On September 24th, the annual Farm Field Day at Resting Acres Angus in North Middletown, Kentucky, proved to be a tremendous success, despite the looming threat of Hurricane Helene. The event, attended by over 90 people, demonstrated the resilience and dedication of the local farming community and showcased the strength of partnerships between agricultural experts and healthcare providers.

Participants enjoyed an educational tour of the farm led by experts in the field. Dr. Jimmy Henning, a University of Kentucky Forage Specialist, shared invaluable insights into grazing cover crops. Forrest Wynne, Aquatics Specialist from Kentucky State University, provided expert advice on pond management, and Houston McFarland, the farm's manager, led a detailed overview of the farm's creek fed watering system.

One of the standout aspects of the event was the unique partnership between agriculture and healthcare. Thanks to Kay Denniston, the Family and Consumer Science Agent, the University of Kentucky College of Nursing’s Heart of the Family program participated in the event, offering essential health services. Their mobile clinic provided flu, Tdap, and COVID-19 vaccines, along with vital health screenings such as blood pressure monitoring, heart rate checks, BMI calculations, and HIV testing.

A total of 8 attendees received all available vaccines, while 14 participants took advantage of the health screenings. This collaboration emphasized the importance of promoting community health alongside agricultural education, creating a holistic experience for all participants.

In the face of impending bad weather, the 2024 Farm Field Day exemplified community spirit, knowledge sharing, and a focus on well-being, reinforcing its importance as an annual tradition for both farmers and families in the region.