Agriculture Awareness Day 2017 Deemed a Success

| October 3, 2017

EMLENTON, Pa. – The first ever Agriculture Awareness Day was held by the Venango Conservation District on Saturday, September 9, at Baytree Farm in Emlenton, Venango County.

[Pictured above: Venango County Commissioner Chip Abramovic, along with Clarion County Commissioners Ted Tharan and Ed Heasley, and Clarion-Venango-Forest Farm Bureau President Jeff Shaffer pose for a picture with the Venango-Clarion County Dairy Princess Royalty at the 2017 Agriculture Awareness Day held at Baytree Farm. Left to Right (back): Ted Tharan, Jeff Shaffer, Ed Heasley, and Chip Abramovic]

Baytree Farm is a 180-acre sheep farm owned and operated by Warren and Liz Thomas and is a total grass fed commercial lamb operation, currently raising 200 adult ewes for various markets and individual sales. In addition to lambs, Baytree Farm grows and direct markets pumpkins and fall decorations at the farm, with 2017 marking the 30th anniversary in the pumpkin business. The owners are committed to educating the public about agriculture and open their farm for tours and educational experiences throughout the year.

Over 300 farmers and consumers from Venango County and the surrounding area attended Agriculture Awareness Day learning about all aspects of agriculture. Numerous interactive displays were on site showcasing different agricultural commodities, agencies, and businesses. Demonstrations were also held throughout the day by local producers and agencies, including “Farming with Drones,” “Conveyor Belt Diverters,” “Soil Health Rainfall Simulator,” and “Agricultural Assistance Programs.” Farm machinery from a neighboring farm was on display showcasing equipment that is used to plant and harvest crops. Cleveland Brother’s Caterpillar held mini excavator skills competitions all day, where participants tried to move balls from traffic cones to a bucket.

Kids of all ages enjoyed games and activities including pumpkin bowling, face painting, and kid’s pedal tractor pulls. Hayrides were also held continually through the day, showcasing Baytree Farm, where attendees could see the pumpkin patch, sheep and lambs, and many acres of pasture. The barn was also open for viewing of the sheep and lambs up close. In addition to displays and activities, food vendors offered a variety of food and baked goods throughout the day.

The Venango Conservation District and Baytree Farm appreciates the support they received from this event and hopes to continue it in the future. The Venango Conservation District holds a variety of workshops and programs throughout the year educating adults and children about a variety of environmental topics. If you are interested in a particular topic, please contact the Venango Conservation District at 814-676-2832 for more information.


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