New York Farm Show on Now Through Saturday at State Fairgrounds

The New York Farm Show in Syracuse is open Feb. 22-24 at the state Fairgrounds.

Inside six huge heated buildings, attendees will more more than 400 commercial agriculture exhibitors, the latest technology in tractors, planters, sprayers and other precision-ag tools, dairy robotic milking systems, beef production information, handing equipment and market info, along with seed and crop protection products, farm supplies and services, woodlot and related industry supplies.

Show times are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day and admission is $5 at the door. Those under age 18 are free.

New York Farm Show is co-sponsored by the Northeast Equipment Dealers Association and American Agriculturist magazine.

For more information on the show, go to https://www.newyorkfarmshow.com/en/home.html this link.

New York Farm Show Opens Feb. 23 st State Fairgrounds

The 2017 New York Farm Show is the place to visit this winter for information on new innovative farm and woodlot products and equipment.
 
The 32nd edition of the show runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 23, 24 and 25 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Geddes, west of Syracuse.
 
The annual show hosts more than 400 exhibitors in six heated buildings, including the Arts and Home Center, Center of Progress, Dairy, Horticulture, and Science Buildings, and International Pavilion.
 
  “It’s a spring planning show,” New York Farm Show manager Scott Grigor said. “It gets people out of the house. The economy is off a little, and it helps people enjoy life a little bit.”
 
The show had 406 confirmed exhibitors as of Jan. 11 with more expected, Grigor said.  There are 13 new exhibitors this year, including Yanmar Tractor of Georgia

Exhibit area covers more than 222,000 square feet of space.

Topics covered by seminars includes: beef, forestry, and health and safety. There also will be the popular FFA toy auction and 4-H members will again be selling hitch pins as a county fundraiser. 
They are offering Tisco 6-by-¾-inch hitch pins at $5 each or five for $20. They will be located at the main entrance doors of the Center of Progress, Dairy and Horticulture buildings.
 
The New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health will offer information on ROPS (rollover protective structures), safe skid steer operation, blood pressure screenings and youth safety activities.
 
The center also will again have its farm hazards display board set up to help people identify hazardous situations on the farm. It will supply information on PPE (personal protective equipment) selection and catalogs and applications for the John May Farm Safety Fund, and roadway safety tips in conjunction with the state troopers.
 
BEEF SEMINARS
Here are some of the beef seminars from the New York Beef Council to be held in the beef area of the Toyota Building:
 
Daily presentations beginning at 10 a.m. will feature:10 a.m.: ABCs of EPDs - Phil Trowbridge, Trowbridge Angus11 a.m.: Trace Minerals - Its role on the Cattle Immune System, Dr. Bob Gentry, MultiminNoon: Quality - The Consumer Expectations, Jean O’Toole/ Katherine Bronson, NYBC - ThursdayNoon: Beef Up Your Marketing, Jean O’Toole/ Katherine Bronson, NYBC - Friday1 p.m.: Johne’s - What it is and Programs Available, Dr. Melanie Hemenway, NYSCHAP 2 p.m.: Unraveling Official Identification, Dr Jane Lewis, USDA Ag. And Markets3 p.m.: Beef showmanship clinic,  Robert Groom/ Jeanne White-  Thursday3 p.m.: Fitting clinic, Robert Groom - Friday
 
Saturday will be dedicated to youth doing the presentations on different related beef topics. Grab a seat on the bleachers as these young individuals demonstrate their experiences and knowledge of the beef industry. Jean O’Toole, the new executive director of the New York Beef Council, and Katherine Bronson will open the presentations. 
10 a.m.: How to Master “Agvocacy,” Jean O’Toole/ Katherine Bronson, NYBC11 a.m.: Our National Livestock Judging Experience in Louisville, KY- By Melissa Keller, NY Junior Beef Producer11 a.m.: Three Ways to get Involved with the Beef Industry, Megan Cranwell, NY Junior Beef ProducerNoon: What I Learned about NYBC (NY Beef Council) through C2C (Cattlemen to Consumers) Program, Jala Murphy, NY Junior Beef Producer12:30 p.m.: What Telling our Story Means and Why We Should, By Sam and Sarah Birdsall, NY Junior Beef Producers1 p.m.: Small Steps to Becoming Socially Savvy in our Beef Industry, By Anna King, NY Junior Beef Producer1:30 p.m.: Important Factors When Doing a Project Beef Animal for Sales at County Fairs - Feed, Nutrition, Record-keeping, Animal Care, Marketing, etc., By Daisy Trowbridge and Jordin Radley, NY Junior Beef Producers2 p.m.: Primal and Retail Beef Cuts, By Loretta and Suzie Lippert, NY Junior Beef Producers 
As you attend the presentations enjoy a hot beef sundae served up daily by the New York Beef Producers, starting at 11 a.m.
 
