Albion FFA brings mini farm to school for 800 elementary kids

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – These Albion second-graders meet “Nugget,” an 8-week-old beef calf during today’s Mini-Farm Day at Albion.

The FFA has run the event for many years, arranging to have farm equipment and animals outside the high school.

FFA member Nate Gibson, in back, talked with students about Nugget, which currently weighs 225 pounds and should top 1,500 when its fully mature.

“It’s about inspires young minds on where their food comes from,” Gibson said. “It’s always a good time.”

Nugget is owned by FFA President Kaitlynn Basinait and her family.

These second-graders throw small bales of hay, a new activity at the Mini-Farm Day.

Students in Mr. David Plewinski’s second grade class meet “Kevin,” a cowhorse owned by Darren Roberts of Kent. Kevin competes nationally at cow-sorting events.

Elliott Beyrle, a junior, talks with students about Kevin.

Students meet a rabbit named “Dot” inside the FFA’s ag shop. The rabbit is on loan for the day from the Orleans/Niagara BOCES.

FFA member Drew Pritchard introduces some of the kids to two goats brought to school by Kaitlynn Basinait and her family.

FFA members Brayden Snook, center, and Logan Scott, left, talk with student about a fertilizer sprayer used in the spring to energize crops. Bennett & Sons in barre brought the sprayer to school for the Mini-Farm Day.

A black lab “Henry” was popular with the kids. Henry is a hunting dog owned by Kaitlin Bennett, a member of FFA.