When most people envision a farm, it seems all too often they wander to that all familiar place. That place, severely outdated, where they are greeted by a gentleman wearing a cowboy hat giving shade to a long blade of straw. You won’t find that at the Educational Farm at Joppa Hill Inc.

Where the Educational Farm remains in touch with its rustic roots and traditional hard-working philosophy, it refuses to blend in, hoping a spotlight will shine upon its primary mission – to educate.

“People tend to forget the basic connection they have with the land and what it provides us,” said Lin L’Heureux, the organization’s executive director. “The goal is to use this facility as a bridge between the community and their respect for animals and the environment.”

L’Heureux took over as the farm’s executive director in March 2007, at which time she decided to welcome the organization into her heart on a more than full-time basis. “A farmer’s work is never done,” said L’Heureux.

Since the facility is a nonprofit organization, its daily chores and overall heartbeat rest in the hands of nearly 20 volunteers who tend to the farm’s every need. Those interested in working on the farm are trained by other more experienced volunteers, and by L’Heureux herself.

Trainees can expect an honest and thorough education as their knowledge is vital in ensuring the safety of the 20 or so animals that call the farm home. Volunteers need to learn what types of food each animal consumes, the proper ways to handle each animal, and proper measurements regarding anything from medications to grain.

“We know we’re doing something for the community,” said Job Ombati, a volunteer from Manchester. “This farm is the community.”

Currently, the Educational Farm opens it doors to the community three days a week. During the summer months, the organization will be open six days a week in order to facilitate its summer program.

Those interested in exploring what an educational farm is may be surprised by the knowledge waiting behind the farm’s squeaky gates. Educational tours of the farm are geared toward the ages and interests of those involved.

In the past, guests have been encouraged to learn the art behind quilting and even felting, a process where warm water and soap are used to turn sheep’s wool into a unique and very usable smooth fabric, or try out horsemanship. In this class, guests learn not only how to ride a horse, but also the animal’s feeding habits and how to properly handle them.

The farm also promotes its raw milk program. Guests and members of the community, after subscribing to the program’s monthly plan, can indulge in pristine milk drawn directly from cows living on the premises. L’Heureux instituted the monthly plan to ensure the product’s fresh nature and punctuality.

The farm has currently been undergoing some changes, most importantly the addition of two new animals and the delivery of a new goat pen, which was given to the farm by the Bedford Woman’s Club.

Due to its nonprofit roots, the success of the organization depends largely on the service of its volunteers and funding from grants and the hands of the community.

“It’s an important resource for the community. We’re hoping that the more people get to know us, the more they’ll help us,” said L’Heureux.

The farm is currently busy preparing for its annual spring fair and summer programs. Those interested in attending this year’s fair can expect yet another fun-filled afternoon. If the ice cream sundaes or hand rolled bees-wax candles don’t catch your interest, the tractor- drawn hayrides and pony rides most certainly may.

At this year’s summer camp, which begins on June 29 and ends Aug. 21, the themes stretch from eco-adventures to animal science and junior farmer week. Each program looks to educate the youth of the community while instilling in them an appreciation for the environment and the animals that roam within it.

For more information, including how to make a donation, visit theeducationalfarm.org.