The New York Beef Council will have a face-to-face presence at this year’s NY Farm Show! Stop by to “Beef Together” with the NYBC’s innovative marketing initiatives to promote YOU, our farmers, and the quality beef you produce.
 
A live beef cattle display representing numerous beef breeds will enhance our Beef Area, including breed information to take home.
 
Engage with the “Face of Our Farmers.” Beef Farmers have filled out questioners to help you get to know them better. Engage in a conversation with beef producers, see their likes, dislikes and ask them beef related questions. 
 
Pick up a Scavenger Hunt paper at the Beef Gazebo and then read our “Face of our Farmers” posters to get your answers and win a prize.
 
Beef recipes and beef related information also will be available in the beef area for attendees to take home and enjoy.
 
FOREST SEMINARS
 
Free programs to help landowners get more benefits from their woodlots will be presented by the New York Forest Owners Association each day of the New York Farm Show.
 
Visitors to the show can meet with a forester from the State Department of Environmental Conservation or speak with a Cornell trained volunteer.
 
Visitors are encouraged to bring their questions and pause at the booth area before or after attending a seminar program. The DEC foresters and trained volunteers are there to help with resource materials, displays and expert advice.

 “Learn More, Earn More” seminars are free and open to all. Topics include federal cost sharing for woodlot improvements, working with foresters, improving bird habitat, heating with wood, and forest farming. Programs start on the hour and allow time for questions and discussion.
 
The booth is on the main corridor of the Arts and Home Center, and the seminars are held in the Somerset Room just steps away on the lower level of the building.
 
These programs are presented by the New York Forest Owners Association in cooperation with the state Department of Environmental Conservation, Cornell Cooperative Extension and SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry.



Seminar topics and speakers for each day include:
 
Thursday, Feb. 23

11 a.m.: DEC Can Help Family Forest Owners, by Matt Swayze, state Department of Environmental Conservation
1 p.m.: Assessing Impacts from Deer, by Kristie Sullivan, Department of Natural Resources, Cornell University
2 p.m.: Legacy Planning for Your Property, by Shorna Allred, Department of Natural Resources, Cornell University
3 p.m.: Getting Federal Aid for Woodlot Improvements, by Michael Fournier, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service 

Friday, Feb. 24

10 a.m.: Unwanted Vegetation in Your Woods, by Peter Smallidge, NYS Extension Forester, Cornell University
11 a.m.: Woodlot Inventory: How Many Trees Do You Have?, by Peter Smallidge, NYS Extension Forester, Cornell University
1 p.m.: Insects and Diseases that Threaten Your Woods, by Mark Whitmore, Department of Natural Resources, Cornell University
2 p.m.: The Law: Rights and Responsibilities of Woodlot Owners, by Timothy Fratesch, Fratesch Law Firm, Syracuse
3 p.m.: Getting Federal Aid for Woodlot Improvements, by Michael Fournier, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service
 
Saturday, Feb. 25

10 a.m.: Heat with Wood While Growing Timber, Michael Kelleher, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
11 a.m.: Improve Bird Habitat with Smart Timber Management, by Suzanne Treyger, Forest Program Manager, Audubon New York
1 p.m.: Working with Consulting Foresters, by Rene Germain, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
2 p.m.: Wilhelm Farm: A Case Study in Agroforestry, by Ann Wilhelm & Bill Bentley, woodlot owners
3 p.m.: Woodlots and Income Taxes, by Hugh Canham, Emeritus Professor, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
 
Visit the New York Forest Owners Association website (www.nyfoa.org for more information.

