In September of 2006 the Future of Cumberland County Agriculture (FOCCA), a program of Penn State Cooperative Extension, offered a chance for all residents to get firsthand experience with farm life. The Explore Cumberland County Agriculture Farm Tour 2006 featured seven farms scattered across the region, open for all visitors to explore and learn about.

At each site from 10am until 2pm the farms welcomed all. FOCCA provided an educator and small display on each farm to get the tours started. Thousands of acres were represented illustrating the diverse spectrum of the farming industry. Artisan cheeses, fresh dressed turkeys, milk, corn, alfalfa and natural vegetables, eggs and poultry are just a few of the many principle products that were featured at the farms.

All of the farms were chosen in order to provide a display with a large size range and variance in means of production. The farmers’ knowledge of operations and willingness to prepare were also essential elements in the farm choices made. With over 500 visitors across the Cumberland County Farms that day, all of the farmers agreed that they worked very hard in order to get their farm ready for the event.

Allowing anyone to visit the farms that day, whether knowledgeable in the industry or not, helped to promote a greater sense of community. Visitors were provided the opportunity to see and understand just what happens on the farm on a daily basis. Through that experience they gained an appreciation for what their local farmers do. Another tour is expected to occur in the fall of 2007 due to the successful turn out that pleased both farmers and visitors.

March, 2007