(Editor’s Note: The following article was submitted to the Patriot by Kristi Gilyard Kelly. Parts were edited for print.)

October 18, Becker Public School teachers Mrs. Madsen (first graders) and Mrs. Lyons (kindergarteners) helped out with harvesting in the garden that was planted in the spring. In May, these same teachers brought their classes and planted sunflowers. Other volunteers planted the rest of the garden which included a variety of corn, soybeans, red potatoes, pumpkins, gourds, marigolds (to deter deer), and two cover crop areas. After they arrived, the students found a spot on the long benches, and proceeded to listen to Farmer Jean Johnson explain the entire garden harvest process. 

Great energy erupted as the children followed directions well to go harvest the pumpkins, gourds, potatoes, turnips, radishes and corn. A huge learning highlight included what a combine does — and thanks to Arnold’s of St. Cloud — the students could climb up into a combine and see a higher view of the barn and garden while sitting in the driver’s seat. 

The students also colored farm pictures, and answered farm questions while observing green lights illuminating the large education boards should they answer questions correctly. The activities established meeting goals of Farm Friends Barn.  The students learned about where their food comes from and preserving a part of Becker history.

If one listened carefully, one could hear comments from these new friends of the barn, saying, “I want to be a farmer,” “Look, my potato looks like a heart,” “Can I eat these soybeans?”, “I love gourds,” and “My corn is so pretty.”  Everyone received a bag with corn, pumpkin, and a gourd in it. 

At the wrap-up session, the students learned about how to make scarecrows. The scarecrows mysteriously resembled some of the adult volunteers. 

Farmer Jean and five adult volunteers, Mary Jo Cobb, Butch Woolhouse, Julie Dosh, Fred Graning, and Kristi Gilyard Kelly, kept the pace rolling quickly during the two hours of learning. Thanks to all of the sponsors and volunteers that agree — educating future generations is fun.  

In December, Mr. and Mrs. Santa will be dropping in to the barn and visiting with children of all ages. A Holiday Pot Sale is also in the works.  

Gratitude abounds for all the projects that have been completed, donations, and hundreds of volunteer hours, since the barn arrived on the property in September, 2019. 

Stay tuned for volunteer opportunities for 2023 projects. Everyone learns at the barn.