New York Farm Show Set for Feb. 23-25 at NYS Fairgrounds

From Empire Farm & Dairy magazine

The 2017 New York Farm Show is the place to visit this winter for information on new innovative farm and woodlot products and equipment.
 
The 32nd edition of the show runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 23, 24 and 25 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Geddes, west of Syracuse.
 
The annual show hosts more than 400 exhibitors in six heated buildings, including the Arts and Home Center, Center of Progress, Dairy, Horticulture, and Science Buildings, and International Pavilion.
 
“It’s a spring planning show,” New York Farm Show manager Scott Grigor said. “It gets people out of the house. The economy is off a little, and it helps people enjoy life a little bit.”
 
The show had 406 confirmed exhibitors as of Jan. 11 with more expected, Grigor said.  There are 13 new exhibitors this year, including Yanmar Tractor of Georgia

Exhibit area covers more than 222,000 square feet of space.

Topics covered by seminars includes: beef, forestry, and health and safety. There also will be the popular FFA toy auction and 4-H members will again be selling hitch pins as a county fundraiser. They are offering Tisco 6-by-¾-inch hitch pins at $5 each or five for $20. They will be located at the main entrance doors of the Center of Progress, Dairy and Horticulture buildings.

The New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health will offer information on ROPS (rollover protective structures), safe skid steer operation, blood pressure screenings and youth safety activities.
 
The center also will again have its farm hazards display board set up to help people identify hazardous situations on the farm. It will supply information on PPE (personal protective equipment) selection and catalogs and applications for the John May Farm Safety Fund, and roadway safety tips in conjunction with the state troopers.



BEEF SEMINARS

Here are some of the beef seminars from the New York Beef Council to be held in the beef area of the Toyota Building:

Daily presentations beginning at 10 a.m. will feature:
 
10 a.m.: ABCs of EPDs - Phil Trowbridge, Trowbridge Angus
 
11 a.m.: Trace Minerals - Its role on the Cattle Immune System, Dr. Bob Gentry, Multimin
 
Noon: Quality - The Consumer Expectations, Jean O’Toole/ Katherine Bronson, NYBC - Thursday
 
Noon: Beef Up Your Marketing, Jean O’Toole/ Katherine Bronson, NYBC - Friday
 
1 p.m.: Johne’s - What it is and Programs Available, Dr. Melanie Hemenway, NYSCHAP
 
2 p.m.: Unraveling Official Identification, Dr Jane Lewis, USDA Ag. And Markets
 
3 p.m.: Beef showmanship clinic,  Robert Groom/ Jeanne White-  Thursday
 
3 p.m.: Fitting clinic, Robert Groom - Friday
Saturday will be dedicated to youth doing the presentations on different related beef topics. Grab a seat on the bleachers as these young individuals demonstrate their experiences and knowledge of the beef industry. Jean O’Toole, the new executive director of the New York Beef Council, and Katherine Bronson will open the presentations.
 
10 a.m.: How to Master “Agvocacy,” Jean O’Toole/ Katherine Bronson, NYBC
 
11 a.m.: Our National Livestock Judging Experience in Louisville, KY- By Melissa Keller, NY Junior Beef Producer
 
11 a.m.: Three Ways to get Involved with the Beef Industry, Megan Cranwell, NY Junior Beef Producer
 
Noon: What I Learned about NYBC (NY Beef Council) through C2C (Cattlemen to Consumers) Program, Jala Murphy, NY Junior Beef Producer
 
12:30 p.m.: What Telling our Story Means and Why We Should, By Sam and Sarah Birdsall, NY Junior Beef Producers
 
1 p.m.: Small Steps to Becoming Socially Savvy in our Beef Industry, By Anna King, NY Junior Beef Producer
 
1:30 p.m.: Important Factors When Doing a Project Beef Animal for Sales at County Fairs - Feed, Nutrition, Record-keeping, Animal Care, Marketing, etc., By Daisy Trowbridge and Jordin Radley, NY Junior Beef Producers
 
2 p.m.: Primal and Retail Beef Cuts, By Loretta and Suzie Lippert, NY Junior Beef Producers
 
As you attend the presentations enjoy a hot beef sundae served up daily by the New York Beef Producers, starting at 11:00 a.m.
 
