Berries & Beef: Farm Field Trips That Educate Students and Benefit Farmers
Extension Education
Madelyn Greathouse
Bushnell
Abstract
Hernando County spans approximately 323,700 acres, with over 5,000 acres dedicated to agriculture, including hay production, cow-calf operations, container nurseries, and fruit crops such as berries and citrus. According to the 2017 USDA Agricultural Census, the county’s agricultural market value exceeds $20 million. However, rapid urbanization threatens these operations, and their importance is often only truly recognized once they are gone. This shift presents an even greater challenge for Florida’s youth, many of whom have little to no exposure to agriculture. As a result, there is a growing disconnect between consumers and food production, leading to a lack of understanding and appreciation for the industry.
To bridge this gap, extension agents partnered with a local U-Pick farm to provide an educational experience for school groups. Students experienced farming firsthand, engaging their senses as they saw, smelled, and touched the environment while learning about food production and natural resource management. The program was designed to benefit both students and the farm owner. The farm aimed to increase weekday revenue and attract new customers through word-of-mouth marketing as students shared their experiences with their families. For Extension agents, the farm provided the perfect setting to teach students about cattle ranching, ecosystem services, and best management practices for pest control in berry crops. By highlighting the challenges that farmers face in food production, the program fostered a greater appreciation for the agricultural industry.
The program has demonstrated positive outcomes for both education and agritourism. In 2025, the farm has hosted three school visits, with three more scheduled through April, generating an additional $3,000 in revenue, excluding potential return visits from students’ families. On-site polling indicates that at least 90% of participants learned a new fact about farming or ranching, with many beginning their reflections with, “I didn’t know…” Students get to hand feed cattle and pick a pound of strawberries before they leave. This initiative shows how hands-on learning can connect kids with agriculture while also supporting local farmers. By combining education with agritourism, this program serves as a model for strengthening the bond between communities and the farms that feed them.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted only for display at AM/PIC. Poster is not to be judged, but the abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: Madelyn Greathouse, Laura Bennett
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Greathouse, M. Commercial Horticulture & Integrated Pest Management Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 33513
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Bennett, L. Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 33525