UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Agricultural producers and others interested in the business and technology of farming can see a diverse cross-section of goods and services at Penn State's Ag Progress Days, Aug. 14-16 at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center.

"Whatever you're looking for related to agriculture -- from the big steel of farm machinery to dairy equipment, fencing, insurance, you name it -- you'll find it at this event," says Bob Oberheim, Ag Progress Days manager.

Oberheim points out that with more than 400 exhibitors -- at least 45 of which are new to the event -- Ag Progress Days is one-stop shopping for farmers, making it worth their while to take time away from their busy operations. "Producers can come here to comparison-shop and see, in one day, models and brands that might not be readily available in their home area," he says.

Field machinery demonstrations will permit visitors to see some of this equipment in action. "We'll have a full schedule of field demonstrations each day," Oberheim says. "In recent weeks, the area surrounding the Ag Progress Days site has received ample rain, so we'll have a healthy crop of alfalfa for hay mowing, chopping, raking and baling demonstrations."

Weather permitting, daily demonstrations featuring a variety of manufacturers and models will include hay mowing (10:30 a.m.), haylage chopping (11:30 a.m.), manure application (12:30 p.m.), hay rakes and tedders (1:30 p.m.), hay baling (2 p.m.) and bale handling (3 p.m.).

Three companies also will have areas set aside for exclusive demonstrations: C.B. Hoober Inc. (guidance systems), Hamilton Equipment (mowers) and Messick Farm Equipment (large, self-propelled sprayers).

The safe operation of machinery and equipment also will be a focus at Ag Progress Days. The Farm Safety Demonstration Area will utilize remote-controlled skid steer loaders to illustrate safety hazards and emergency-response measures for operators and first-responders.

In addition to goods and services, producers can see exhibits and talk to Penn State faculty experts about issues and practices related to dairy, livestock and crop production, animal health, soil conservation, water quality, and sources of ag renewable energy such as biogas, wind, soy diesel and ethanol.

Horse enthusiasts and owners also can get the latest information on tack and equipment, training, handling, health and business practices at the Ag Progress Days Equine Experience.

New to Ag Progress Days this year is an entertaining display of equipment -- tractor dancing. At 10 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 15, the Roof Garden Tractor Buddies of Somerset will maneuver their tractors around the Main Horse Arena in a square-dance-style performance, complete with a caller and music.

Penn State's Ag Progress Days is held at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs, nine miles southwest of State College on Route 45. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 14; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 15; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Aug. 16. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit the Ag Progress Days Web site at http://apd.cas.psu.edu.

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EDITORS: Contact Bob Oberheim at 814-692-5262 or by e-mail at rlo1@psu.edu.

Chuck Gill 814-863-2713 cdg5@psu.edu