Maker's Long Acres hosts tour
Students observe as Maker's Long Acres owners, Kyle and Trina Johnson, share about farming and the origins of food during one of their classes.
(Courtesy Photo)
SAGLE — Piglets, goats and bunnies, oh my.
Those are just a few of the critters that will be making an appearance during the homeschool tour day at Makers Long Acres in Sagle. The class, which is open to the public, will explore the origins of food, and offer students a chance to meet farm animals.
“Kids can roll up their sleeves and assist in feeding, caring for animals, and even try their hand at milking and gathering eggs, if our goat ladies and chickens are ready,” owners Trina and Kyle Johnson said on the farm stand’s website.
Once the tour concludes, parents can explore the farm stand while children enjoy choosing free stickers or even emu feathers as souvenirs from their farm experience, Maker’s Long Acres owner, Trina Johnson said
The Johnsons have been offering classes on and off of their farm for several years. One week-long child-focused “ag-ucation” booth at Bonner County Fair has been instrumental in fostering their connection with the community, Johnson said.
“Ag-ucation is our passion and connecting families to their food supply is the cornerstone to all that we do here,” Johnson said.
Makers Long Acres hosts many classes and tours throughout the year, including two-day large animal processing workshops, ricotta cheese making, various livestock, 101 classes and many more.
“It's incredibly fulfilling to empower others to take control of their food sources,” she said. “Our commitment to connecting the community to their food is at the heart of everything we do. Whether it's teaching classes on-site or engaging with neighbors at county fairs, markets, and various events, we are passionate about helping others take control of their food supply.”
A highlight for the couple is seeing people inspired to raise their own livestock after witnessing their work on the farm firsthand.
“Additionally, it really is true — some of the best memories are made at the farm,” she said. “We can't overlook the highlights of the moments when children experience the joy of petting their favorite animals for the first time, snuggle newborn critters or marvel at the sight of our emus. The laughter that fills the air when they try their hand at milking one of our goats or cows adds to the wonder. These are the moments that make up a lifetime, and it's likely that these little kiddos will one day be telling their own children about the magical experiences they had here.”
The homeschool tour will be hosted at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 1, at Maker’s Long Acres, 21 Shepherd Lake Loop, Sagle. Pre-registration is required. Each family is $20 for up to 5 people.
“At Maker's Long Acres, we're honored to be a part of creating cherished memories that span generations,” Johnson said. “Through these experiences, we hope to inspire a greater appreciation for where our food comes from and empower our community to take control of their food supply. It's not just about the moments; it's about shaping a sustainable and fulfilling future for all.”
Information: makerslongacres.com/events-and-classes