Farm Fest is returning to 3 PillarZ Farm for the second year to help promote and educate the public on agriculture.

The event, which spans two days this Friday and Saturday, is “designed to increase access to the farm setting for youth,” according to Executive Director Julie Zajac.

“We’ve lost one to two generations of farmers in the U.S., especially dairy farmers, so we’ve got to get kids on the farm making memories and sparking their interest in careers in farming and agriculture,” she said. “We also need to increase community awareness of local farmers and encourage folks to buy local as much as possible. As we all are painfully aware, many kids do not know where their food comes from.”

Friday is dedicated to providing workshops through groups such as the PSU Extension and Penn/West Clarion Small Business Development Center between 1 and 4 p.m. While most workshops are free, registration is required as some class sizes are limited and one class – a watercolor workshop – does charge a fee. Registration can be completed through Eventbrite or on the farm’s website at www.3pillarzfarm.org/farmfest.

Saturday is dedicated to community education and family activities.

Educational programs include a soil presentation by the Rodale Institute.

“They are based in Kutztown, north of Philadelphia, and known globally as leaders in regenerative organic agriculture,” Zajac said. “Many people have questions about the definition of ‘organic,’ what it takes to get organic certification as a farmer, and whether it’s worth it. I think our corner of the state has a great opportunity to transition to organic given the size of farmland and more folks are seeking healthier food.”

Penn State Extension will offer presentations on pesticide application, farmer stress, food preservation and healthy food preparation.

Warren County 4-H and Clymer Future Farmers of America will also be on-hand for presentations.

Food, beverages, children’s activities, a petting zoo, art activities, live music and other activities will be featured from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

“Our health partners include Corry LECOM, which will provide health screenings, and Presque Isle Mind Body Wellness Center, which will provide 5-min. massages and share alternative medicine techniques such as Reiki, etc,” Zajac said. “We are thrilled to have live music and art at this year’s event as well. We have local favorites, Tyler McClain and Slim and Red, with headliner, Jeff Corle of ‘Empty Barn’ fame.”

Parking and admission on Saturday is free.

3 PIllarZ Farm is a new 501(c)(3) non-profit, although the organization has participated in “small on-farm events.”

“Our events have increased in size steadily over the past 3 years,” Zajac said.