The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is partnering with the Food + Farm Exploration Center in Plover to make Wisconsin agriculture an extension of the classroom for its students.

Under the partnership, UWSP students, faculty and staff receive free general admission to the center, along with discounted memberships.

Students will also have access to internships, field trips, hands-on projects and professional networking. The experiences span agriculture, natural resources, nutrition, business and education.

Food + Farm Exploration Center executive director Alexandria Behrend said helping students understand the innovation, diversity and economic impact of Wisconsin agriculture also introduces them to career opportunities in the industry.

Instructors will be able to build agricultural experiences into their courses through fieldwork, guest lectures and community programs. The organizations plan to celebrate the partnership with a community potato harvest featuring commercial potato varieties and varieties developed through a University of Wisconsin breeding program.

UWSP Chancellor Robert Brinkmann said the collaboration will help students explore regional agriculture, sustainable practices and career possibilities.