A moment in time NJ State Fair snapshot

They say you can't rewind time-but Sussex County seems to have found a way to slow it down a bit-at least during the ten days of the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show/NJ State Fair. The Fair, held annually in the beginning of August, has a long heritage in the community. For the past seventy years,  the Sussex County agricultural community has set aside ten days to celebrate their heritage, showcase their accomplishments and come together to produce an event unlike any other-a County Fair rich in history, family entertainment and good old fashioned fun!

The Fair officially opens to the sound of a rooster crow which seems to magically cast a spell over the agricultural section of the Fairgrounds, transporting exhibitors,visitors, residents back to a time when life's rhythm, purpose and joy were far easier to discern and drink in.

With livestock barns filled with barn animals raised by local farm families and 4H club members, the Fairgrounds comes to life with a symphony of sound. The livestock and other 4H exhibits represent the best of the 4H members' project year. They're brought to the SC Fairgrounds in Augusta for exhibit, competition and pleasure. Chicken, sheep, cows, swine and goats that have been bred, born and raised by Sussex County 4H members are housed in several barn buildings which were erected thanks to the sweat equity, fundraising and careful management of generations past. The animals are shown in the livestock arena and judged by professional livestock judges throughout the week. Each species of farm animal are judged, awarded ribbons, trophies and premiums based on their quality, condition and breed characteristics as evaluated by the judge. After the Fair,  the animals return to the farm, where they will be cared for throughout the year. Some are bred to carry on or improve the overall quality of the farm's livestock production.
To the young exhibitors, the Fair is a culmination of a year's effort. 4H-er's are delighted to compete, learn, showcase and improve in their project area-with an eye on next year's event.  Anticipation of participating with their club members in "The Fair" offers a sometimes needed "incentive" to rise to the challenge of early morning feedings, barn cleaning and icy winter days-when it would be much nicer to stay snug under the covers.

Seasoned agriculturalists also have the opportunity to compete in equestrian events, grain and forage exhibits, flower and vegetable competitions, baking and canning competitions and more. Traditional and modern Home Ec. exhibits like: crafting, quilting and needle work round out the offerings in the Richards building- a large building erected for showcasing the talents of the community. Visitors have the additional opportunity to view and purchase photography and art submitted by community residents who capture the essence and beauty of Sussex County through their art. Many professional photographers and artists call Sussex County home. The diverse natural beauty of the region is a constant source of inspiration to those with creative talent.

The Fair ended on Sunday August 15th with a long overdue rain. As I made my way back to the field where I had parked my car, my attention was drawn to a young dad and his daughter. These Dairy exhibitors seemed impervious to the rainfall as they headed to the livestock trailer carrying trophies and tack. The young girl's blonde ponytail swung in synchronized motion to the tail of the young black and white calf trailing behind her on a lead.  I caught up to the trio in time to overhear her animated monologue about her time in the arena as her dad patiently listened and to hear his recollection of when, as a boy, he and his siblings showed their livestock at the Sussex County Farm and Horse Show. In that moment, as the rain fell on the pair, time paused and life and family was once what is used to be-they say all things change...but for a moment it was refreshing to know some things don't have to.

We live in a crazy, high-speed world that is too often chaotic and demanding. The pressures of the day don't escape farmers and their family, in fact, they can be more impactful in some ways. But wise folk know that heritage, roots and tradition can't be substituted or replaced-it's a treasure, a legacy and something worth preserving.
Thank you to the Sussex County Agricultural Community and residents for your community spirit, volunteer hours and passion. For seventy years your efforts to present an event that preserves our agricultural heritage and showcase the best of community and human spirit are a much needed and appreciated gift to fellow residents and visitors alike.

Sussex Naturally writer and founder of Dandelion Creative Marketing and Creative Services Group,  Nancy Hreha, has been a long time exhibitor, supporter and active participant in the NJ State Fair/Sussex County Farm and Horse Show.  She is a strong advocate of agriculture in New Jersey and specializes in agrimarketing and agritourism.

Hydroponic agriculture+Arthur&Friends=Sussex County Success story

What happens when a "small seed of an idea" is planted in a resource rich environment and nurtured with passion and dedication? Fantastic results with real benefits-in this case-Arthur and Friends.  
The IDEA: Giving our disabled community the workforce skills and training they need to be productive and produce a marketable commodity which benefits the larger community.  
The SOLUTION:  
*Make use of existing-though underutilized-greenhouse facilities through implementing a hydroponic production-growing plants without soil-operation which will grow marketable products that meet consumer demand for locally produced foods. 
*Equip the disabled population with specific skills and training needed to not only grow the produce, but also a business. 
*Welcome community involvement, support and exposure in a way that educates, sparks dialogue and builds a bridge between the disabled workforce and business.
*Meet consumer demand for safe, locally produced products for their table.  


