FERGUS – The Fergus Agricultural Society hosted its first Agriculture Education Day on June 4 at the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex.
The event saw nearly 340 Grade 5 students in attendance, as well as 60 volunteers.
“It’s been a long-term goal of mine to add a school day where local elementary students can come, meet farmers, learn how food is produced and experience unique hands on activities,” said Fergus agricultural society director Rebecca Hannam.
The event was made possible by a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
“This pilot project would not have been possible without the $15,600 seed grant we received from the Ontario Trillium Foundation,” said Hannam.
The event featured hands-on learning opportunities as well as special events to keep students engaged.
Students participating were invited to visit with a number of farm animals on site as well as compete in a bale toss competition and a sack race.
Malia Malcolm participated in the bale toss at the event. Photo by Ellouise Thompson
OTF representative Robert Coole shared some words to volunteers over lunch, thanking the agricultural society for its continued work on educating the community.
“The work you do for your community is invaluable, and we know that this support from the OTF ensures that you will be able to continue making a difference for years to come,” said Coole.
“Thank you for choosing to work with the OTF and for giving us the opportunity to help and make positive impacts to the health and vibrancy of the community.”
Fergus Agricultural Society president Paul Rappolt stressed the importance of the event and its reach to young people in the community.
“This project not only de-mystifies food production, but it also tells our young people that we sincerely care about their health and their well-being, and that there is a place for them as an active member of our community” said Rappolt.
Centre Wellington Mayor Shawn Watters echoed those statements, congratulated the society and thanked its members for their work organizing the event.
While this year’s event is merely a pilot project, Hannam told the Advertiser she hopes to see the event become an annual tradition with even more students getting in on the fun.
Large farming machinery was also a popular draw at the educational event. Photo by Ellouise Thompson
