2024 Host Site: Coon Rapids

TOUR AGENDA
Coon Rapids

Join the “Evolution of the Heartland” on the Coon Rapids Tours, September 26, and delve into the dynamic world of sustainable agriculture and innovation. At Whiterock Conservancy, discover 5,500 acres of conservation land and the historic Garst Farm, pioneers in hybrid seed corn. Visit POET Bioprocessing to see how corn is transformed into bioethanol, highlighting energy sustainability. Behind the Bushel Tour takes you to Beck’s Hybrids seed corn plant, showcasing the seed selection and packaging process. On the Beyond the Barnyard Livestock Tour, explore Hat Ranch’s superior Tarentaise cattle genetics and Country Hilltop LLC’s pig farming and custom manure hauling, emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices.

EVENT ITINERARY

September 26

/ Timeline
8:00AM	Charter buses depart metros
9:00-10:00AM	Arrival & Welcome
10:00-12:00PM	Immersive tours
12:00-2:00PM	Main Street Entrepreneur Luncheon & Explore Downtown Businesses
2:00-4:00PM	Immersive tours
4:00-5:00PM	Closing Ceremony
4:30-6:30PM	Load buses and return home

IMMERSIVE TOURS

Sustainable

Agriculture

Whiterock Conservancy

Whiterock Conservancy, spanning 5,500 acres, serves as a nonprofit land trust dedicated to providing educational and recreational opportunities while prioritizing land conservation and sustainable farming practices. Offering over 40 miles of trails for hiking, running, mountain biking and equestrian activities, alongside RV and tent camping areas and vacation rentals, the conservancy invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature. As part of its commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental education, Whiterock Conservancy proudly oversees the historic Garst Farm, renowned as the birthplace of hybrid seed corn and the site where Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev stayed during his groundbreaking visit to the United States in 1959.

Beyond the
Barnyard

Hat Ranch & Country Hilltop, LLC

Established in 1958 by Doug Honold, Hat Ranch has earned a sterling reputation for its dedication to breeding top-quality purebred Angus and Tarentaise cattle. With a legacy spanning over six decades, Hat Ranch embodies a commitment to genetic advancement, striving to improve traits essential for calving ease and meat production. Then, delve into the dynamic world of Country Hilltop, LLC, where Kyler and Emily Oswald and Roger and Jeanna Clayburg, have returned to their roots to pursue their passion for pork production, sustainable practices, and industry advancement.

Fueling the

Future

POET Bioprocessing

POET Bioprocessing in Coon Rapids, Iowa, stands at the forefront of sustainable biofuel production, utilizing innovative technologies to transform renewable resources into high-quality ethanol. With a mission to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote energy independence, POET Bioprocessing is committed to environmental stewardship and community engagement. The Coon Rapids facility, part of the larger POET network, boasts state-of-the-art equipment and processes, ensuring efficient and environmentally responsible ethanol production.

Behind the

Bushel

Beck's Hybrids

Beck's Hybrids in Coon Rapids, Iowa, represents more than just a seed company; it serves as a catalyst for local economic growth and agricultural advancement. By offering premium seeds and cutting-edge agricultural technologies, Beck's has revolutionized farming practices, enabling local growers to achieve optimal yields and navigate the complexities of modern agriculture effectively. Beyond its products, Beck's fosters a dynamic ecosystem of collaboration and knowledge exchange among farmers, nurturing a culture of innovation and continuous learning within the community.

Shop, Eat, Play, Stay

ACCOMMODATIONS

1875 House
316 Sumpter Avenue

Bridge Street Bungalow
409 Bridge Street
712-577-3888

The Lodge
508 Main Street
712-684-5402

The Loft
1108 E Division St.
712-999-3488

Cute Apartment in the Heart of Downtown
408 Main St.

Prairie House
23665 Walnut Avenue
712-684-5298

The Rookery Cottage
1269 Fig Ave

School Days Studio Stays
519 2nd Ave.

Whiterock Conservancy
1436 Highway 141
712-790-8221

SHOPPING

Coon Rapids Hardware Hank
615 Main St.
712-684-2218

Coon Rapids Pharmacy
515 Main St.
712-999-6337

Dollar General
500 S 5th Ave.
712-999-3355

Fast Lane Motor Parts
30721 Hwy 141
712-684-7714

Frohlich’s SuperValu
403 Main St.
72-999-2257

Gary’s Antiques
118 6th Ave.
712-684-5616

Mohr Lumber
500 Main St.
712-999-7883

Nature Ammil
408 Main St.
712-999-6282

New Hope Bargain Shop
501 Main St.
712-999-2911

New Way Ford
30711 Hwy. 141
712-999-2202

New Patriot Trainer Fitness
411 Main St.
515-321-9928

Style on Main
521 Main St.
712-887-8983

Village Hobby & Flowers
508 Main St.
712-684-5211

Attractions

Avad Hunt Club
26321 Hwy. 141
712-863-5752

Carroll County Fairgrounds
14 8th Ave.

Carroll County Riverside Park and RV Campsite
32907 Walnut Ave.
712-792-4614

Club Birdie
517 Main Street
712-369-0507

Coon Bowl III
223 6th Ave.
712-999-2281

Coon Rapids Aquatic Center
925 North St.
712-999-7946

Coon Rapids-Bayard School & Sports Complex
905 North St.
712-999-2208

Coon Rapids Golf Course
731 S. 5th Ave.
712-999-2880

CR Fit
111 6th Ave
712-919-1900

Sculpture Park
Hwy. 141
East of Coon Rapids

Whiterock Conservancy
1436 Hwy. 141
712-790-8221

Dining

Chuck’s Bar & Grill
512 Main St.
712-684-2804

Coon Bowl III
223 6th Ave.
712-999-2281

Coon Rapids Country Club
731 5th Ave. South
712-999-2880

Country Store
516 Hwy. 141
712-999-5119

Frohlich’s SuperValu
403 Main St.
72-999-2257

Jenna’s Tattooed Confections
523 Main St.
712-684-2239

La Terraza Mexican Restaurant
501 S 5th Ave.
712-999-8000

Nature Ammil
408 Main St.
712-999-6282

Get Outdoors In
Coon Rapids

Located in along the Raccoon River in western Iowa, right on Highway 141, Coon Rapids is known globally for growing things. Residents work hard, raise families like a village and crusade for strong schools. For a community with a deep agricultural history they are proud to be the hometown to the great outdoors. Come escape, feel at home and explore Historic Coon Rapids. Connected, naturally.