Learning Tree Farm celebrates 40th Anniversary

How to go

What: Learning Tree Farm Celebration Party

When: June 9, 1–4 p.m.

Where: Learning Tree Farm, 3376 South Union Road, Jefferson Twp.

For more information: The public is invited, but reservations are necessary. Call (937) 866-8650, or email dbray@learningtreefarm.org

The Learning Tree Farm in Jefferson Township started on a shoestring budget as an effort to educate children about where their food comes from.

Forty years later founders Jean Ryan and Sally Keyes are celebrating the successful endeavor that has allowed about 200,000 school children to visit and experience the farm. On June 9, the public is invited to a free Celebration Party at the farm.

“It’s an opportunity for us to thank the public and our supporters,” said Dudley Bray, Executive Director of Learning Tree Farm. “Sally and Jean… felt that having a natural learning environment outdoors encouraged kids to learn. They provided a hands-on experience.”

Ryan and Keyes rented and then bought the 1829 farm in 1973. Initially, Ryan and Keyes lived on the farm in a primitive house that lacked water and electricity. They left their full-time jobs and dedicated themselves to opening up the farm for visitors. Farm animals like chickens, ponies and goats were available for school children to touch and interact with.

Tragically, the Farm’s small ponies were attacked and killed by a pack of dogs a few years ago. The farm continues to enrich the children’s experience by borrowing cows and horses from a local farmer.

“We now have one-full time employee and nine part-time seasonal employees and we offer five major programs that mirror the school curriculum,” said Bray. “I love this job. I used to volunteer in the garden and I love the animals. I grew up in Arizona and spent most of my weekends and summers working on a cattle ranch.”

Numerous school districts have field trips to visit Learning Tree Farm on an annual basis. In addition to working with the animals, children learn about organic gardening and rain barrels, nature and sustainability.

“Their favorite things are chasing the chickens and gathering their eggs and riding the tire swing on one of the hiking trails,” said Bray. “We’ve opened the farm up for people to visit from sunrise to sunset, so that children can return on weekends with their families.”