Farm Progress Show is Next Week

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Published on August 26 2015 10:01 am
Last Updated on August 26 2015 10:01 am
Written by Greg Sapp

From antique tractors to zone-managed precision farming techniques. The 2015 Farm Progress Show near Decatur Sept. 1-3 offers that and more.

Illinois Farm Bureau will kick off its centennial celebration in a tent on Seventh Street across from Case IH. IFB officially turns 100 years old next year. Centennial activities will include Farm Bureau memorabilia, a free souvenir photo with your family or friends, and free canvas tote bags to the first 1,000 visitors daily. Other activities include IFB’s annual agricultural certification program for state senators and representatives. Participating lawmakers will glimpse the future of farm equipment and learn about the latest methods farmers use to manage crop nutrients on their fields.

The show opens daily at 8 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. Sept. 1-2, and at 4 p.m. Sept. 3. Admission costs $15 for adults and $8 for children ages 13 to 17. 

Visitors will find an exhibit area expanded by nearly 90 acres accommodating more than 100 additional exhibitors. Demonstrations of the newest harvest equipment will occur daily at 11 a.m. Drainage tile demonstrations will take place daily at 1 p.m. with tillage demonstrations happening daily at 2 p.m. Unmanned aerial vehicle demonstrations get under way daily at 9 a.m. near the southeastern gates. Cattle handling demonstrations occur daily at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. in the Livestock Industries Tent. Test drive the latest trucks in a Ride ‘n Drive area north of the exhibit field by the tram loading site and in the newly expanded area.

Country music star Craig Morgan will entertain Sept. 2 at 6:30 p.m., preceded by the Eric Burgett Band at 5:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the concert gate, in the Hospitality Tent or online at {farmprogressshow.com}.

Shuttles run through parking areas and throughout the show site each day. Trams run continuously to field demonstrations, departing from the north end of Central Avenue.