Ag Progress Days Visitors Invited to Stop by Pennsylvania Agriculture Department Booth

HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Secretary Russell C. Redding encouraged Ag Progress Days visitors to stop by the Department of Agriculture's booth, Aug. 17-19, to discuss and learn about the latest issues affecting the industry.

Ag Progress Days, held in Rock Springs, Centre County, is the largest outdoor agriculture expo in Pennsylvania.

"Whether you are working in agriculture or interested in agriculture, Ag Progress Days is a great summer showcase of Pennsylvania's leading industry," Redding said. "Visitors are welcome to stop at our department's pavilion to discuss current issues impacting Pennsylvania agriculture and learn more about the many services we provide to support farmers and agribusinesses."

The department will have displays and information available from many of its bureaus including Animal Health, Plant Industry, Food Safety, the Centers for Beef and Dairy Excellence, Crop Insurance, PA Grows and Farmland Preservation. The United States Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Services and Veterinary Services offices will also be represented.  

Many events and meetings will be featured during the three-day agriculture showcase, including:

• Tuesday, Aug. 17: 10:30 a.m. – celebration of 1 millionth visitor to the WoodMobile.
• Wednesday, Aug. 18: 7 a.m. – Crop Insurance Early Risers Session at the Red Barn; 10 a.m. – Farm Show Commission Meeting at the Red Barn; and 6 p.m. – Performance Tested Boar Sale at the Livestock Evaluation Center.

"From the many 4-H and FFA events to the commercial displays and exhibits on-site, Ag Progress Days helps to support agriculture's future and help people learn how the industry is keeping Pennsylvania growing," Redding added.

Ag Progress Days began in the late 1950s as a 4-H field day. Today, it is hosted by Penn State University and boasts more than 400 commercial exhibitors, dozens of hands-on educational exhibits, guided tours, workshops and draws more than 50,000 visitors.  

For more information, visit www.agriculture.state.pa.us.

Media contact: Justin Fleming, 717-787-5085

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture