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FarmFest: From Soil to Supper

Extension Education

Geni Payne
Regional Extension Agent II - 4-H
Alabama Cooperative Extension System
Phenix City

Abstract

Farm Fest, an annual agricultural awareness, education, and networking event in Russell County, Alabama, has grown significantly since its inception in 2023. The program aims to connect local producers, educate consumers, support beginner farmers, and engage youth in agricultural activities. The 2025 event, held at the Fort Mitchell Historic Site, attracted 300 participants and featured an expanded lineup of educational opportunities, interactive exhibits, and hands-on learning experiences. Key activities included an indoor vendor space showcasing agricultural resources and partner agencies, a pop-up vegetable market, a mobile health unit for youth, and a multi-county 4-H Chicken Que BBQ competition. Ignite Educational Sessions provided expert-led discussions on critical farming topics such as estate planning, seed starting, backyard poultry, fire ant control, and farm business development. The Russell County Cattlemen’s Association, along with local culinary arts students, contributed to the event by offering a grilled hamburger lunch. The 4-H Chicken Que BBQ competition saw increased participation, with nine youth contestants compared to five in 2024. Through this contest, youth enhanced their understanding of food safety, nutrition, and cooking techniques while demonstrating grilling skills under timed conditions. A detailed evaluation conducted in 2025 provided insights into attendee demographics and interests. Of the 35 evaluations received, 51% of respondents were Russell County residents, while others traveled from neighboring counties and states. Most identified as home gardeners, with 57% attending primarily for gardening resources and educational opportunities. Ignite Sessions were highly valued, particularly those on seed starting and farm demonstrations, and 33% of attendees indicated plans to implement gardening techniques learned at the event. Farm Fest continues to be a vital initiative led by the Russell County Extension in partnership with local agricultural organizations. The program’s expanding reach and impact highlight its importance in fostering self-sustainability, strengthening local food systems, and supporting the next generation of farmers and agricultural enthusiasts.

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: Geni Payne, Jacob Bailey, Ajoa Brothers, Dani Carroll, Mitzi Clayton, Jennifer Davidson, Chip East, Elizabeth Garcia, Cristy Hicks, Janet Johnson, Katie Keown, Kyle Marable, Brigid McCrea, Regina Meadows, Gina Nimmo, Deborah Stewart, Jill Wachs, Shavita Wood
  1. Payne, G. Regional Extension Agent II - 4-H, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Alabama, 36867
  2. Bailey, J. Extension Agent, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, Alabama, 36804
  3. Brothers, A. Extension Agent, alabama cooperative extension sysem, Alabama, 36804
  4. Carroll, D. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36804
  5. Clayton, M. CED, ACES, Alabama, 36027
  6. Davidson, J. CED, ACES, Alabama, 36867
  7. East, C. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36804
  8. Garcia, E. Agent Assistant , ACES, Alabama, 36867
  9. Hicks, C. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36804
  10. Johnson, J. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36867
  11. Keown, K. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36804
  12. Marable, K. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36867
  13. McCrea, B. Specialist, ACES, Alabama, 36867
  14. Meadows, R. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36867
  15. Nimmo, G. Agent , ACES, Alabama, 36804
  16. Stewart, D. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36804
  17. Wachs, J. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36027
  18. Wood, S. Extension Agent, ACES, Alabama, 36867