History for Homeschoolers at Plains Conservation Center: White Gold - Colorado's Sugar Beet

In the late 1800s, a new crop arrived in Colorado that would transform the state’s agriculture and economy: the sugar beet. Sometimes called “white gold,” this humble root crop quickly became one of the most important agricultural products in the region.

In this class, students learn how sugar beets shaped Colorado’s farming industry and brought new communities and workers to the plains. Through hands-on exploration in the garden and interactive activities, participants learn how sugar beets are grown and harvested—and even get the chance to see, touch and taste this historically important crop. History for Homeschoolers is a series of classes geared towards students in grades 4th-9th.

Program Fee: $18 per child, $16 per member child; One adult per child is free of charge. Additional adults and non-participating siblings ages 3 and up are $7 each. Non-participating siblings do not participate in take home activities.

Location: Plains Conservation Center, 21901 E. Hampden Avenue, Aurora, CO 80013