The Martin County Extension Service is well aware of the importance of educating the youth of Martin County on all the different aspects of agriculture. For the sixth consecutive year we have provided plant science activities at every elementary school during Earth Week. This year we added the Middle school to the programming efforts. We also added partners to the program to make it more expansive. We were joined by Martin County Farm Bureau and the Soil Conservation District This year 1,100 youth, grades preK-8, planted pumpkin seeds to take home, received lessons on plant science and how to take care of our planet.

Based on questions asked at the end of each session, students indicated that they understand agriculture is essential to life. They also understand that ultimately, plants are the primary source of food. Tom Dials, former Martin County principal, said he can see in the kids eyes that they are learning. He didn’t always get this reaction as an educator.

The Earth Week programs resulted in an intermediate outcome. Students are now putting into practice things they have been learning for the last 4 years. They have a greater understanding of where our foods come from and are taking this information home with them. However, the impact of this program will be experienced for many years as these students continue to receive information on these valuable topics.