By Blake Jackson
Penn State’s 2024 Ag Progress Days, taking place August 13-15 at Rock Springs, will offer attendees a deep dive into the latest agricultural research and best practices. The event will feature a variety of tours highlighting topics such as pond management, livestock research, and organic vegetable production.
Visitors will explore the 2,400-acre Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center, where Penn State researchers are studying innovative farming techniques, conservation methods, and natural resource management. Free tours will cover a wide range of subjects, including:
- Pond Management: Learn about pond ecology, water quality testing, and the impact of land use on pond health.
- Research Farms: Gain insights into horticulture, plant pathology, agronomy, and entomology research.
- Organic Vegetable Production: Discover the challenges and opportunities of growing organic vegetables, including high tunnel production and soil health management.
- Animal Research: Explore beef and dairy cattle production, as well as modern swine farming practices.
- Forest Management: Learn about sustainable forest management and the various products derived from forests.
- Stream Buffers and Native Grasses: Discover the benefits of stream buffers for water quality, wildlife, and livestock.
- Equine and Livestock Pastures: Learn about pasture management, alternative forages, and high-density grazing techniques.
- Water Wellhead Safety: Gain knowledge about protecting your well water from contamination.
In addition to tours, the event will feature exhibits, demonstrations, and educational programs. For those unable to attend in person, virtual tours of the Larson Ag Research Center are available online.
Ag Progress Days is free to attend and offers something for everyone interested in agriculture. The event is held at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center, located nine miles southwest of State College on Route 45.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
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