JO WADE introduced Leslie Martin Conwell, Executive Director of The Farm at Prophetstown, 
who gave us an “Update on Farm Activities”. She began by saying she loves her job. One of the first things she learned is that people love the animals. They are trying to populate the farm with heritage animals. The DNR – who runs Prophetstown State Park where The Farm is located – would like to emphasize the historical aspect of agriculture. While many organizations are trying to attract young people and children, The Farm has many young families visiting. The children love the animals. She said that retired and current farmers are also important visitors and advisors.
The Gibson Farmhouse is beautifully decorated and classes are being taught on many aspects of farm life in the 1920’s. Farm to Table Dinners are offered several times a year to showcase the produce raised on the farm and how it makes great meals.
The Farm is funded by the hotel/motel tax in Tippecanoe County, memberships, sponsorships and contributions. A $50 membership provides free entrance to the park and The Farm.
Conwell is looking forward to partnering with more organizations in the coming year, attracting more campers and having more animals. They specifically need a bush hog, a feed grinder, paint for the buildings and a teamster to drive harness trained draft horses. There are also many other volunteer opportunities.