MURFREESBORO – For nearly a quarter century, fifth graders enrolled in Hertford County schools have experienced the wonders of natural resources.

Despite a cool, blustery day accompanied by brief intervals of a fine mist, that long-standing tradition continued near here on Tuesday.

The 23^rd annual Hertford County Natural Resources Field Day was held at E.R. Evans & Sons farm. There, fifth graders at Ahoskie Elementary School, Riverview Elementary School and Ridgecroft School were treated to a wide variety of educational topics concerning the history and protection of natural resources.

Sponsored by the Hertford County Soil and Water Conservation District, the annual event witnessed students visiting several “information stations” staffed by natural resource representatives of various local agencies.

North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission Officer Tim Wadsworth demonstrated boating and hunting safety with his young audience.

Gladys Owens of Soil & Water Conservation informed the students of point source and non-point source pollution.

Anass Banna of Hertford County Cooperative Extension (HCCE) shared his knowledge of crop production, soil fertility and pesticide use.

Michael Hughes, Jason Odom and Chuck Munford of the Hertford County Office of the North Carolina Forest Service taught the students about tree identification, fire prevention and products made from wood.

HCCE’s Wendy Burgess had a “hands-on” demonstration of the various types of soil found in the local area.

Additionally, North Carolina Farm Bureau handed out natural resources conservation material to the students.

“We were very fortunate that the weather held off just long enough for us to conduct this annual event,” said Greg Hughes of the Hertford County Soil & Water Conservation District. “It was a huge success thanks to the cooperation of those staffing our information stations and to the hospitality of Mr. E.R. Evans.

“Because of those efforts we were able to educate the young people of this county to the importance of protecting our natural resources,” Hughes concluded.