This year’s annual Day On The Farm not only features antique equipment used on the farm, but also new technology that could only be dreamed of just a decade ago.
On May 9, the second Saturday of the month, be sure to join us as we demonstrate some of the antique equipment that farmers used to harvest a crop of hay. Attendees will experience how a 1920 hay mower, a 1940 side delivery rake, a 1930 hay loader, a 1890 hay wagon, a 1890 horse-powered hay press and a 1920 motor-driven hay press were used to cut and bale hay for bedding and feed for the animals on the farm.
And then, find out how science and technology continue to improve agriculture. Stephen Rider will be creating parts on a 3D Printer that will be used by his family’s fruit juice and tea business, H.A. Rider and Sons. In addition, FARMBOTIX will be displaying its robotic planting equipment in the field. Both presentations show a real contrast to the daily activities of farm life of previous times.
Familiar favorites will also return. Fred Silva’s Draft Horses will be giving hay rides and our Kids Tractor will be running in the field, letting children experience driving a tractor. We also will feature crafts demonstrations and butter, cheese and ice cream making. A wood worker will be on hand demonstrating the art of carving wood.
And, of course, there will be a number of animals on site. There will be sheep shearing demonstrations throughout the day and 4-H members will be holding their annual 4-H Fair at Day on the Farm. Children and adults will have an opportunity to learn the various projects 4-H Members do and skills they learn from them.