Ag Adventure family fun set June 19

2:08 p.m., May 24, 2004--Most of us in New Castle County live in suburban or urban settings, where we’re more likely to be awakened by a car alarm than the crow of a rooster. But, with 28 percent of the county classified as working farmland, agriculture is still vitally important to the region.

Learn more about modern-day agriculture here in New Castle County —and have a lot of fun doing so—at Ag Adventure, a free, educational event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, June 19. Co-sponsored by University of Delaware Cooperative Extension, Ag Adventure takes place at Hoober, Inc., on Route 301, Middletown, near the Maryland line.

Ag Adventure consists of three agricultural-related events all at one convenient location, New Castle County Extension agent Carl Davis, said. The day’s happenings include an Antique Tractor Pull, the 4-H/FFA New Castle County Livestock Classic and “Day on the Farm.”

The fourth annual “Day on the Farm” features plenty of family oriented fun, including a hayride, a straw-bale maze and children’s games and activities. Cooperative Extension professionals, University faculty and other experts will present exhibits on topics ranging from the centuries-old art of beekeeping to the high-tech wonders of the global positioning system (GPS). You’ll learn where food comes from (and no, the answer isn’t the grocery store); how biotechnology aids the farmer and consumer; and about the diversity of products created from soybean.

“Our ‘Day on the Farm’ exhibits always get rave reviews,” Davis said. “Our goal is to present hands-on learning experiences that are entertaining and educational for all ages - from young kids to adults.”

“Day on the Farm” is just one part of the fun at Ag Adventure. The action and excitement of the Antique Tractor Pull is another perennial favorite. Participants use their tractors to drag a weighted sled as far as possible along a dirt track in this one-of-a-kind sport.

And, plan to visit the 4-H/FFA New Castle County Livestock Classic, which gives young 4-H and FFA members one last chance to get livestock experience before the Delaware State Fair. Kids of all ages will enjoy seeing the goats, sheep, pigs and cows groomed to perfection and watch as the animals are paraded through the show ring.

For more information about Ag Adventure, call New Castle County Extension at 831-COOP.

By Margo McDonough
Photo by Kathy Atkinson

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