The University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources was on full display during the 12th South Farm Showcase, which was held on Saturday, Sept. 29.
The free, family-friendly event brought thousands out to the South Farm Research Center, in Columbia. Attendees could stop by the more than 60 venues set up throughout the Center and Jefferson Farm and Garden. The focus of the event is sharing the fun and excitement of science and discovery with the public.
“It was a little chilly to start out, but the crowd was steady throughout the day,” said Tim Reinbott, director of field operations for CAFNR’s Agricultural Experiment Station. “We were thrilled to be able to share what makes CAFNR unique with so many people again this year. There’s nothing more exciting than seeing a child learn something new and get excited about agriculture.”
This year’s event highlighted CAFNR’s diverse agricultural work. Each of the six CAFNR divisions – animal sciences, biochemistry, applied social sciences, food systems and bioengineering, plant sciences, and natural resources – were represented.
“There’s so much more to agriculture than just corn and cows,” Reinbott said. “The South Farm Showcase was created to show just that.”
The South Farm Research Center was divided into three main areas with activities at each spot. Main Street included a variety of programs, including the Taste of Mizzou tent, Alisha’s Pink Pumpkin Painting Party, mule rides and a sunflower maze. There was also a herpetology area that included snakes, lizards, frogs and geckos. The turfgrass area gave attendees the opportunity to fly a kite, putt on a green and learn about the different type of grasses. The Equine Teaching Facility was home to several animals, including horses, pigs, sheep and cows. Guests could milk a cow, watch the foal parade, learn more about hawks and pet a pig.
Jefferson Farm and Garden was home to several more activities. There was an opportunity to fish, sit in tractors, walk through the butterfly house and smash pumpkins.
“There was definitely something for everyone at this year’s Showcase,” Reinbott said. “I also want to thank our volunteers who took the time to be a part of the event. Their passion for agriculture and willingness to share a Saturday is definitely contagious.”
For a closer look at South Farm Showcase, visit: flickr.com/photos/cafnr/albums/72157696099557970.