Pipestone’s Discovery Barn Returns to Sioux Empire Fair for 11th Year of Hands-On Ag Education

By
Jim Eadie
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The Discovery Barn is back at the Sioux Empire Fair from August 1–9, offering fairgoers, families, and students a rare opportunity to step inside modern agriculture. Now in its 11th year, the initiative—led by Pipestone—continues to serve as a bridge between producers and the public, offering hands-on education and real-life farming experiences.

From witnessing live piglet births to chatting with the farmers who raise them, the Discovery Barn delivers a behind-the-scenes look at where food comes from and who’s behind it. Each year, thousands of visitors walk through the exhibit, connecting directly with swine professionals, dairy farmers, and agricultural volunteers.

What to Expect:

  • Live Piglet Births: Sows farrow in real time, providing an unfiltered look into modern pig farming.

  • Meet the Animals: Visitors can interact with piglets, weaned pigs, calves, and a dairy cow—all raised by local farm families.

  • Youth in Ag Support: Last year, Pipestone donated 15 sows and 10 weaned pigs to youth programs including 4-H and FFA.

  • Educational Displays: Interactive stations show how food travels from the farm to the dinner table.

  • Volunteer Engagement: Over 50 community volunteers help run the barn, reflecting the collaborative spirit between producers and local communities.

In 2024 alone, the Discovery Barn reached:

  • 9 Fairs across 3 states

  • 195 Piglets born onsite

  • 53 Days of Discovery

  • And countless connections made between the public and agriculture.

For the Industry, By the Industry

“At its core, the Discovery Barn reflects what agriculture is all about—transparency, education, and people,” said Abby Hopp, Marketing Manager at Pipestone. “It’s a powerful way to show the next generation—and consumers—what pig farming really looks like.”

For swine producers and ag educators, the Discovery Barn remains a valuable tool in building trust, educating the public, and showcasing the values that drive today’s farms.

Stay up to date during the fair by following @PipestoneDiscovery on Facebook or visit www.pipestone.com to learn more.

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