Eleven Lincoln Land Community College agriculture students recently traveled to California's San Joaquin Valley to gain firsthand experience with one of the nation's most productive farming regions.
The weeklong industry tour, held May 23rd through the 29th, included stops in Bakersfield, San Luis Obispo and Fresno. Among the students participating was Sawyer Smith of Divernon and Michael Matesa from Staunton.

During the trip, students toured agriculture facilities at California Polytechnic State University and met with fruit, nut and livestock producers. The San Joaquin Valley produces nearly half of the fruits, vegetables and nuts grown in the United States each year.

Students learned about the challenges facing California agriculture, particularly the region's limited water supply. Local producers discussed the importance of irrigation, concerns over growing competition for water resources and the impact of groundwater regulations that are expected to significantly reduce water allotments in the coming years.

The group also explored agritourism operations, visited local farmers markets and traveled to several California landmarks, including Avila Beach and Yosemite National Park.

The California tour marks the fifth year Lincoln Land's agriculture program has offered industry travel opportunities. Previous trips have taken students to Texas, Ireland, Oregon and Italy, with plans already underway for an international trip in 2027.

The experience was supported by the Kreher Farm Perpetual Charitable Trust, Brandt Consolidated and Farm Credit Illinois.