The Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation is launching a new hands-on learning opportunity that brings the story of Wyoming agriculture directly into classrooms across the state. The WyFB Ag Pen Pal Program, beginning spring 2026, pairs Wyoming farmers and ranchers with elementary classrooms for a semester-long exchange of letters, stories and real-world agricultural insight. 

The program is designed to help bridge the gap between students and the people who grow their food. By connecting classrooms with Wyoming producers, students gain a better understanding of where their food, fiber and fuel come from, as well as the seasons and work that shape life on farms and ranches. 

Each participating classroom is matched with a farmer or rancher in their region. Throughout the semester, they exchange two to three letters that may include details about winter feeding, calving season, planting decisions, brandings and the everyday work that keeps Wyoming agriculture moving. Many participants also include photos, drawings or stories that help bring agriculture to life for students.  

Classrooms respond with their own letters and questions, creating a meaningful back-and-forth exchange. At the end of the program, teachers and producers may choose to connect through a virtual visit or arrange an in-person classroom visit when possible. 

The program schedule is built with teachers and producers in mind. Pairings will be finalized in December, with the first letters sent by mid-February. Classrooms reply in early March, a second exchange takes place in April, and the program wraps up in May with a final letter or optional visit.  

The Ag Pen Pal Program aligns with WyFB’s commitment to agricultural education and outreach. By opening a direct line of communication between youth and producers, the program helps strengthen understanding and appreciation for Wyoming’s number one industry. It also reflects the longstanding tradition of community, connection and shared learning found across rural Wyoming. 

Those interested in participating should contact Alexis Lake at alake@wyfb.org.