Coshocton youth explore local agriculture

Coshocton County Youth Leadership participants had a firsthand look at the area’s agricultural roots during their Agricultural Program Day March 18.

The day began with a visit to Pearl Valley Cheese, where students learned about the company’s history and watched the cheese-making process in action. From milk delivery to finished product, the tour gave participants a better appreciation for the work behind one of the region’s most well-known businesses.

The group then traveled to JM Thomas Farms, which specializes in sheep and cows raised on 18 acres. They spoke to the class about the farm's involvement with 4-H. The morning wrapped up at Daugherty Farms, where they explored day-to-day farming operations and learned how local farms contribute to the county’s economy and way of life, as well as the upbringing of the farm itself.

Lastly, the class traveled to Lapp Farms and enjoyed a lunch sponsored by the Coshocton Soil and Water Conservation District before hearing a presentation on The Garden Patch Greenhouse’s growth and history from Debbie Gaumer and Kristy Liendecker. The day concluded with a final presentation from David Lapp and Pat Snyder, who shared the story behind Lapp Farms and information regarding the operations of Lapp Farms.

The experience gave students a closer connection to agriculture in Coshocton County, highlighting the people and businesses that help sustain it while inspiring future leaders to stay involved in the industry.

To learn more about Coshocton County Youth Leadership, email Executive Director Betsy Gosnell at lead@coshoctonfoundtion.org.

This column was written by CCYL class member JT Allison.