Planting SeedsLearning All about Ag during AITC Summer Internship
“In August and September, AITC Summer Intern Elizabeth “Libby” Heenan is taking over my Planting Seeds column to tell you a little more about herself and all of her activities this summer with the Cook County Farm Bureau. I hope you learned a little more about Libby these past two months of summer and continue to enjoy getting to know our summer intern!”
Katrina Milton, Director of Ag Literacy
Learning All about Ag during AITC Summer Internship
One of the most important things I learned as a student in high school was that without agriculture, there would be no civilization. At first, this idea didn’t make much sense to me. I thought, “What does this have to do with farming?” My teacher explained that farming began through a long process of observation and experimentation when hunters and gatherers discovered that spreading seeds resulted in new growth. Farming allowed people to settle in one place and maintain a consistent food supply, ultimately leading to the development of other professions like merchants, carpenters, and teachers, which contributed to the creation of civilization as we know it.
This realization fueled my passion for agriculture and inspired me to seek hands-on experiences this past summer with the Cook County Farm Bureau. Throughout the summer, I traveled all over the county, educating the residents of Cook County on the importance of agriculture. One of the highlights of my internship was participating in library events, where we engaged with kids and their families on various agricultural topics, such as transportation and tacos. I loved showing families how farming impacts their everyday lives, even in a big city! My favorite part of these events was when people asked questions, as it showed their interest and desire to learn more.
These library events were just the beginning. During my internship I was also able to help with our Summer Ag Institute (SAI). I was able to learn more about Route 66 before the highway’s 100th anniversary in 2026, as well as other forms of transportation, including waterways and railways. I loved learning about the Chicago River on this trip. During our time in downtown Chicago, we were able to learn all about the river and the overall impact it has on the city through a boat tour on Lake Michigan and a tour at the McCormick Bridgehouse Museum.
Though my time at the farm bureau was short, it definitely was sweet. I gained so many invaluable skills and experiences that I will take with me for the rest of my life. I will forever be grateful to the farm bureau and my farm bureau family I gained along the way. Thank you so much Cook County Farm Bureau!