Industry Buzz
March 27 2013 11:10 AM

    2013 Breakfast on the Farm events highlight five farms



    2013 Breakfast on the Farm events highlight five farms


    MI State University logoBreakfast on the Farm has grown immensely since 2009, when the Michigan State University (MSU) Extension program was first held. With the continued support of local and statewide businesses and organizations, Breakfast on the Farm has reached more than 40,500 children and adults, who have been able to learn firsthand where their food comes from.

    Interested host farms commit to participating in Breakfast on the Farm in December; applications are detailed, and accommodations are required for thousands of visitors, but the results are rewarding, says Nancy Thelen, MSU Extension educator.

    "The farms that participate in hosting an event really get a lot out of it," she said. "They enjoy opening their farms to consumers and showing them what modern agricultural production is all about."

    At the event, farmers showcase what they do to produce safe and wholesome food. Children and adults come from all over to experience modern farm life and learn how their food is produced.

    "When farmers interested in hosting a Breakfast on the Farm complete an application, it is reviewed by the statewide Breakfast on the Farm advisory council, which selects the host farms so as to have programs in various locations around the state," Thelen said. "MSU Extension staff members visit with each family to answer questions and brainstorm on potential planning committee members. The local committees help to plan each educational event."
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    The dates and Breakfast on the Farm host farms for 2013 are:

    • June 15, Reid Dairy Farm LLC, Jeddo (St. Clair County).

    • July 13, Walt Dairy Farm, Coopersville (Ottawa County).

    • Aug. 17, Humm Farm LLC, Breckenridge (Gratiot County).

    • Sept. 7, Black Locust Farms LLC, Stanton (Montcalm County).

    • Sept. 21, Ferry Farms LLC, Litchfield (Hillsdale County).

    To find out more about Breakfast on the Farm, to learn how to apply to be a host farm or to see pictures from past events, please visit www.breakfastonthefarm.com.

    Questions can be directed to Nancy Thelen at 734-222-3825 or thelenn@anr.msu.edu, or Ashley Kuschel at 586-337-4985 or kuschela@anr.msu.edu.

    03.26.2013