PA Farm Show All About The Kids, and Their Future
HARRISBURG PA – Everywhere one turned Friday (Jan. 13, 2023) at the Pennsylvania Farm Show, kids were being introduced to, reacquainted with, or renewing their dedication to the farming lifestyle.
Plenty of youngsters, even those who are city dwellers, have petted a dog or cat, or sung with a canary, or watched a deer in a distant field as they rode in a car through the countryside.
For many who attended the 2023 Farm Show, though, it was their first close encounter with a giant horse like a Clydesdale or Belgian. Their first opportunity to hear a cow snort and bellow a deep “moo-o-o” (above). Their first chance to witness the happy interaction between a sheep owner and sheep judge (at top), or watch a goat kick.
“In Pennsylvania, agriculture is our heritage,” state Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding reminded show audiences Saturday (Jan. 14), its last day. “It’s the food on our tables. It’s the foundation of our economy. It’s our future. Our roots, and the progress we have planted and nourished, have been on display for the past eight days,” he said. With luck and encouragement, Redding added, what impressionable minds absorbed during the week could lead them to future agricultural careers.
Local news from the 2023 Pennsylvania Farm Show:
PA Farm Show All About The Kids, and Their Future
Kids were all over, around, and into everything on display at the Pennsylvania Farm Show. That’s exactly what organizers hoped for. The show introduced many to the concept of farming for the first time, possibly with lasting results.
State Assists Farmers Transitioning to Organics
Dozens of certified organic farmers are located in Berks, Chester and Montgomery counties, included in more than 1,000 statewide. Pennsylvania on Friday issued $1.8 million in grant money to help farmers who are interested in certification.
Berks, Chester Groups Earn Urban Agriculture Grants
More than $520,000 in small urban agriculture grants was distributed during the Pennsylvania Farm Show. Among the winners were Berks and Chester counties’ groups helping to increase farming in rooftop containers and vacant plots.
