OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee Soil and Water Conservation District Board of Supervisors recently approved payment through their Educator Grant program for the backpacks and reusable water bottles that will be given to students attending the Ag-Venture event in January.

Okeechobee Ag-Venture is a hands-on learning event where fourth grade students learn about various commodities that are produced in Okeechobee County along with conservation practices that are used by farmers and ranchers.

The event is run by volunteers and funded through community donations that cover the expenses for everything from student and teacher transportation to lunches. Throughout the day students enjoy activities such as making butter and squeezing oranges to make fresh juice. They learn the importance of a healthy, abundant food supply and hear about employment options in the agriculture industry.

To volunteer at the 2023 event which will be held Jan. 11 & 12 at the Agri Civic Center, visit the website, www.okeechobeeagventure.org