When Heidi Jeffers called me last week and suggested that I attend the Farm Heritage Day Festival at Hunter Cattle Farm near Stilson, I immediately conjured a mental picture of the event. I underestimated the attendance it would generate.
        Held Saturday, the event played host to thousands who came to get a taste of a working farm. Jeffers, who serves as the executive director of the Statesboro Convention and Visitors Bureau, told me what a "neat" event this was.
        First, not only was the crowd tremendous, they came from near and far. I met people from Canada, Hawaii, Missouri, South Carolina and Alabama. As evidenced by the car tags in the parking area, Chatham and Effingham counties were heavily represented.
        Farm owner Del Ferguson started the event three years ago, and is truly amazed at how quickly it has grown.
        "This is our third year, and we have gone from a few hundred to a few thousand," he said. "People really seem to enjoy spending a day out on a farm. The kids love the animals, to run and play, and just enjoy themselves. It is rewarding to watch people having such a good time."
        Hunter Cattle is a family affair with Ferguson, his wife, and three of their children heavily involved. The farm raises grass fed beef, pastured pork, free range poultry and eggs, and free range turkeys. They have constructed a facility to process their own meat selling it locally and around the state. Governor Nathan Deal recently presented Hunter Cattle with the "Flavor of Georgia Award" for winning in the 2013 meat category.
        The farm is also in the fast growing agritourism business.
        "Because our friends and customers love coming out to the farm so much, we are hosting agritourism events, parties, and started renting out barn lofts for farm stays," he said. "In an effort to teach the next generation about agriculture and food, we also offer curriculum based educational tours for schools, scout troops, churches and any group that wants to experience the farm life."
        In talking to Ferguson, it is quickly evident that he and his family are very passionate about their farm and sustainability, and if the crowd this past Saturday is any indication, the public is clearly very interested in what they are doing.
        So, until next Tuesday, I bid you au revoir.
        Got a scoop for Jan? Email her at: jmoore@statesboroherald.com