Local and county fairs provide people the opportunity to connect with their area’s agricultural community. Nicolina Foti with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Saratoga County, joined Marisa Jacques in studio, to talk about how fairs also provide a way to connect with a new generation of farmers. Foti said members of 4-H prepare all year to show all types of animals in a variety of categories. This opportunity is not just for children whose families are in the agricultural industry. Foti said 4-H helps educate, coordinate and connect young people with the space they need to raise and train their animals. Young people interested in farming are also exposed to new technology, from drones and robotics to animal and veterinary sciences, that Foti said inspire many to continue their education and enter the field of agriculture.

4-H programs are available across New York state. For more information, and to connect with 4-H in your county, click here.

You can watch the full interview with Nicolina Foti in the video player above. And be sure to tune in for a look inside the biggest issues impacting upstate New York on In Focus with JoDee Kenney — every Sunday on Spectrum News 1.