The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) welcomed more than 1,000 attendees to its inaugural Harvest at the Farm event on Saturday, October 17. The celebration, held on the college’s Gateway Center grounds, offered a variety of fall-themed activities and showcased the efforts of students in UACCB’s Bank of Cave City Farm and Ranch Management program.
Participants enjoyed hayrides, barrel train rides, a petting zoo, and children’s activities, with free lunch provided during the morning festivities. Community members also had the opportunity to purchase mums and pumpkins grown on-site by students applying their agricultural coursework in practical settings.
“Seeing more than 1,000 people come together for Harvest at the Farm was a wonderful reminder of the connection between UACCB and the communities we serve,” said UACCB Chancellor Brian Shonk. “We are especially proud of our students, who had the opportunity to share the results of their hard work with the community.”
The event also garnered significant community support, with sponsorship from the Bank of Cave City, Merchants and Planters Bank, Citizens Bank, White River Health, Bad Boy Mowers, Econo-Mart Pharmacy, Ballistic Specialties, and the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranches.
Due to the strong turnout, Chancellor Shonk announced plans for the event to return in 2027. The next Harvest at the Farm is scheduled for October 16 of that year.
The celebration not only strengthened UACCB’s connection to the region but also provided a platform to highlight local agricultural education and community involvement.