he average sized farm in Hancock County is over 200 acres. Agriculture is very much alive and well in Hancock County and is an important part of communities throughout the county.
The Hancock County Fair takes place each year over Labor Day weekend. The fairground’s leadership team continues to make improvements to the fairgrounds, including the Legacy Building, The Old Mill Stream Centre, and Recker Arena. Each year, hundreds of young people aged 8-18 participate in the Hancock County Junior Fair, with Livestock entries making up about 75 percent of the fair entries. By being a part of the Hancock County 4-H and FFA Programs, youth learn the fundamentals and foundations of agriculture, not just raising livestock. These young people are the bright future of agriculture right here in Hancock County.
Legacy Farmer’s Co-op serves our farmers with 11 grain facilities, five agronomy locations and Legacy Lawn and Pet. In addition, it operates a propane delivery service and two petroleum cardtrol locations.
To celebrate the contribution of agriculture in our county, we host the annual Farmer’s Share Breakfast. This event recognizes and honors outstanding contributions to agriculture by people in Hancock County, either as a farmer or agricultural related field. Each year they induct new members into the Agriculture Hall of Fame. Nominees for the Ag Hall of fame must have been born, grew up in, or currently reside in Hancock County and have at least 25 years of experience in agriculture.
The Hancock County OSU Extension office’s agriculture and natural resources programs assist with technology, marketing, education and support for our county farmers. They help our agricultural community balance economic advancement with environmental sustainability. Local radio stations work with the extension office to produce Ag-Talk, a weekly program dedicated to providing education and information on agriculture related topics. The extension office also assists farmers with soil and water quality testing.
Our county is a proud supporter of agriculture and continues to champion the efforts of farmers and conservationist right here in our own backyard.