According to a recent study, 48% of Americans do not know where or how their food has been produced (Kirschenbaum & Buhler, Alliance of Science, 2022). This issue is trickling down to our youth as many do not understand what agriculture is and how it impacts our daily lives. 

To combat this statistic in our younger demographic, the Clark County Extension Office offered a field trip to showcase the various aspects of agriculture. The goal was to teach youth about the importance of agriculture and to bring awareness to where our products come from and the individuals that play a vital role in this industry. 

Teachers and students both expressed how impactful it was to see various farming operations and equipment first-hand and learn about how our food and fibers are grown and processed. Teachers reported that their students not only had a great time on the trip but learned about the importance of agriculture as a whole and to our community. 

All 3rd and 4th grade students in the county (roughly 800 youth) participated in this field trip over the course of two days. 

The Clark County Extension Office partnered with Clark County Schools, Gilkison Farm, Kentucky Beef Council, Kentucky Soybean Board, Kentucky Corn Growers Association, 4-H Teen Clubs, Storm Run Farm, University of Kentucky Equine department and Master Gardener's to teach at the event.