Penn State’s 2016 Ag Progress Days Set to Have Something for Everyone

A hay mowing demonstration will take place on the more than 80 acres of land set aside for equipment during this year's expo.
A hay mowing demonstration will take place on the more than 80 acres of land set aside for equipment during this year's expo.

Penn State is set to host three days of agricultural activities as a part of its “Ag Progress Days” event, held every year in August.

It stands as the largest outdoor agricultural exposition in Pennsylvania and is expected to draw nearly 500 exhibitors that will showcase the latest agriculture technology.

This year, it will be hosted between August 16 and 18 at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center.

At the Equine Exhibits Building, individuals will be able to learn about how animals provide healing to individuals in need.

"People connect with animals, sometimes when they cannot connect with people," said Ann Macrina, senior instructor in the College of Agricultural Sciences' Department of Animal Science and coordinator of the Ag Progress Days Equine Experience.

There will also be an exhibit that explains how to grow garlic at the Yard and Garden Area, as well as information on wheat threshing at the Pasto Musuem.

Children are being especially welcomed to the “Ag Progress Days” event, which will have activities centered on the theme of healthy eating.

“This year’s focus in the 4-H Youth Building is on healthy eating. There will be an entire activity dedicated to exploring grains — their health benefits and the products that contain them,” said building coordinator Mya Rushton, 4-H education program associate. “Carbohydrates, vitamins and even proteins from certain grains are necessary for balanced diets.”

The “Ag Progress Days” event is in its 41st year. It is one of only three agricultural exhibitions in the country that is sponsored by a major university.