After avoiding construction in Kirtland, I found myself at the Farmpark ready to start my project at 8:45 this morning. Immediately, I was put to work in the Well Bred Shed mucking out the sheep and goat pens. Then, once I learned the morning routine of which pens to clean, who to feed, and what needed washing I was introduced to other volunteers and employees. The other senior project in the barn was Eric, who is wrapping up his project this next week before he graduates from Fairport. His main project focus is the equine aspect of the park. Another notable person is Samantha, who is a regular volunteer at the Farmpark that I had the pleasure to work with today. My project's sponsor, Ann Petersen, was very busy setting up the barn in preparation for one of the Farmpark's biggest events, Horsefest. Nevertheless, she was always available to guide me throughout the day and answer any questions I had.
Since my essential question has to do with the importance of educating society about agriculture, I had many opportunities to observe school groups (that mainly consisted of kindergarten aged children) as they made their way through the Well Bred Shed and attended demonstrations such as sheep shearing. But, because it was my first day and a very busy day for the park due to Horsefest, I had to do quite a bit of manual labor such as moving pens, cleaning bleachers, moving animals, and transporting machinery. The most enjoyable (and hilarious) part of my day had to be when we were moving the Jacob Sheep and her lamb. She did not want to leave the pen and it took three people to successfully carry her. But, being the new girl, I got to hold her baby while everyone else struggled carrying her.
Although today was interesting, I hope that tomorrow will be more orientated toward my project's essential question once the rush to prepare for Horsefest dies down and less manpower is necessary for the day to run smoothly.
Thanks, Jenny!
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