake. Guided tours are available, promoting family-friendly and accessible engagement with agriculture.

Governance and Budget

Agricenter International is managed by a diverse board of directors, consisting of professionals from various backgrounds in agriculture, business, and conservation. The organization's annual budget is approximately $5.2 million, which supports its educational, research, and community outreach initiatives.

Impact

Agricenter International attracts over half a million visitors annually, serving as a significant hub for agricultural innovation and education in the region. Its unique blend of research facilities, educational programs, and community activities makes it a vital resource for advancing agricultural knowledge and practices.