AG Academy Program learns about sheep production with Dr. Ely at the University of Kentucky- College of Agriculture, Food & Environment Animal Sciences - Sheep Unit

U.S. Agriculture and American farmers play a crucial role for providing food, fiber and natural resources for a fast growing world.  “Unlike prior generations, consumers of today are not as connected with the land, the food grown on the land or the food they consume on a daily basis (Ten Eyck, 2000).”  The Ag Academy Program was first developed in Allen County in 2022 with the intent to educate youth on the importance of agriculture.  As a result of Ag Academy, the goal is to grow AG enthusiasts, as well as to encourage consumer behaviors which support local meat, produce and products from local farms in Allen County and across Kentucky.

 

The Ag Academy program consists of three consecutive days of farm tours, hands-on activities and meet & greets with farmers.  During this program, youth learn about: agriculture’s impact on society, local agriculture, research efforts in the Agriculture industry and large scale Agriculture Production. The 2025 AG Academy Program was hosted May 28-30, including a two night cabin stay in Harrodsburg, KY.  

 

The 2025 AG Academy Program provided experiential learning opportunities directly tied to Agriculture, reaching 18 youth and 5 adults.  Yet the impact of this program is even greater, when you consider the local, state and university partnerships formed through the Ag Academy Program.  Through the local tours, the County Extension Agents for ANR and 4-H Youth Development partnered with 7 farmers to highlight 3 different local Ag businesses.  At the state level, the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food & Environment - Extension and Research Farms help to connect Allen County youth with the UK Farms and research efforts at 5 animal and plant science units.  Not to mention various opportunities to draw connections to local farm friendly food systems through 4 Farm to Fork meals. 

As a result of AG Academy, 100% of youth indicated increased understanding of agriculture’s role on society and 100% indicated an increase of appreciation for agriculture as a consumer.  Other positive outcomes included many first experiences (overnight trip without parent, financial spending independence, etc.), increased desire to learn about agriculture and experience in food preparation.