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Skaggs: Sunbelt AG Expo is a must-see event for farmers and agribusiness
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Catch a glimpse of farming in the future this October at the South’s biggest and best farm show. The Sunbelt Ag Expo is the world’s largest farm show with on-site row crops and field demonstrations. During the show’s three days, Oct. 14-16, the latest technology from the agricultural industry will be on display near Moultrie for all to see and evaluate.

Unique among farm shows, Expo features exhibits that appeal to farmers and non-farmers alike. Some of these include all terrain vehicles, automotive, lawn and gardening, hunting and fishing, family living and a daily parade of antique tractors.

What modern farm show would be complete without precision farming exhibits? New tractors equipped with auto-steer and similar global positioning systems will strut their stuff in the always-popular ride and drive area. Exciting new field demonstrations that illustrate recent technology are on the schedule as well.

Agricultural researchers and educators from land grant colleges and universities throughout the Southeast are helping to enhance the efficiency and profitability of agriculture and related industries. University of Georgia’s College of Agriculture and Environmental Science will highlight water conservation. Topics range from rain water harvesting to alternative water supply options for outdoor use to solar-powered drip irrigation systems.

Animal agriculture displays expand each year at the Expo. You’ll be able to take in demonstrations, exhibits and seminars for beef cattle, dairy, poultry and aquaculture.

Horse and equine related activities have expanded in recent years to include a variety of horse and rider competitions. These live demonstrations, as well as static equipment displays, create a truly unique experience for horse enthusiasts.

Goats and alpacas are other farm animals featured at Expo, along with some of the smartest and entertaining dogs to be found anywhere. Border collies will be rounding up sheep and cattle in an annual Expo tradition, the American Grand Finals stock dog competition.

Gardening enthusiasts can learn from the masters — a wide range of green thumb topics will include organic fruit and vegetable production and the planting and care of camellias, one of the South’s best known landscape plants. From farm to market, garden to field, classroom to home, the Expo truly offers something for the entire family.

The Expo’s home is Spence Field, a former airbase on 1,680 acres. The Expo is four miles southeast of U.S. 319 on Ga. 133. Hours are 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Oct. 14 and 15, and 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Oct. 16. Admission is $7 per person per day, with children ages 12 and under admitted free with a parent.

For more information, visit www.sunbeltexpo.com.

Billy Skaggs is a Hall County extension agent. He can be reached at 770-531-6988. His column appears biweekly and at gainesvilletimes.com.