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.

NJ Audubon launches njwildlifetrails.org...come explore!

You already know that Sussex Naturally is wild about all the outdoor recreation possibilities Sussex County offers. And we admit, our Green Happenings-h20 team is still discovering the best trails for wildlife watching and exploring- but now, thanks to our friends at New Jersey Audubon- we can all spend less time researching and more time exploring!

NJ Audubon has announced the launch of NJ Wildlife Trails on line! This great interactive tool allows expert or novice to discover and enjoy the best wildlife trails and viewing spots in the Skylands region and throughout the state.

 

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NEVER HEARD OF New Jersey Audubon?
You've missed out! NJ Audubon is made up of people passionate about preserving and learning about New Jersey's natural treasures-it's diverse wildlife, bird population and habitats. NJA members work hard to preserve and conserve the Garden State's natural resources and to develop innovative projects to protect, preserve and utilize those resources.
NJA is staffed by experts, dedicated to their field and inspired by a passion for preserving the delicate biodiversity that we depend on. NJA members are folks just like you- who enjoy and appreciate the amazing natural world around us-whether observing nature in the wild or in your backyard.
NJA Centers are easy to access and a great place to find reference books, equipment and educational materials for young wildlife enthusiast of any age.
Check out their parent site www.njaudubon.org.

BIRDING AND WILDLIFE TRAILS  in print:


NJA has been developing the Wildlife Trail Guide series for some time. To date, three regional guides, in addition to the online site have been published. These printed guides are easy to use and full of info. They're great to toss into a backpack- whether you're on a day trip or weekend excursion. These guides have gotten outstanding reviews from our readers.
Now the folks at NJA have gone a step beyond the printed guides and has created an outstanding online application that offers regional trips and trails.  Spotting wildlife in their native habitat isn't always easy-unless you know where to look (and what to look for). NJA has included tips on both so your experience will be even more enjoyable.
Not quite up for a hike? Driving tours have been included in the online version!
How great is that!
Here's a preview of what you'll find when you visit the site:

Clearly labeled driving tours are one click away. Pick a region, click on the colored bar and up pops  everything you need to know including area highlights and wildlife and natural wonders you can anticipate seeing.  What a great resource for the casual or expert explorer or for classrooms and environmental groups!

We at Green Happenings-H2o, appreciate that this site is not overly complex and doesn't overwhelm with information-after all, who wants to spend time in front of the computer when there's so much to see and do right outside the door! The designers of www.njwildlifetrails.org have added enough tools and info to create a perfect starting point...and then created a forum for sharing personal experiences, connecting with others, or linking to more resources and info...at your own pace and pleasure!

Thanks New Jersey Audubon- for making it so easy for anyone to start exploring!