The New York Beef Council will have a face-to-face presence at this year’s NY Farm Show! Stop by to “Beef Together” with the NYBC’s innovative marketing initiatives to promote YOU, our farmers, and the quality beef you produce.
 
A live beef cattle display representing numerous beef breeds will enhance our Beef Area, including breed information to take home.
 
Engage with the “Face of Our Farmers.” Beef Farmers have filled out questioners to help you get to know them better. Engage in a conversation with beef producers, see their likes, dislikes and ask them beef related questions. 

Pick up a Scavenger Hunt paper at the Beef Gazebo and then read our “Face of our Farmers” posters to get your answers and win a prize.
 
Beef recipes and beef related information also will be available in the beef area for attendees to take home and enjoy.

FOREST SEMINARS

Free programs to help landowners get more benefits from their woodlots will be presented by the New York Forest Owners Association each day of the New York Farm Show.

Visitors to the show can meet with a forester from the State Department of Environmental Conservation or speak with a Cornell trained volunteer.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their questions and pause at the booth area before or after attending a seminar program. The DEC foresters and trained volunteers are there to help with resource materials, displays and expert advice.
 
 “Learn More, Earn More” seminars are free and open to all. Topics include federal cost sharing for woodlot improvements, working with foresters, improving bird habitat, heating with wood, and forest farming. Programs start on the hour and allow time for questions and discussion.
 
The booth is on the main corridor of the Arts and Home Center, and the seminars are held in the Somerset Room just steps away on the lower level of the building.

These programs are presented by the New York Forest Owners Association in cooperation with the NY Department of Environmental Conservation, Cornell Cooperative Extension, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and with special thanks to each of the expert speakers.
 

Seminar topics and speakers for each day include:
Thursday, Feb. 23
 
11 a.m.: DEC Can Help Family Forest Owners, by Matt Swayze, state Department of Environmental Conservation
1 p.m.: Assessing Impacts from Deer, by Kristie Sullivan, Dept. of Natural Resources, Cornell University
2 p.m.: Legacy Planning for Your Property, by Shorna Allred, Dept. of Natural Resources, Cornell University
3 p.m.: Getting Federal Aid for Woodlot Improvements, by Michael Fournier, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service
 
Friday, Feb. 24
 
10 a.m.: Unwanted Vegetation in Your Woods, by Peter Smallidge, NYS Extension Forester, Cornell University
11 a.m.: Woodlot Inventory: How Many Trees Do You Have?, by Peter Smallidge, NYS Extension Forester, Cornell University
1 p.m.: Insects and Diseases that Threaten Your Woods, by Mark Whitmore, Dept. of Natural Resources, Cornell University
2 p.m.: The Law: Rights and Responsibilities of Woodlot Owners, by Timothy Fratesch Esq. Fratesch Law Firm, Syracuse
3 p.m.: Getting Federal Aid for Woodlot Improvements, by Michael Fournier, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service
 
Saturday, Feb. 25
 
10 a.m.: Heat with Wood While Growing Timber, Michael Kelleher, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
11 a.m.: Improve Bird Habitat with Smart Timber Management, by Suzanne Treyger, Forest Program Manager, Audubon New York
1 p.m.: Working with Consulting Foresters, by Rene Germain, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
2 p.m.: Wilhelm Farm: A Case Study in Agroforestry, by Ann Wilhelm & Bill Bentley, woodlot owners
3 p.m.: Woodlots and Income Taxes, by Hugh Canham, Emeritus Professor, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry
 

Visit the New York Forest Owners Association website (www.nyfoa.org for more information.

3-Day New York Farm Show Kicks Off Feb. 25

By DEBRA J. GROOM
EMPIRE FARM & DAIRY
 

A farmer shows his little girl the huge piece of machinery at last year's Farm Show

The New York Farm Show kicks off its 31st year in late February with three days filled with everything new and innovative for New York state farmers.
 
More than 225,000 square feet of exhibition space indoors in six buildings at the New York State Fairgrounds will be filled with farm equipment, booths with helpful information, demonstrations, seminars and workshops and, of course, the ever-popular toy auction and sale.
 
