Utah County Commission honors 30 years of Farm Field Days with unanimous resolution

The Utah County Commission on March 22 adopted a resolution recognizing 30 years of Utah County Farm Field Days, praising the program’s role in agricultural education and thanking volunteers and local farming organizations for their support.

The resolution, read aloud by the meeting facilitator, said the program has been a long-standing part of the county’s agricultural heritage and noted that over the past 30 years it has reached an estimated 150,000 second-graders through hands-on farm experiences. The measure cited support from the Utah County Farm Bureau, FFA chapters, Utah State Extension, 4‑H and a range of commodity groups.

Dean Minor, retired from Utah State University Extension, thanked the commission for the recognition and highlighted students’ positive reactions to demonstration stations, including the bee station. "You can see how much the kids enjoy it," Minor said.

Chris Riley, vice president of the Utah County Farm Bureau, described the logistical effort behind the program and thanked private farms and venues such as Harvard Farms and the American Fork equestrian center for hosting events. "We really believe in what we’re trying to do in educating these kids," Riley said, noting volunteers often help despite difficult spring weather.

Belva Parr, co-chair of Farm Field Days, said the program runs with significant volunteer support. "We have between 50 and 60 volunteers a day," Parr said, and invited commissioners to a VIP recognition event for original organizers.

Unidentified Speaker 1 moved to approve the resolution; Unidentified Speaker 3 seconded. The commission vocalized "aye" and the meeting facilitator confirmed the motion passed unanimously. The commission also complimented the program’s illustrations and photos used in outreach materials.

The commission then opened the floor for public comment before adjourning later in the meeting.