FRANKLIN
All second graders in Isle of Wight and Surry counties participated in Farm Day on Tuesday. This is the 17th year for the annual event and this year it was held at Indika Farms in Windsor, owned by Billy and Jesse Lane Gwaltney.

The Peanut Soil and Water Conservation District sponsor this event for all second graders in Isle of Wight County Public Schools, Surry County Public Schools and at Isle of Wight Academy. Peanut SWCD Manager Tara Williams coordinates Farm Day, where it will be, who will be there and what activities will take place.

“The students learn about conservation and natural resources via rotating stations manned by volunteers from various agencies, such as Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, Department of Conservation and Recreation, Isle of Wight and Surry Cooperative Extension, Isle of Wight County Farm Bureau, Colonial Farm Credit and The Oaks Veterinary are a few to name,” Williams said.

Some of the rotating stations the children got to go through included taking a picture in front of a tractor, learning about bees, building better soils, germination of soybean, soils tunnel, beef cattle, grain art and the newest station, The Mobile Milking Parlor.

“The Mobile Milking Parlor was a hit,” Williams added. “It stole the show.”

Kayla Williams, a second-grade teacher at Isle of Wight Academy, said “The students really learned a lot and had a great time. Their favorite thing was the milking cow.”

Aside from the several stations, the children also got to learn about Indika Farms and what they do. Dot Gwaltney told them the history of the farm as well, and noted that she really enjoyed hosting Farm Day.

Donna Pittman, second-grade teacher at Carrsville Elementary Schools, added, “Over the years, my students have always thoroughly enjoyed the SWCD Farm Day. This year was no different, even though the previous scheduled day was rained out. Even with a fewer number of stations and exhibits because of rescheduling, the students still had a fun day!

It is obvious quite a bit of planning goes into this trip that is aligned with Science and Social Studies SOL’s. Thanks again to all who make this annual event possible,” she added.

“This [Farm Day] is a great idea!” Billy Gwaltney, who is also a director for the Peanut SWCD, said. “It’s nice for the District to be able to show how things are on the farm. Many of these kids would not otherwise have the opportunity to visit a farm. They need to know where the food comes from.”

Although the weather wasn’t sunny all day, Williams said the event went a huge success this year.

“Farm Day went well despite the weather,” she continued. “The teachers really enjoyed it and the kids always say it is ‘best day ever!’ I have heard nothing but positive comments from those who participated.”

Farm Day can be hosted by any farmer. Previously, it has been held at Outland Farms, Windhaven Farms, Corrowaugh Farms and Oliver Farms.

“We are open to new farms to visit,” Williams added. “We try to move it around the county from year-to-year.”