"We want to show the importance of agriculture in people's lives," said Robert Addis. He's president of the Cookshire Fair, now in its 169th year. Since 1845, the agricultural fairs at Cookshire have aimed at improving the quality of livestock and seeds. Over the years, agricultural tools and fairground attractions have become part of the event.
Addis pointed out that the Fair also serves to sensitize the public to the importance of promoting the potential of this premier industry. Indeed, agriculture is ever-evolving, and it has to nourish a population that is ever-growing. Today, the planet supports some 7.3 billion people.
For the moment, industrial agriculture and agriculture on a human and ecological scale suffice. But improving the yield in order to ensure that none of the inhabitants of Spaceship Earth go hungry is of primary importance. The agricultural fair aims to promote all that relates to this essential service, to give young children contact with farm animals, and to teach them how to care for animals.
That's why, Addis announced, this year the Fair will have a park that contains small animals such as calves, goats and rabbits so that children can become familiar with them. The president hopes that this contact will encourage children to ask questions. Organizers will be there at all times to answer questions and ensure safety.
