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Students visit fairgrounds for Agricultural-Environmental Education Day

2 mins read
A brave student says hello to a draft horse.

FARMINGTON – First and fourth graders from across the region swarmed the Farmington Fairgrounds today celebrating the 27th Annual Agricultural-Environmental Education Day.

Cows, sheep, ducks and pigs lounged patiently in their barns as excited kids experienced being with them. For many, it was a rare opportunity for such an up close look at the animals. For others, who are raised on working farms, or have participated in 4-H clubs, the fair is a second home.

The day’s agenda wasn’t just about petting baby cows, however. As part of the school day, teachers had their students go on an educational scavenger hunt, seeking the answers for questions such as “what do bees use to make honey?” and “approximately how much cider do you get from a bushel of apples?”

As the kids sought their answers, volunteers from various local organizations helped them dig for the information. Displays and demonstrations filled the grounds around the animal barns, all focused on agriculture and the environment. Swarms of kids visited the stations, seeing first hand how to press cider, make paper and what it takes to be a game warden.

“The kids are so excited to be here, and it’s great because it works for all different learning styles,” Cape Cod Hill School teacher Sarah Ferguson said.

Game Warden Kris MacCabe talks to students about his job.
Older students show off their skills with their animals.
Students from Cape Cod Hill School read a Smoke Bear comic book together.
First and fourth graders get a hands on tutorial at one of the displays.
Students fill the barns, getting an up close look at turkeys, chickens, ducks and geese.
A volunteer gives a demonstration of an old fashion cider press.
A fourth grader gets a bear hug from Smokey.
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5 Comments

  1. Great to see the kids getting into this at a young age and getting them to understand it hands on. Thanks to all who make this possible for the kids.

  2. I am so glad the students get to see the fair thru their schools, they need to see all the skills and things that go on, many kids don’t realize what it is like to live with no cell phones, computers, or even have to raise their own foods. Great !

  3. THANK YOU to ALL of the presenters!! The students appeared to be having a fun time learning!! Loved the hands-on environment that invited the students to become involved in the “MANY” activities!!

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