The Sunbelt AG Expo starting next week is one of the biggest events of the year for farmers and those involved in agriculture.

As the South’s biggest and best farm show, the expo is also the world’s largest farm show with on-site row crops and field demonstrations. During the show’s three days, October 16-18, the latest technology from the agricultural industry will be on full display near Moultrie for all to see and evaluate.

The Expo features many exhibits related to traditional agriculture, as well as other commodities such as forestry. Nowhere else will you see more portable sawmills and related equipment than at the expo.

Unique among farm shows, the 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. Expo visitors may also register for valuable prizes, including a new pickup and a new lawn tractor.

Precision Ag technology returns with another strong showing. Site-specific, precision farming takes the guesswork out of planting, spraying and a host of other farm chores. And the expo has helped nurture this technology from its early experimental stages until now when it has become a must-have for modern farmers.

Special areas on the farm are set aside for Extension demonstrations. Many farm practices in common use today were first tested at the expo. These plots feature innovative crop production methods and new crop varieties, many with biotech traits aimed at better insect and weed control.

Animal agriculture is also well represented. Cattlemen will see presentations on hay quality. Others will cover national animal identification, a crucial step in protecting individual herds and the nation’s food supply from dangerous diseases.

Horse enthusiasts will thrill at the demonstrations in the equine arena, featuring cutting horses, barrel racing and reined cow horses. Goats and alpacas are other farm animals featured at the 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.

The expo’s permanent home is Spence Field, a former airbase on 1,680 acres. The expo is located four miles southeast of US 319 on Ga. 133. Show hours are 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday, and 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Thursday.

For more information, visit the expo Web site at www.sunbeltexpo.com.