The RESULT: Arthur and Friends-hydroponic agriculture which is actively producing a varied selection of fresh greens supplying local restaurants and family tables-year round. What began as an idea has developed into a model which can be reproduced and has attracted the interest of urban agriculturalists and environmentalists- who are seeking innovative ways to increase food production and feed a growing population.Hydroponic gardening is productive, green and space efficient-and offers a viable means to address the challenge.

How does it work? Recirculation of nutrient rich water in a climate controlled environment means little to no water waste, maximization of yield and- well- happy plants, which can supply a steady source of nutrition in areas where traditional agricultural practices are impractical or impossible.
Arthur and Friends is located in the greenhouse at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Augusta, NJ. The location is ideally situated- allowing workers easy access to public transportation- so they can independently get to work. The SC Fairgrounds is also a familiar location to many in the TriState Region. Best know as the home to New Jersey's largest annual agricultural fair- The NJ State Fair® Sussex County Farm and Horse Show, the Sussex County Fairgrounds hosts over 225,000 Fair visitors each year. With a full schedule of family fun ALL SEASON events, the Sussex County Fairgrounds is a popular destination throughout the region. The NJ State Fair®/Sussex County Farm and Horse Show was established as-and continues to be-a hub to the larger Sussex County Agricultural community-providing agricultural education, participation and plain old fun for generations of community residents and visitors alike. Arthur and Friends welcomes visitors as well as shoppers. All are invited to stop by and learn how hydroponics works or select from the wide assortment of freshly harvested greens for the family table.

The Sussex County Board of Agriculture recently honored Arthur and Friends, for their innovative contribution to the "mosaic of agriculture" in the Garden State. The changes in NJ Agriculture and the challenges faced by the industry are obvious to all. As the NJ Agricultural landscape continues to reshape itself, the SCBOA embraces the small operation whose innovation, passion and contributions are helping to address those changes and keep New Jersey Agriculture viable. Arthur's inspiring and heart felt acceptance remarks are a reminder to all-"Believe in your dreams, never-never give up-keep believing". Congratulations to Arthur and all his friends for the dream, vision and dedication to make it happen.




To learn more about Arthur and Friends check out the You Tube video link

Carol Decker Print Auction-Lusscroft Farm Wine & Cheese Event

LUSSCROFT FARM WINE AND CHEESE EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT:

Carol Decker-Nationally known wildlife artist and Sussex County resident has made this beautiful print-from her 2009 collection available for silent auction at the 5th Annual Lusscroft Wine and Cheese Event- Saturday, September 12.

Lusscroft Farm has a special place not only in the hearts of Sussex County residents, but in our nation's agricultural history.  In it's hay day, Lusscroft Farm achieved recognition for its contributions to the dairy industry.  Later the property became a research and education facility for many Rutgers University students and later still the farm was home to "unforgettable summer camp fun" for countless 4H members.

Lusscroft Farm features several outbuildings and a main house-referred to as the mansion- which are in great need of restoration and repair.  Funds generated through the 5th annual Wine and Cheese event-held at the farm- are dedicated to those efforts.  Proceeds from the winning bid on this beautiful print will be donated in their entirety to the cause. Opening bid starts at 200.00.  Auction closes at 3:15.

Tickets for the Wine and Cheese Event are still available.
The event features locally grown foods, prepared by the budding culinary masters of Sussex Technical High School (under the direction of their chef instructors), NJ wines offered through Cava Winery.  Special label selects from this 2009 fundraiser will be available for purchase at the event and locally at Cava Winery in Hamburg.  A generous portion of the proceeds will be donated to the restoration fund.

Music, a picturesque setting-ideal for photography-great food and friends- the 5th annual Lusscroft Farm Wine and Cheese Event.  Saturday, September 12th.

For specific details click on our link to the Sussex County Board of Agriculture website.

Sussex Fresh-The Farmer's Market at the Sussex Fairgrounds

Fresh is better. Better tasting and better for you...and you won't find a fresher selection of locally grown/locally produced products than those coming directly from the farm.

THE SUSSEX COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS- Sussex County's premier venue for outdoor entertainment-is also home to one of the county's premier Farmer's Markets.  

Open every Saturday, the Market is staffed by local farmers offering "fresh from the field" vegetables, flowers and fruits, along with locally produced meats, cheese, pies and more.

All that variety and goodness makes the Sussex County Farmer's Market a one stop destination for Sussex County Fresh.  

The Market is open from 10-3, every Saturday thru November.   

The Sussex County Fairgrounds is located on Plains Road Augusta, NJ.  It is easily accessed from Route 565 or 206.   

Exploring Sussex County this weekend?   A stop at the Farmer's Market delicious must.

*To learn more about agriculture in Sussex County click on the link to the Sussex County Board of Agriculture in the "sites to see" section of this blog)