EAST LANSING, Mich. — Ag Expo, Michigan’s largest agriculture show, is back for its 33rd year, with traditional farm displays and activities as well as special attractions for the whole family. The event is July 17-19 on the Michigan State University campus.

Ag Expo brings participants the latest technology in agricultural production, current research from MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR) faculty and a variety of demonstrations and educational sessions for both farm and non-farm audiences.

Doug Buhler, CANR interim dean, said the college, along with extension and MSU AgBioResearch, continue to serve Michigan residents to improve farm profits, agribusiness development and personal quality of life.

“Ag Expo is one of the ways we meet these goals,” he said. “We collectively aim to create and retain jobs throughout Michigan, improve the health of people, places and animals and discover new knowledge that can help you expand your business and improve your life.

“Through our ongoing research, teaching and outreach programs, we help millions of Michigan residents across the state move forward. Together we are working to grow Michigan’s $90 billion agricultural and agri-foods industry to new levels.”

More than 200 exhibitors will feature products and services that help Michigan farmers succeed, including equipment, seed, fertilizer, building and service suppliers. Visitors will see tractors, implements, trailers and other equipment, with the opportunity to talk with representatives from manufacturers, dealers and agencies.

Participants also can learn about research, teaching and extension programs offered through CANR. On-site seed plots from commercial seed companies will be featured during the show. Visitors will be able to talk with seed company representatives while looking at examples of the companies’ specialty soybean and corn hybrids.

Also on the Ag Expo grounds, demonstrations on tillage, animal mortality composting and biodiesel processing will be available. Visitors can test drive payloaders, telehandlers, skid steers and large-frame tractors. Participants may also take in lawn tractor and antique tractor pulls, and watch the state FFA tractor driving contest. Sessions will be available on estate planning, atrazine in groundwater, trucking law, food labeling laws and mediation.

Stock dog training demonstrations are back this year by popular demand. Williamston resident Jeanne Weaver and her champion stock dogs will provide demonstrations each day at 1:30 p.m. Weaver will share her 30 years of experience as she covers techniques on how to carry on a conversation with dogs by whistles and commands, as well as the importance of developing teamwork between dog and handler and knowing how dogs interpret and understand livestock.

Demonstrations of the spinning and skirting of alpaca fleece is new this year and will be presented at 11 a.m. daily by members of the Michigan Alpaca Livestock and Commerce Assoc.

The CANR tent, which has been a mainstay at Ag Expo for the past nine years, will feature expanded educational sessions and activities, including a self-guided look at food production. Educational displays featuring the college’s Breakfast on the Farm events will be showcased.

James Whaley, a 4-H member from Byron, will be back this year with a baby chicken booth. Whaley has his own business, Jimmy’s Farm Fresh Eggs, and enjoys teaching others about chickens. 

During Ag Expo, he will be moving newly hatched chickens from the incubator to the feeding pen and teaching visitors what it takes to care for poultry.

The college tent will also feature an educational stage with presentations on social media and new technology, pond management and gardening tips from extension Master Gardeners. Visitors can also stop by an “Ask an Expert” booth with questions for extension specialists.

The MSU Dairy Store will offer free ice cream while accepting donations to support CANR scholarships, and visitors can speak with MSU CANR representatives to learn about a variety of career options related to agriculture and natural resources.

Ag Expo features commercial farm equipment from throughout the Midwest and several Canadian provinces on the 35-acre main exhibition site, as well as educational exhibits from several MSU colleges and departments.

 “We are committed to providing quality educational activities, demonstrations and informational presentations,” Buhler said. “Regardless of whether you’re an experienced grower or would like to become one, there’s something for everyone at this year’s show.”

Ag Expo runs from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., July 17-18, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on July 19. Admission to the grounds and parking at Farm Lane and Mt. Hope Road are free. For more information, visit www.agexpo.msu.edu or call 800-366-7055. CANR sponsors Ag Expo.