hildene farms

Now in its 40th year in Genesee County, Kinderfarmin' may hold a unique spot in New York -- the last event of its kind in the state.

What started as a dairy farm day for first graders evolved into a more comprehensive introduction to farming for kindergartners, according to Natasha Sutherland of Stein Farms in Le Roy and one of a small group of local farmers who organize the annual event.

This year, it was held at Hildene Farms in Pavilion, the same location it has been held at for the past few years.

"We talk about ecosystems, habitat lifecycles, the kids meet farmers, and it takes up the entire day's curriculum so the teachers get a day off," Sutherland said.

The event is supported by donations at the Celebrate Ag Dinner and by support from Dairy Farmers of America, Upstate Niagara, Genesee County Soil and Water, and Farm Credit East.

More than 700 students from Genesee County visited the farm on Wednesday.

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Press Release:

Spring has arrived, and with it comes Genesee County’s Farm Bureau’s annual event, Kinderfarmin! We are ecstatic to be able to bring this wonderful tradition to our kindergarten students and families! Kinderfarmin will be held on Wednesday, June 5, at Hildene Farms in Pavilion. 

This event, in one form or another, has been happening for over 40 years in Genesee County and has become a staple for classrooms. Kinderfarmin’ has been recognized by the American Farm Bureau Federation as an “Event of Excellence.”

This day attracts over 600 kindergarten students from ten school districts. Including teachers, chaperones and a hundred volunteers, the host farm will have over 1000 visitors in a single day. For this one day, this local dairy farm will continue to dairy but also be transformed into a classroom with hands-on learning stations and guided tours.

Genesee County Farm Bureau partners with roughly 20 local businesses and organizations to provide a unique experience that is both fun and educational for all ages. We aim to highlight all the effort that goes into making our favorite dairy products like milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, and of course Ice Cream!

Our field trip is FREE for every student and would not be possible without the generosity of our many sponsors and local farmers.

Kinderfarmin will be held on Wednesday, June 5, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Hildene Farms, 10972 Roanoke Rd, Wyoming. For more information, contact Natasha Sutherland at 585-356-5560.