Hillary P. Carnley, Area Livestock & Forages Agent
Throughout the 2024–2025 school year, the Allendale County Office partnered with Save the Children to offer a unique agriculture enrichment at Allendale-Fairfax Elementary School. Approximately 70 students participated in this program, held on Wednesdays, where they explored the world of agriculture and learned about the many products that come from farms.
Each month, students focused on a different crop, discovering the various products made from it. As part of the fun, the students also “adopted” a class pet—a Jersey calf named Zoe—through the Adopt A Cow program sponsored by Discover Dairy. Monthly updates about Zoe helped students learn about the dairy industry in a fun and engaging way.
Over the course of the year, students explored a wide variety of agricultural topics, including pumpkins, Christmas trees, wheat, maple syrup, and cane syrup. They had hands-on experiences such as examining different types of pumpkins and even making “pumpkin pie in a bag.” When learning about Christmas trees, students discovered how they are grown and harvested. They also discussed the process of growing wheat and the many food products it yields. A sweet highlight was tasting and comparing maple syrup and cane syrup.
In addition to agriculture, the program featured a science and cooking series led by UGA Extension Agents Meridith Meckel and Terri Black. During these sessions, students explored topics such as bacteria and germs, homogeneous and heterogeneous mixtures, and the pH levels in fruits and vegetables. They also learned about healthy eating and tried out new recipes.
The school year wrapped up with lessons on embryology and pollinators—capping off a fun, educational, and enriching experience for all involved.
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.
