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Stacey Steffens, MU Extension NW regional director, and Chelsea Corkins, MU Extension engagement specialist, demonstrate the preparation and cooking of a Cajun-style soybeans and rice recipe. -
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Festivalgoers explored the differences between soybeans, wheat and pasta with the hands-on sensory bin. Tractor Supply and AgIdea donated items to support the activity. -
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MU Extension booths at the 2025 Norborne Soybean Festival.
NORBORNE, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension again joined the celebration at the Norborne Soybean Festival in August by bringing hands-on learning and application to the “Soybean Capital of the World.”
This year’s festival theme, “Smells Like Bean Spirit,” gave the three-day event a lively 1990s flair, while MU Extension displays offered opportunities for visitors of all ages to explore the science, nutrition and versatility of soybeans, said MU Extension engagement specialist Chelsea Corkins.
Festivalgoers stopped by MU Extension’s booths to sample soy-based foods, discover new uses for soybeans, view 4-H state fair exhibits and learn how soybeans can be grown in different media, including hydroponically. Children and families enjoyed interactive games and activities that highlighted agriculture’s role in daily life such as the soybean sensory bin and Show-Me MO Operation game. More than 850 people engaged in MU Extension education at this year’s festival, Corkins said.
“Events like the Soybean Festival give us the chance to share research and knowledge in a fun, approachable way,” she said. “People walk away not only with new recipes or 4-H information, but also with a better understanding of how soybeans contribute to health, innovation and the local economy.”
New this year, the MU Extension team integrated a festival-wide scavenger hunt. This activity provided education while encouraging participants to learn about unique Norborne architecture and festival events, Corkins said. The popular roasted soybeans and cooking demonstrations were back. In addition, extension specialists were on hand to answer questions and connect with residents about programs ranging from nutrition and youth development to agronomy and community leadership.
The festival provided MU Extension with another opportunity to strengthen relationships across and beyond Carroll County while celebrating a crop that is vital to Missouri agriculture, Corkins said.
MU Extension team members for 2025 providing resources or educational displays included:
- Nutrition program associates: Amy Albertson, Carla Wayland-White, Christina Todd
- Nutrition and health specialist: Sue Robison
- 4-H youth program associate: Alex Heussner
- Horticulture specialist: Kathi Mecham
- Livestock specialist: Shelby Jenkins
- MU Extension Center in Carroll County office manager: Ryan Minnick
- Assistant extension professor: Sarah Wood
- Extension engagement specialist: Chelsea Corkins
- NW regional director: Stacey Steffens