The wheat industry was abuzz with activity this past week in preparation for the Urban Wheat Field project, scheduled to be on display in Washington, D.C., this Thursday and Friday, Sept. 23 and 24.
The project will bring a quarter-acre of live, growing wheat just steps from the U.S. Capitol, along with a full-sized combine, multiple demonstration flour mills and a mobile baking laboratory. The event will be staffed by wheat growers from around the country and experts in the areas of milling, baking and nutrition.
The D.C. experience will be the second such venture by the Wheat Foods Council, a grower-governed and grower-supported nutrition education group. The first Urban Wheat Field was held in New York City in 2008, reaching thousands of urbanites, many of whom know little about farming and some of whom had never seen a growing agricultural product.
Over the past few months, NAWG, U.S. Wheat Associates, many state wheat associations and commissions and representatives of the milling and baking industries have been working to assist Wheat Foods in preparations for the unique outreach program.
Wednesday, before the main event begins, growers from NAWG state associations will reach out to Capitol Hill offices who don’t typically hear from wheat farmers to introduce themselves and extend an invitation to the Field.
NAWG is also sponsoring a grand opening reception to kick off activities at the Field, scheduled for 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Thursday morning. This reception is intended for Congressional and executive branch staff and industry friends and will feature fresh-baked cinnamon rolls and other light refreshments. A ribbon cutting ceremony will begin at 8:30 a.m.
Details for 2010 Urban Wheat Field:
- Located at 3rd Street and Independence Ave. SW, adjacent to the National Museum of the American Indian
- Grand opening event: Sept. 23 from 7:30 to 9 a.m.
- Open to the public: Sept. 23 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sept. 24 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Source: NAWG
Posted by Haylie Shipp
