According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, the number of young farmers in Laurel County is in steady decline.  The report showed that the percentage of Laurel County’s farmers that were aged 25 and under was 11% in 1969 but that number had decreased to 4% by 2017.  The largest increase in an age group was with farmers aged 65 and over, which grew from 18% in 1969 to 40% in 2017.  This clearly indicates that fewer young people are choosing the occupation of agricultural production, bringing into question the stability of our food systems.  Only by encouraging and supporting today’s youth can we ensure the quantities and quality of food that will be needed to sustain our society in the future. 

Both North Laurel and South Laurel High School have chapters of the Future Farmers of America that offer students excellent opportunities to learn about agricultural production, particularly the science, math, and discipline required to run a successful farming operation.  These FFA groups have been active in local, regional, and state FFA programs and competitions but a lack of funding for transportation has prevented them from participating in other events that would be highly beneficial to their agricultural education.  A need was identified for additional financial support to enhance the opportunities for these young men and women and prepare them to be the leaders of our agricultural community in the future.

To address this need, the Laurel County Extension Office agents assisted the London-Laurel Farmers Market in hosting its 2023 Bonnie Sigmon Farmer’s Feast.  Multiple groups came together to make the dinner possible, with the produce donated by the market vendors; Extension staff volunteering to clean and cut the vegetables; and the Laurel County Cattlemen’s Association cooking the meal. This popular event brings the community together each year to celebrate the harvest and enjoy a meal of locally grown produce, all while addressing local hunger and food insecurity issues.

The Farmers Market sold a total of 250 tickets, with 226 of the purchasers in attendance at the event.  Participants enjoyed a “trash can dinner” style meal and a lively cake auction featuring cakes donated by the FFA students and their families, the Laurel County Extension Homemakers Association, market vendors, and local merchants. 

The Farmer’s Market raised $7,000 through ticket sales and cake purchases.  Portions of the proceeds were donated to the North and South Laurel FFA chapters to support their educational programs. North Laurel FFA Advisor, Dustin Estridge, said he is, “. . .so thankful for a community that so eagerly supports young leaders and agriculture.” 

South Laurel FFA Advisor, Jason McWhorter, said his students enjoyed being a part of the event.  He stated that, “Any time we can introduce today’s farmers with tomorrow’s farmers and the public be involved it’s a great thing. 

A portion of the proceeds were also donated to God’s Pantry Food Bank to support their food distribution program in the fight against food insecurity.