This scenic, 5,000-acre property with its rolling meadows, dense forests and high peaks provides valuable life lessons for teenagers eager to learn about farming and forestry, as well as the world of work. Since 1974, the Youthwork Program at the Smokey House Center has provided more than 1,700 students from Danby and surrounding towns with the chance to expand their horizons beyond the typical classroom. Smokey House Executive Director Lynn Bondurant said students who are not necessarily living up to their potential in the classroom tend to flourish in this outdoor environment.
Teenagers flex their minds and muscles as they combine academic training with hands-on chores.
With the guidance of adult mentors, Bondurant said, students learn about teamwork, how to fill out applications and master problem-solving skills. They earn minimum wage and academic credits as they work in crews to raise animals, grow organic vegetables, cut firewood, make hardwood charcoal, produce maple syrup, and manage forest and farm land. Bondurant cited as an example how a crew responsible for building a fence had to create a budget, purchase the materials, manage their time and interact with vendors. The idea behind the work is to have them go home and be physically tired, but also mentally tired because they had to think a lot. The Curriers first learned of the hillside farm in Danby through a Vermont Life article in the 1950s, and decided to buy it, along with a number of nearby properties.