The show runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 25, 26 and 27 at the fairgrounds Admission is $5 at the door and free for those less than age 18. Parking is free and shuttle buses are available for various buildings.
 
Tickets are available from many Northeast equipment outlets.
 
Visitors can shop and compare the latest equipment and technology and then buy the items to help make their farms more efficient. Show Director Scott Grigor said everyone should visit the show website at www.newyorkfarmshow.com to see a full list of new products.
 

A restored tractor that was being sold by the FFA Association last year

Many organizations will offer workshops and presentations, including the New York Beef Industry Council, forest management workshops and agricultural safety program.
 
“These organizations have dedicated a lot of time and effort to provide high quality programs for the show visitors,” Grigor said.
 
A popular highlight each year is the Robert Watson Memorial Toy Auction, which begins at 5 p.m. Feb. 26 in the Empire Room of the Arts and Homes Building. 

Nearly 200 farm toys will be sold to the highest bidder, with all proceeds benefiting the New York FFA. Visitors can view farm toys at the toy show in the Art & Homes building before the auction.
 
PRECISION AG workshop
 
A highlight of the farm show this year is a new program called “Precision Agriculture: Decision Making for a Profitable Future,” from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Feb. 25 in the Arts and Home Center building.
 
Developed by the New York Farm Viability Institute, the program will include discussions about precision agriculture, the hardware and software needed for precision agriculture (such as harvest technology, planting and crop care and transforming yield data to management decisions) and optimizing variable rate seeding technology. 
 
There also will be a panel discussion with a mix of farmer experience and ag industry expertise.
 
David Grusenmeyer, managing director of the New York Farm Viability Institute, said precision agriculture allows farmers to collect the data they need to make decisions on which crops to plant in certain soils and how much nutrients and fertilizer is needed for that soil and crop.
 

A safety mask at the NY Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health 

exhibit

The goal is to optimize the amount of money made over the amount of money spent in growing the crops.
 
“There can be six to eight different soil types or topographies in one field on one farm,” Grusenmeyer said. “Crops grow differently in one soil from another and nutrients are used differently (in different soils). We need to manage our farms not just as one big field.”
 
As an example, he said a farmer who has a field monitor on his combine knows exactly what his crop yield is for various sections of his field. If there is a wide variety in yield from one part of the field to the next, the farmer can make adjustments to maximize yield in the lower-producing areas.
 
“What we have to do is control those variations and profit from it,” Grusenmeyer said.
 
Some things that can be done to manage the yields is change the seeding rate, change the seeding depth, change to a different seed variety and keep tighter control on fertilizer use.
 
This is exactly what Todd DuMond does at his farm in Union Springs, Cayuga County.
 
DuMond, who grows about 5,000 acres of soybeans, corn and other grains, uses precision agriculture in his production. He said it comes down to crop optimization and machine optimization to ensure he is obtaining the most he can get out of his soil.
 
He uses a machine that has an autotrack system on it, so it always follows the same tracks in the soil when planting or harvesting. He said this allows for less overlap between rows.
 
The machine and the data he receives from his computerized equipment also gives him the ability to apply seed, fertilizer or other nutrients in the proper amount.
 
“We started gathering data in 2006 and began application in 2010,” DuMond said. “The real value is from the data. We use the data to put everything (seed, fertilizer) wher it can be utilized.”
 
Here is a schedule of what will be discussed at the seminar:
 
** 3 p.m.: Learn what’s new in precision ag tech for field crops and horticultural systems, the greatest opportunity areas.
** 3:20 p.m.: Three commercial technology leaders tackle how to transform field and feed quality data into management decisions, how planting and crop care equipment technologies can be harnessed and how yield maps/data can improve operation efficiency.
 
Attendees will learn how to evaluate the data collected over the growing season (planting, soil testing, yield, application, Feed Quality from JD Harvest Lab) and interpret big data in desktop software setting to provide real information from which the grower can either streamline record keeping for insurance purposes and/or understand what practices are making a profit on their farm. Winter planning allows optimization of the crop season to best fit your agronomic and profit practices.
 
