Thirtieth Ag Expo Sees Increased Crowds, Temperate Weather
7/24/09
Contact: Laura Probyn
517-432-1555, ext. 175
EAST LANSING, Mich. -- Michigan’s economy might be facing tough times with hard-to-face numbers, but the outcomes were positive at the 30th annual Ag Expo, the state’s largest outdoor farm show, which ended its three-day run July 23 at Michigan State University (MSU).
According to Ag Expo director Ruth Borger, the total attendance for this year’s show increased just over 20 percent from 2008, and donations to the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Alumni Scholarship fund increased by a little more than 50 percent -- nearly $1,000 more than 2008 numbers.
“We were thrilled by the excellent response we received from visitors and exhibitors alike,” Borger said. “The temperate weather that we enjoyed contributed to a very positive atmosphere. People came out ready to learn about the products, services and programs available to farmers and hear about the vital work of the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources for strengthening Michigan’s communities, families, businesses and its environment.”
This year’s show drew about 16,500 visitors to see demonstrations of a robotic milking system, large tractors, cattle handling, articulating front wheel loaders, skid steers and zero-turn mowers.
Ag Expo drew about 235 commercial vendors and more than 30 educational exhibitors, many of whom showcased MSU research, teaching and Extension work in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) tent.
Visitors to the CANR tent contributed more than $2,600 to support CANR scholarships, enjoyed complimentary ice cream from the MSU Dairy Store and birthday cake in celebration of Ag Expo’s 30th birthday and MSU Archives 40th birthday. They learned about the potential for wind energy in Michigan, saw demonstrations of quick, easy and nutritious recipes for families on the go, discovered how kitchen incubators can help new food business owners, heard from youth entrepreneurs and about the many careers open to CANR graduates.
Ag Expo 2010 is set for July 20-22 on the show grounds at the corner of Mt. Hope Road and Farm Lane.
Ag Expo is sponsored by the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
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