Special Ag Expo Media Event
7/14/09
Contact: Laura Probyn
517-432-1555, ext. 175
Tractor Test Drive
July 20
3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Dinner provided beginning at 4 p.m.
Michigan State University
Corner of Farm Lane and Mount Hope Road
Contact: Laura Probyn, 517-588-9830
Take a Power Trip to Discover Technological Advances of Modern Farm Equipment
Background: Agriculture is a complex industry that’s gone digital. Electronic software and hardware are part of every facet and process, and today’s tractors come complete with technological features that allow precise fieldwork to the square foot.
Activity: Reporters, editors, photographers and bloggers are invited to find out exactly what kind of technology is at work inside a tractor cab during a media tractor test drive, July 20 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Ag Expo show grounds on the corner of Mt. Hope Road and Farm Lane on the Michigan State University (MSU) campus. A dinner will be served beginning at 4 p.m.
Tools and Visuals: The tractors, which range in size from 135 horsepower to 350 horsepower, will be lined up and available for reporters to test drive, with help from manufacturer representatives. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Action: Drivers will have the chance to see how computers contribute to everything from steering to transmission to seed, fertilizer and herbicide applications in order to help farmers protect both the environment and their profits.
Interviews: Representatives from Ag Expo (which opens on July 21) will also be on hand to discuss the show and to let visitors know what they can expect to find at this year’s event.
Supporting Info: B-roll footage from 2008 Ag Expo will be provided at the event.
Location: The tractors will be set up on the south side of the Ag Expo grounds. Enter from Crescent Road via Harrison Road. Drive east onto the Ag Expo grounds and turn right onto Avenue E and then left on First Street. Look for the tractors and media event sign.
#lp#