** 4 p.m.: This session covers auto-steer’s entry-point tech, costs and benefits, plus expected financial impacts.
** 4:20 p.m.: The New York Corn and Soybean Growers Association will present a variable-rate seeding model to be farm-tested this year.
** 4:40 p.m.: Farmer survey results will be shared on promising technologies, barriers to adoption, costs, labor concerns and more.
** 4:50 p.m.: Travis Torrey of Torrey Farms, Dan Shirley of North Harbor Dairy and Joe Brightly of Brightly Farms will share experiences with three different precision ag systems.
 

Antique milk bottles on display at last year's Farm Show

Dairy robotics
 
Robotic technology continues to be the biggest dairy game-changer for all farm sizes.
 
Learn what improvements are available at the Dairy Robotic Update Friday, Feb. 26. All four robotic manufacturers will present their latest changes and new products in 30-minute sessions in the Bistro Room.
 
Here’s the schedule:
** 1:30 p.m.: Lely will highlight examples of Lely’s “large herd concept” plus on-farm results of its Vector robotic feeding system.
** 2 p.m.; AMS Galaxy will introduce its Cow Health Monitoring system offered on the Astrea 20.20 robotic milking system.
** 2:30 p.m.: GEA will share key details on its Dairy ProQ robotic rotary parlor and the soon-to-arrive single-box robot.
** 3 p.m.: DeLaval will cover the latest upgrades to its Voluntary Milking System plus the new stand-alone teat spray robot.
 
Bring your notebook plus lots of questions. This is a rare opportunity to see the equipment and quiz experts.
 
New products
 
Farm machine and equipment manufacturers each year come out with new gadgets and machinery to make work easier on the farm.
Cazenovia Equipment Co., with stores in Cazenovia, Chittenango, Clinton, Cortland, LaFayette, Lowville, Oneonta, Sandy Creek and Watertown, will be on hand at the New York Farm show with a number of its new products and technology.
 
Some of the new items it will show include a L300 series new square baler, a 8000 series self-propelled forage harvester and a XUV590 crossover utility vehicle.
 
Cazenovia Equipment sells and services more than 30 brands, including John Deere, Frontier, Ariens, Honda, Stihl, Kuhn, Pottinger, H&S and Geringhoff.

The company also offers renewable energy systems such as wind power, solar electricity, solar thermal, microhydro power, microgrids and hybrid systems.
 
“We’re happy to now provide wind turbine and solar panel leasing opportunities, which allow customers to acquire the benefits of renewable energy, with little or no money down,” a company official said. 

They also offer free site feasibility assessments. Cazenovia Equipment is in booth 815.
 
Beef information
 
New this year, attendees can engage with the “Face of Our Farmers,” which allows those at the show to get to know some beef farmers. Talk with beef producers, see their likes, dislikes and ask them beef related questions. Pick up a Scavenger Hunt form at the Beef Gazebo, read our “Face of our Farmers” posters to get your answers and win a prize.
 
Those coming to the show also can sign up for the Protein Challenge. The 30 Day Protein Challenge is a fun, step-by-step way to help people get an optimal amount of protein throughout the day.
 
Research shows some people can lose and/or maintain a healthy weight, support a healthy metabolism, and age more vibrantly by consuming more high-quality protein. Participants in the 30 Day Protein Challenge will receive daily emails with goals, tips and inspiration to keep on track.
 
The beef area in the Toyota Building also will have numerous beef recipes and beef related information for attendees.

Nelson Farms to Host Presentation at New York Farm Show

From Morrisville State College:

Nelson Farms, located in Nelson, Madison County, will present a seminar at the 2016 New York Farm Show at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 27 in the Bistro Room of the Arts & Homes Building, NYS Fairgrounds, Geddes.

The seminar will provide answers to questions about product development, legalities, product marketing and how Nelson Farms may be able to help. The seminar is free for anyone who attends the New York Farm Show.

“We’re really excited to be a part of the show and to share our knowledge and resources about product development with the public,” said Kristi Cranwell, director at Nelson Farms. “A lot of people may have a great product but may need a little help with value-added opportunities that will add to their profits. If we can provide even a starting point for those people, we’ve done our job.”

