As part of a two-day program, 51 teachers enjoyed a lunch prepared by Mary Clay and Elisa’s Eatery, and heard a lecture about “Pollinators” by Sarah Cross Owen, Pollinator Specialist, WV Division of Natural Resources/Natural Resources Conservation Service, in the Fellowship Hall of the Alderson Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, June 13.

This Summer Agricultural Institute for Educators is sponsored by the Extension Service of WVU, the WV Farm Bureau Foundation, and the WVU Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design. Teachers can receive course credit through WVU with the completion of some additional work.

Joan Harman, Director of Public Relations, WV Farm Bureau, said, “We use this program to increase awareness of agriculture and its impact on our lives. We want to erase misconceptions and show support and appreciation for the farmers who have a very difficult job.”

Following the recommendations of participants from previous years, this year is an “all travel” program with stops at Hawk Knob Cidery and Meadery; the USDA Appalachian Plant Materials Center; Daniels Maple Syrup; Perkins Organic Dairy; and the groundskeeper at the Greenbrier Resort.

Dr. Deborah A. Boone, Professor, Ag and Extension Education at WVU, said, “Agriculture is the original STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) program since all of those disciplines are used throughout agricultural processes. Our goal is to improve agricultural literacy among teachers so they can share with their students.”