Bonnie Cranmer
Contributing writer
Good health begins with education. In Craig County High School, teacher Emily Nolan is leading students through important lessons with FFA, Future Farmers of America. The efforts were recently recognized by the Craig County Rural Health Care Corporation. The organization has the mission to promote health and wellness, provide access to primary care for the ill and injured, and ensure affordable healthcare for the Craig community. The donation of $5,000 was made to Craig’s FFA to continue their work, encouraging young people to continue in agriculture.
The Craig County Farm Lab is only one of the projects of the FFA. Tiffany Ratliff is a sophomore in the program. In honor of her grandmother, Ratliff created “Pearl’s Pantry” which is a farm stand open dawn to dusk at the school. Local produce and fresh eggs are available with a pay-what-you-can honor system. The group gathered donations for the wood and built the farm stand. Ratliff hopes the program will continue after she graduates.
Access to local food is one of several challenges to health in a rural community. The Craig County Farmers Market on Main Street is one solution with a central location for growers to reach consumers with their products. The agricultural heritage of the region is alive and thriving, demonstrated by the success of the first season. A diverse range of opportunities are available for young farmers to get involved.
From cattle to trout, honey to hogs, flowers to eggs, Craig County farmers are producing agricultural products that meet the needs of the community. Providing the education for young people who want to remain in the community the opportunity, the knowledge and resources, to make that a reality, is the goal.
The Craig County FFA recently attended the 97th Annual National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, IN. Workshops included programs on career development, industry opportunities, new technologies and leadership in the agricultural sector. The educational component for both students and teachers recognized balance for wellness and entrepreneurial skills as important parts of the puzzle of life. The club returned to Craig full of ideas and enthusiasm.
To learn more about the Craig County FFA or to make a donation contact Emily Nolen, enolen@craig.k12.va.us.