For 13 years, Nelson Farms, Morrisville State College’s small-scale, FDA inspected food processing incubator, with newly added shared-use facility, has been providing local farmers, growers, and producers the knowledge and resources to add value to their products, while offering workshops, trainings, and classes throughout the year.

Working closely with state Department of Agriculture & Markets, Nelson Farms also operates a Pride of New York Country Store, selling products produced in their own kitchens, as well as products from all regions of New York State. A variety of these products will be available for sale and sampling at their booth in the Arts & Home Building throughout show.

Tickets to the Farm Show, which will be held Feb. 25, 26 and 27, are available for free from Northeast Equipment Dealers or by writing to the New York Farm Show, PO Box 3470, Syracuse, NY 13220 (must include a self-addressed stamped envelope with request by Feb. 15). 

Adult tickets can also be purchased at the door for $5, children under 18 are free. Free parking and bus shuttles are available. 

For additional information about the Farm Show, visit www.newyorkfarmshow.com.

More Workshops, Exhibits Coming to the New York Farm Show in February

From Empire Farm & Dairy magazine:

By DEBRA J. GROOM

In addition to all the new items at the New York Farm Show, there are some returning workshops and items that everyone must see.

They are:

Machinery galore

Every type of tractor, backhoe, harvester, baler or any other kind of farm machinery a person would want will be on display at the New York Farm Show.

Attendees can see them up close and talk to sales personnel about what they offer. You also can get prices and equipment information to compare. Anyone in the market for something new will find it here.

Woodlot seminars

The New York Forest Owners Association is offering free daily Woodlot Seminars geared to help landowners boost the value of timber and woodlands. The seminars are in the Somerset Room of the Arts and Home Center.

Hot topics this year include cost-sharing for woodlot improvements, finding the right forester, the warning signs of disease and insects, as well as tips for successful timber sales. Other sessions include improving bird habitat, heating with wood, and forest farming, say Hugh Canham and Ron Pedersen, the program coordinators.

The Forest Owners Association is teaming up with the state Department of Environmental Conservation, Cornell Cooperative Extension and the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry to put on the program.

Here’s the daily lineup:

Thursday, Feb. 25

11 a.m.: You need a management plan: Step one for your woodlot, by Kristina Ferrare, Cornell Cooperative Extension

1 p.m.: Getting federal aid for woodlot improvements, by Michael Fournier, USDA/Natural Resource Conservation Service

2 p.m.: Improve bird habitat with smart timber management, by Suzanne Treyger, forest management specialist for Audubon New York

3 p.m.: What’s new in home heating with wood, by Guillermo Metz, renewable energy specialist, Cornell Cooperative Extension

Friday, Feb. 26

10 a.m.: Working with foresters: Finding the right one for you, by Peter Smallidge, NYS Extension forester at Cornell University

11 a.m.: Woodland thinning for timber health and production, by Peter Smallidge

1 p.m.: Signs of insect and disease threats to your woods, by Kim Adams, SUNY

2 p.m.: New wood products and opportunities for woodlot management, by William Smith, SUNY

3 p.m.: Getting federal aid for woodlot improvements, by Michael Fournier, U.S. Department of Agriculture/Natural Resources Conservation Service

Saturday, Feb. 27

10 a.m.: Secrets to harvesting and heating with wood, by Michael Kelleher, SUNY

11 a.m.: Forest farming for mushrooms, medicinals, forest fruits and more, by Steve Gabriel, Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Finger Lakes Permaculture Institute

1 p.m.: Making maple syrup for fun and profit, by Stephen Childs, Cornell Maple Program.

2 p.m.: Portable sawmills for woodlot owners, by David Williams, mill owner-operator from Bainbridge, Chenango County

3 p.m.: Dos and don’ts for a successful timber sale, by Hugh Canham, SUNY emeritus professor

For more on the New York Forest Owners Association, visit www.nyfoa.org

Beef seminars

The Beef Area in the Toyota Building has many seminars during the farm show.

