On September 18th, over 200 DeKalb County third graders, their teachers, and some family members, traveled to Herndon Farms for Farm Bureau’s annual Farm Day.  While on the field trip, students got to see first-hand where their food and clothing comes from, along with the work that goes into producing it. 

Our precious natural resources were also featured.  Students experienced livestock animals, crops, machinery, wildlife, forestry, and more.  Students used all their senses to experience life on the farm. From touching animals and shelling corn to tasting butter they made from cream, it is a great learning tool. They even see how technology affects today’s agriculture through electricity and internet.  Most kids are now several generations removed from the farm. This experience helps them realize that food doesn’t just appear in the grocery store.  They can learn from and ask questions directly to farmers and ag industry leaders.

Farm Bureaus across the state sponsor Farm Day for their respected counties. What makes DeKalb County’s so special is that it is held on a real, working farm. Students take a hayride tour in addition to all the learning stations. We really appreciate the Herndon family for hosting this event each year.

In addition, we would like to thank the following supporters and volunteers:  DeKalb Young Farmers and Ranchers, DeKalb 4-H and FFA, USDA Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, DeKalb Soil and Water Conservation District, TN Forestry Dept., DeKalb County UT/TSU Extension,  TN Wildlife Resources Agency, DeKalb County Fire Dept., DTC, Caney Fork Electric, Edgar Evins State Park, Army Corps of Engineers, DeKalb/Rutherford Farmers Co-op, Tisdale Dairy Farm, Middle TN Natural Gas Project Hometown Help, Prichard Foods, and numerous other individual volunteers. The day would not be possible without each of you! We would also like to thank DeKalb County Schools and staff for allowing students to participate in this wonderful tradition.