AALP Class 13 North American Study Tour Day 1

Day one of Class 13’s North American Study Tour came to an end after a 10 hour trek to our first destination point in Columbus, Ohio. We covered a lot of Ohio landscape today, and surprisingly, it wasn’t all covered by corn. The group was surprised to see so many vineyards along the southern shore of Lake Erie.

For AALP Class 13 participants, the next 10 days promise not only sweltering heat, but also engaging and thought provoking speakers and tours representing US agriculture and rural issues.

“With the rural food craze back home and across North America, I’m interested in hearing from Lisa Davis with the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health about what connections they’re drawing between health, agriculture and local food, and how this may, or may not, be influencing local agricultural decisions,” says Sarah Brown from Toronto, Ontario.

Arik Theijsmeijer from Sudbury, Ontario is most looking forward to seeing the American Capitol. “I’ve never been to Washington D.C. and I can’t wait to tour the historical sites of the city. I think Americans tend to showcase their history more proudly than Canadians so there will be so much to see. The formal reception at the Canadian Embassy will be a highlight as well. I wonder what VIPs might be invited.”

This Wednesday the group will visit an Amish farmer in Berlin, Ohio, who farms organically and raises cattle on grass. We will also be treated to a back road, narrated tour and an authentic hearty-home cooked meal. Carol Maki from Thunder Bay says “What a great experience, farming the way my grandparents did, without all the modern technology. Truly getting back to your roots.”

Stay tuned for more daily updates from other Class 13 participants.

Sarah Brown, Carol Maki, Arik Theijsmeijer - AALP Class 13