On a hot, sweaty, day at the Great New York State Fair, air-conditioned buildings might seem like the best place to be. But there’s an important reason as to why you should explore the outside agriculture exhibits, instead.

Many don’t realize how enlightening it is to experience the farming culture of rural America and upstate New York.

At a time when our political climate is incredibly divisive, and the line between rural and urban America has never been more defined, we need to take time to understand each other.

Emily Smith, of Scootin’ Through Farm, said it’s meaningful whenever she sees people realize that their food doesn’t just come from Wegman’s. Things that are obvious to her, such as the difference between a cow and a heifer, are not so apparent to others.

“It’s nice having this opportunity to teach people,” said Smith, at the fair last week.

Taking time to learn more about local farmers not only fosters an appreciation for interesting walks of life, but also corrects misguided notions about rural communities.

While urban and rural paths lifestyles may seem different, we all have more in common than people frequently realize. William Andrew, 13, an owner of 15 goats, is a great example.

Goats were one of the many farm animals featured at the Great New York State Fair. Peter Morrissey | Environment Columnist

“I want to farm goats until I die,” Andrew said at the fair.

Andrew is ambition. He bought his first goat when he was 7 — he sees himself running his own farm and selling goat cheese.

We each have a duty to listen to our neighbor. The difference between a city kid and country boy isn’t as obvious as it might seem. So while the stables might not smell as good as the fried dough, the experience you’ll walk away with will be more valuable.

Peter Morrissey is a entrepreneurship and emerging enterprises and information management and technology dual major. His column appears bi-weekly. He can be reached at pmorriss@syr.edu.

Published on August 28, 2018 at 8:05 pm