The Oklahoma Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is encouraging second-grade students across Oklahoma to participate in its watermelon challenge.
The challenge is designed to educate students and families about the hard work of farmers and ranchers in growing food.
“We are really proud to help young students encounter agriculture through this hands-on experience in the garden,” said David VonTungeln, OKFB Foundation for Agriculture president. “So many of our students today don’t have the opportunity to witness firsthand how our food and fiber is grown. We hope this challenge offers students and families a small glimpse into just what it takes to grow food for the world.”
Schools participating in the challenge will receive 30 seed packets, an activity book and resources for lessons.
After lessons with their teacher, students and their families are encouraged to plant the watermelon seeds at home.
Watermelon seeds can be planted late-April to mid-May, but the soil temperature must be 70 degrees for the seeds to germinate. To find soil temperatures, visit the Oklahoma Mesonet system.
Oklahoma’s state vegetable requires a long growing season of 80 days. After students harvest the melon, they will need to submit a photo of themselves holding it to complete the challenge.
Each participant will receive a certificate, and OKFB Foundation for Agriculture will select three winners for a $100 prize. Submissions should be sent to Holly Carroll at holly.carroll@aggiving.org.
Teachers can sign up their second-grade classroom before May 4 by emailing Holly Carroll at holly.carroll@aggiving.org with their school address and contact information. The packets will be sent upon receiving registration information.
