Matanuska Experiment Farm showcases agriculture in Aug. 8 event

Bobbing for vegetables is always a fun activity at Ag Day at the Matanuska Experiment Farm.

Alaska Agriculture Appreciation Day, set for Aug. 8 at the Matanuska Experiment Farm, will highlight the wide variety of agricultural endeavors in the 49th state. Think small county fair, open house, farmers’ market and educational opportunity rolled into one.

On the agenda are a goat-milking demonstration, old-fashioned games for children, petting zoo, prize giveaways, hay wagon rides, a GPS activity and live music. Special activities include a “sheep to shawl” demonstration by the Mat-Su Fiber Arts Guild. There will also be demonstrations on how to grow peonies, deal with invasive plants, recycle and make tinctures and lotions from local plans. The event is free but attendees may wish to bring money to purchase food and crafts from vendors.

The farm started hosting the family-friendly day a few years ago to share the work conducted there with friends and neighbors, promote agriculture and provide a fun outing for people in the Matanuska Valley.

The farm, located at 1509 S. Georgeson Drive, is a research facility of the UAF School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences and the Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station. The event, which runs from noon to 6 p.m. Aug. 8, is hosted by UAF’s School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences and the UAF Cooperative Extension Service.

Animals are popular with children and adults at the event.