Farm Tour Creates Awareness In One Of The Fastest Growing Counties In Florida
Extension Education
James Davis
County Extension Director
UF/IFAS Extension Sumter County
BUSHNELL
Abstract
Agriculture provides a significant impact to the state of Florida. In 2015, agriculture along with the food industry, and natural resources provided over $132 billion to the state’s economy. Sumter County is one of the fastest growing counties in Florida. Due to development, the size of farms within the county are decreasing, but the number of small farms is increasing. Total number of farms is approximately 1,307. According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, market value of all agricultural products sold from Sumter was $54,457,000. Due to the increasing development, agriculture awareness is critical in keeping the population aware of the origin of local food. Objective: Surveyed participants attending Farm City and farm tours will demonstrate at least a 40% gain in knowledge on local agriculture as measured by a pre and posttest. Participants attended a one-day tour at a local farm, hosted by Farm City. Farm City partners included UF/IFAS Extension, Farm Bureau, and Sumter County Economic Development. The location was Whispering Oaks Winery. This local winery grows blueberries on-site to use in their homemade wine. Participants enjoyed a history of Agriculture in Sumter County by Farm Bureau, presentations by UF/IFAS Extension faculty, and lunch provided by Sumter County Economic Development. Participants also toured the distillery and learned the process of making local wine. Results: Surveyed participants (n=53) who attended the Sumter County Farm City Tour demonstrated a 43% gain in knowledge of Sumter County agriculture. As a result of attending the 2021 Farm City Tour, 100% (n=53) of surveyed participants stated they now have a better understanding of agriculture/natural resources in Sumter County and 91% (n=53) of surveyed participants stated they will attend a future Farm City Tour.
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Authors: James Davis, Laura Bennett , Norma Samuel , Frank Calascione , Anna Jameson
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Davis, J. Multi-County Extension Director, UF/IFAS EXTENSION SUMTER COUNTY, Florida, 335138716
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Bennett , L. Livestock Agent , UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County , Florida, 33525
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Samuel , N. Florida-Friendly Landscaping Agent , UF/IFAS Extension Sumter County , Florida, 33513
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Calascione , F. Director Economic Development , Board of Sumter County Commissioners , Florida, 34785
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Jameson , A. Owner , Brite Leaf Citrus Nursery, LLC , Florida, 33538