Curious about the latest research coming out of the University of Minnesota’s College of Food, Agricultural & Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS)? Want to know more about how research at CFANS impacts your daily life, no matter where you live? Or maybe you’d like more information about Midwestern hops, or the role grocery stores play in Minnesota’s rural economy?

Then you won’t want to miss the 15th annual “Classes Without Quizzes,” a fun, informative and enlightening (emphasis on FUN) half-day learning event set for 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 2, at the U of M’s St. Paul campus.

“It’s a way for us to let people know the wide variety of things that are happening here at the U of M,” said Greg Cuomo, associate dean for research at CFANS. “I think a lot of people drive by our campus and wonder exactly what we’re doing inside. This is a way to show them.”

All participants will attend an opening keynote session led by Jay Bell, a professor in the Department of Soil, Water and Climate, covering the topic of “The 3 Ms of Soils: Minnesota, the Moon and Mars.” From there, participants will choose two breakout sessions to attend.

“We cover all topics, from large to small,” Cuomo said.

For example, Cuomo is leading a session a called “Growing Research” that will focus on how research conducted at CFANS comes about — including funding sources, resources required, personnel and how CFANS research helps prepare the next generation of agricultural problem-solvers and thought leaders.

Cuomo’s session would be of particular interest to corn farmers. Through the Minnesota Corn Research & Promotion Council, corn farmers invest about $4 million annually in research projects that focus on protecting water quality, increasing yields, pest/weed management and other efforts.

Other breakout sessions include the Mille Lacs Walleye Crisis, the Midwestern Hop Renaissance, Small Town Grocers, Cows, Calves and Technology and sessions that focus on climate change and the environment.

There are also hands-on sessions for youth in kindergarten through sixth grade, and an essay contest where high school students can earn a scholarship to attend “Classes Without Quizzes” by submitting an essay.

“We want to connect with anyone interested,” Cuomo said. “We hope to see you there.”

Complete information on “Classes Without Quizzes” — including registration details and a breakout session schedule — is available here.