By DOUG GRAVES
Ohio Correspondent LONDON, Ohio — What stood out among farming challenges this past year? Tops on this list for most farmers were delays in planting, low commodity prices, dwindling amounts of hay to feed their animals, and thoughts about downsizing the farm or number of livestock. At a time when farmers might be seeking advice on dealing with those and other obstacles, next week’s Ohio Farm Science Review (FSR) will make it a goal of addressing these issues, as well as highlighting the latest in farm technology and products. “With last fall and this spring being two of the most challenging seasons for farmers in recent history, visitors can visit many exhibitors and experts on-site to discuss situations they haven’t had to experience before,” said Nick Zachrich, FSR manager. Now in its 57th year, the event offers the most relevant and up-to-date information to farmers on topics ranging from crop diseases to soil health. Farmers can learn how to reduce input costs and increase their efficiency – at a time when both are particularly crucial. “All farmers will have to come up with ways to be more efficient both in animal agriculture and grain production to be able to plant and harvest crops in smaller weather windows,” Zachrich said. “Farm Science Review is a valuable resource for them.” The three-day agricultural trade show from Sept. 17-19 offers educational talks and opportunities to speak one-on-one with experts from The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES), which sponsors the annual event at the Molly Caren Agricultural Center near London, Ohio. “In one location, growers can visit with many experts and see the newest innovations on the market,” Zachrich noted. “The event draws more than 100,000 people throughout the three days and features 4,000 product lines and more than 700 commercial and educational exhibits, as well as workshops and presentations delivered by CFAES experts.” Online tickets and access to the online directory are now available for FSR. Show hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sept. 17-18 and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sept. 19. Tickets are $7 online and at extension county offices and participating agribusinesses, or $10 at the gate. Children ages 5 and under are admitted for free. The FSR app, which is available for both Apple and Android smart phone and tablet users, features interactive maps, a schedule of events, and general information about the show and exhibitors. The app can be downloaded from the App Store or the Google Play Store by searching for “FSR 2019” or by directing your mobile browser to fsr.osu.edu |
