An activity designed to grow agricultural literacy in the community was recognized by Texas Farm Bureau (TFB).

Mason County Farm Bureau (CFB) hosted the annual Mason County Ag Day and introduced agricultural information to young students.

For these educational and agricultural promotion efforts, Mason CFB was one of five county Farm Bureaus recognized by TFB during the organization’s 91st annual meeting Dec. 6-8 in Round Rock. The award, County Activities of Excellence, recognizes unique, volunteer-driven programming by county Farm Bureaus.

The activity was also one of 24 county Farm Bureaus nationwide to receive a County Activities of Excellence Award from the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF).

About 180 students in kindergarten through second grade from public schools, a Christian school and homeschools across the county Attended the Ag Day.

This year, the educational stations included a farrier demonstrating the horse shoeing process and a water conservation demonstration, as well as presentations on animal byproducts and nutrition. Farm equipment was also on display.

“Every year, we host an ag day for kids and do something different each year,” Jeff Grote, Mason CFB president, said. “This year, we hosted stations at the county fair. The children were able to learn from a farrier, a custom farming operator, county AgriLife Extension agents, a rancher, Hill Country Cattlewomen and the county volunteer fire department.”

TFB’s Ag on the Go trailer was also at the event, and 4-H and FFA members helped set up and worked several stations.

“Each year, the teachers express their appreciation for the event. They’re grateful,” Grote said. “Through the ag day, students take home valuable lessons about agriculture and are introduced to different facets of agriculture some may have not seen.”

The county organization plans to continue hosting the event.

Mason CFB displayed a booth at the TFB 91st Annual Meeting in Round Rock. The county organization was also recognized on stage and received a $1,250 cash award and a County Activities of Excellence plaque.

Mason CFB will be highlighted during AFBF’s Annual Convention and Trade Show Jan. 24-29 in San Antonio.