By Andi Anderson
Visitors to the Ohio State Fair will have a unique opportunity to learn more about animal agriculture through educational barn tours organized by The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES). The initiative is designed to help people better understand livestock care, food production, and the importance of agriculture in everyday life.
The guided tours will be led by students from the CFAES Department of Animal Sciences. Through these tours, visitors can explore livestock barns, observe animals up close, and gain insights into modern farming practices. The program aims to answer common questions about how animals are raised, why specific housing methods are used, and the role livestock plays in food production.
Fairgoers can register for a tour at the Animal Hub tent located inside the Ohio Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) Animal Life and Learning Center in the Ohio Showcase Building. Registration is also available through QR codes displayed throughout the livestock barns.
During the tours, students will explain the significance of different animal species to Ohio agriculture. They will discuss animal welfare practices, livestock management, and the activities taking place during the exhibition. Visitors will also have the opportunity to ask questions and interact with students who are studying animal sciences.
“This program extends the reach of CFAES by sharing information about proper care of animals, the significance of livestock to family businesses and youth development, and the many career opportunities within animal agriculture,” said Maurice Eastridge, professor and Ohio State University Extension dairy specialist in the CFAES Department of Animal Sciences.
The tours also introduce visitors to the teaching, research, and outreach efforts of CFAES while giving students a chance to share their educational experiences. Organizers believe these conversations can help improve public understanding of modern agriculture and livestock production.
Many questions raised by visitors in previous years focused on topics such as animal genetics, livestock housing systems, dairy production, and animal welfare. These discussions provided valuable learning experiences and encouraged greater awareness of farming practices.
“They give our students an opportunity to explain animal genetics, how farmers protect animals and their offspring during birth, and many of the practices used to care for livestock,” he said.
In addition to leading tours, students will care for animals housed at the OVMA Animal Life and Learning Center and answer visitor questions throughout the day. Families can also participate in the popular “Milk a Cow” activity, which offers a hands-on introduction to dairy farming.
Through interactive exhibits and educational tours, visitors will gain a better understanding of livestock care, food production, agricultural careers, and the important contribution of animal agriculture to Ohio’s communities and economy.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-digitalvision
Categories: Ohio, Education, Livestock