Success Story4-H Farm Days



4-H Farm Days

Author: Lisa Adams

Planning Unit: Madison County CES

Major Program: Agriculture 4-H Core Curriculum

Plan of Work: Increase Knowledge of Agriculture and Natural Resources through Education and Experience

Outcome: Initial Outcome

After meeting with many local farmers and teachers, it was determined there was a need for more youth education about agriculture, farming and food. The Cooperative Extension Service planned and implemented a field trip for the local third grade students called 4-H Farm Days. During the 2017-2018 school year, nine hundred and seven third graders participated in a day long field day. Students were bussed to the Madison County Fairgrounds where they participated in fourteen workshops led by Cooperative Extension Agents for 4-H Youth Development, SNAP and EFNEP Assistants, Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent, Horticulture Agent and volunteers. Some of the workshops were: beef cattle, dairy cattle, chickens, goats, pumpkins, apples, bees, and container gardening. Each student had the opportunity to take a hay ride and participate in a farm relay. After the event, teachers were surveyed and 100% plan to return if the event is offered in the future. In follow-ups with their students, the teachers reported that 92% of the students had a better understanding of where their food comes from; 84% had a deeper appreciation for farmers after and 52% were planning to start some type of garden. The Cooperative Extension Service plans to continue to offer this program based on the positive evaluations.






Stories by Madison County CES


Grain Rescue Tubes

Grain Rescue Tubes

about 4 months ago by Brandon Sears

Grain storage bins have been in use since their invention by Illinois farmer Fred Hatch who is thoug... Read More


Outdoor Adventure Camp

Outdoor Adventure Camp

about 4 months ago by Brandon Darst

Last year was the Pilot year for the 4-H Outdoor Adventure and our goal this year was to expand it t... Read More