By Blake Jackson
For three days in August, Ag Progress Days 2026 brought together farmers, researchers, educators, industry leaders, and families at Penn State’s Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center in Rock Springs, Pennsylvania. This year’s event was especially meaningful as it marked 50 years since Rock Springs became the permanent home of the agricultural exposition.
Hosted by Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences from August 11-13, 2026, the event attracted more than 40,000 visitors, according to show manager Jesse Darlington.
The milestone celebration highlighted both the long history of the event and its role in showcasing the future of agriculture.
“The crowds were amazing, which is a testament to the value of Ag Progress Days,” Darlington said. “We couldn’t have asked for better engagement and people to celebrate this special occasion.”
Innovation remained a major focus of the show. One of the newest attractions was the FIRA Robotics Village, which introduced visitors to agricultural robotics and automation technologies designed to improve efficiency and address labor shortages.
Companies such as Hermes Vision also demonstrated emerging technologies, including drone-based systems that can identify invasive weeds and reduce herbicide use.
The event also featured the launch of the Keystone AgTech Alliance, a collaborative effort aimed at strengthening Pennsylvania’s agricultural technology sector and encouraging innovation across the industry.
Beyond technology, Ag Progress Days offered educational resources through Penn State Extension, Master Gardeners, and numerous exhibits covering crop production, livestock, horticulture, natural resources, and family wellbeing.
Farmers and visitors had opportunities to interact directly with specialists, ask questions, and learn about new research and management practices.
Many attendees praised the event for its educational value and networking opportunities. Producers, students, agricultural professionals, and policymakers gathered to discuss challenges facing agriculture, including crop production, technology adoption, and industry support programs.
The annual Government and Industry Luncheon attracted hundreds of agricultural leaders and government officials, who discussed issues affecting Pennsylvania agriculture and recognized the event’s 50-year legacy at Rock Springs.
Reflecting on the anniversary, College of Agricultural Sciences Dean Troy Ott emphasized that while agricultural technology has evolved dramatically over the decades, the purpose of Ag Progress Days remains unchanged.
“The equipment, technology and agricultural practices on display have changed tremendously since Ag Progress Days began, but the reason people continue to come really hasn’t changed,” Ott said.
“They come to see what’s new in agriculture, learn something and, just as importantly, connect with the people who make up our agricultural community.”
Photo Credit: amy-duke
Categories: Pennsylvania, Business, General