Simulating Public Meetings on Controversial Agricultural Issues Using Cross-Departmental Collaboration

Understanding public perceptions of agricultural practices and businesses is important for students entering animal agriculture production and industries. Our objective was to connect technical content and communication skills in a real -world scenario using cross-departmental collaboration. Teams of students in the Agricultural Systems and Bioengineering Department's Agricultural Waste Management course (n=92) developed applications for concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs). Students in the Animal Science Department's Current Issues course (n=89) role played community members for and against proposed CAFOs. Plans and information needed for approval of CAFO permits were presented by Ag Waste Management students to panels of mock county zoning board and County Commission members at simulated public meetings. Arguments in favor and against proposed CAFOs were presented by Current Issues students. Mock board and Commission members questioned students on plans and arguments. A post-then-pre survey was administered immediately following simulated meetings. Overall response rate was 90%. Using a Likert scale (1=very low, 5=very high), students rated knowledge, awareness, understanding, and abilities in relation to 13 statements. Data from both courses was pooled and ratings for pre- and post-assignment were analyzed using Chi-square tests of independence. Post ratings were higher for all 13 statements (P < .0001). Statements addressed general awareness of arguments against CAFOs, process of applying for CAFOs, ability to find information relevant to CAFO applications and approval, knowledge of economic, environmental and social issue arguments, role of accurate data, role of emotions, understanding of manure management plans, and confidence in abilities to participate in a CAFO approval process as a livestock producer and as a local/community leader. This activity provided a meaningful learning activity for students from two departments, simulating real-world scenarios for those involved in livestock production.