Kids & Chefs camp held at Cooperative Extension

Campers in the Rutherford County Cooperative Extension's Kids and Chefs camp not only learned how to cook, but also where their food comes from.

Now in its eleventh year, the camp is offered each summer for children ages 10 to 13, said Tracy Davis, family and consumer science agent. Those who have attended the camp haven't just come away with a greater appreciation of where their food comes from - some have gone on to careers that put to use the knowledge that began with camp.

"We've had a couple who have gotten into the food service industry either as dietitians or chefs," Davis said.

Some campers attend the weeklong day camp each year, she added, so different recipes are used each year so that campers can experience cooking a variety of dishes.

During this year's camp campers visited a local trout farm, bringing back fish to cook for lunch. Side dishes prepared on this day included slaw, potato skins and grilled corn on the cob. Local chefs lend their expertise to camp, providing instruction for each day's lunch preparation.

More 4-H Summer Fun camps are scheduled through early August. For more information, call 828-287-6011.