Proving Ground Farm is a 120 acre demonstration farm owned by the conservation district where best management farming practices are showcased, guided hunting is facilitated by area wildlife organizations, and public events are held to educate children and adults on where their food comes from, what plants and animals grow in our region, and how they can care for our natural resources.

About 400 adults and 600 children have attended programming at Proving Ground Farm within the past year! Topics covered have ranged from a hunting information workshop to a spring wildflower hike. Another major series of events that just concluded were field trips for various elementary students attending area schools. The students get to spend the entire day outdoors learning about agriculture, recycling, ecosystems, and many other topics through hands on programming. 

Hiking trails, ponds, and pavilions are open to the public during daylight hours. It is estimated that 1,500 to 2,000 guests visit the property outside of scheduled events to enjoy the scenery, hike the trails, and go fishing. This grant will allow guests at the property to enjoy it more easily and help to keep the natural environment safe and pristine for the plants and animals who call the property their home.