By Amy-Lynn Albertson

Rowan County Extension Director

On Aug. 10, more than 200 farmers, farm families and friends gathered at the Piedmont Research Station for a night of barbecue and bluegrass.

The Jones Sisters Band from Linwood played great music, complete with yodeling. The Silliman Family catered the event with delicious pork barbecue and slaw made with a family recipe.

N.C. Cooperative Extension partnered with the Piedmont Research Station to host the event.

“This was a night to celebrate agriculture and our community” said station Director Teresa Herman.

Sponsors Carolina Cat, Gerry Wood Dodge and James River Equipment brought tractors and trucks for folks to check out and kids to explore. Other sponsors included Carolina Farm Credit, Rowan County Farm Bureau, Lazy Five Ranch, Rowan County Soil and Water District, Back Creek Angus, Ranchside Veterinary Clinic, Rowan County Master Gardener Volunteer Association, Triangle Chemical Company and the NC Small Grain Growers Association.

A welcome was given by Dr. Mike Yoder, associate director and program leader for N.C. State University Extension.

The National Anthem was sung by young Liana Post and an invocation was given by dairy farmer Johnnie Moore.

Rowan County is home to over 1,000 farms covering 121,000 acres. During times of uncertainty with new tariffs on agricultural exports and nuisance lawsuits being filed against farms, it is important we remember where our food comes from. Farming is a major economic driver for our county and number one for our state. This event was a time to appreciate our neighbors and families and celebrate between the harvests.

Fair season is approaching and now is the time to get your entries ready. The Rowan County Agricultural Fair is Sept. 14-22. The deadline for entries is Sept. 7. The premium book with entry forms can be found on the web at www.rowancountyfair.net .