The schedule is:

10 a.m. — Proper Care and Preparation of Cattle, Before The Show Season, Robert Groom and Jeanne White

11 a.m. — Start Them Right: Healthy Cows Raise Healthy Calves, Mark McCullouch, Merck Animal Health

Noon — Diagnosing Scours and the Choices to Treat Calves, Dr. Trent Lartz, veterinarian, Multimin, USA

1 p.m. — Cow Side Diagnostics, what is available to get answers quick, Dr. Trent Lartz, Multimin, USA

2 p.m. — Cattle Grading, grouping pooled cattle, Heather Birdsall, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cortland County

3 p.m. — How Ultra Sounding Improves EPDs and what it means for improving your herd, Andy Weaber

On Saturday, there will be three special presentations by New York Junior Beef Members

10 a.m. — How to prepare for a Junior Team Fitting Competition, Shelby Kelekenberg, junior beef member

10 a.m. — How to prepare for a Junior Team Marketing Competition, a New York junior beef member

Noon — Our National Livestock Challenge Experience in Louisville, Ky., Melissa Keller

Also, each day beginning at 11 a.m., the New York Beef Council will be on hand serving its famous Hot Beef Sundaes.

A live beef cattle display representing numerous beef breeds also will be on hand including breed information to take home.

Health and safety

The New York Center for Agricultural Medicine and Health hosts an interactive exhibit in the NYCAMH booth in the Center of Progress building.

You will see:

n The new “Game of Logging” is hands-on logging safety training.

n Sign up for the Rollover Protective Structure rebate program.

n Check out the interactive youth displays of farm hazards

n Quiz New York State Police on road safety, machinery lighting and gun controls.

n Get your blood pressure checked for free.

4-H fundraiser

The 4-Hers are back with a hitch pin fundraiser.

You can buy Tisco 6-by-¾-inch hitch pins at $5 each or five for $20. Look for those smiling 4-H faces and the hitch pins at the main entrance doors of the Center of Progress, Dairy and Horticulture buildings.

The hitch pins will be available until they all are sold.

We want your opinion

American Agriculturist magazine will be at the show to take polls of show attendees.

Some of the questions may include:

n If the election for U.S. president was held today, who would you vote for?

n Should assault rifles be banned from U.S. sale?

n Are you using cover crops in 2016? If so, which ones?

n Due to current low prices, how will you cut corn production costs?

n What new ag technology (machinery, crops, livestock) are you most excited about?

n What certified organic products are you most interested in producing?

Taking the poll qualifies attendees to win a $350 Tractor Supply gift card, Leatherman tools worth $65 each or free one-year subscriptions. Sample magazine copies and special show-rate subscriptions are also available.

New York Farm Show Kicks Off Feb. 25

From Empire Farm & Dairy magazine:

By DEBRA J. GROOM

The New York Farm Show kicks off its 31st year in late February with three days filled with everything new and innovative for New York state farmers.
 
More than 225,000 square feet of exhibition space indoors in six buildings at the New York State Fairgrounds will be filled with farm equipment, booths with helpful information, demonstrations, seminars and workshops and, of course, the ever-popular toy auction and sale.
 
The show runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 25, 26 and 27 at the fairgrounds Admission is $5 at the door and free for those less than age 18. Parking is free and shuttle buses are available for various buildings.
 
Tickets are available from many Northeast equipment outlets or by writing to New York Farm Show, P.O. Box 3470, Syracuse, NY  13220 (include a self-addressed stamped envelope with request by Feb. 15).
 
Visitors can shop and compare the latest equipment and technology and then buy the items to help make their farms more efficient. Show Director Scott Grigor said everyone should visit the show website (www.newyorkfarmshow.com) to see a full list of new products, workshops and seminars.
 
Many organizations will offer workshops and presentations, including the New York Beef Industry Council, forest management workshops and agricultural safety program.
 
“These organizations have dedicated a lot of time and effort to provide high quality programs for the show visitors,” Grigor said.
 
A popular highlight each year is the Robert Watson Memorial Toy Auction, which begins at 5 p.m. Feb. 26 in the Empire Room of the Arts and Homes Building.
 
Nearly 200 farm toys will be sold to the highest bidder, with all proceeds benefitting the New York FFA.
 
Visitors can view farm toys at the toy show in the Art & Homes building before the auction.
 
PRECISION Agriculture workshop
 
A highlight of the farm show this year is a new program called “Precision Agriculture: Decision Making for a Profitable Future,” from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Feb. 25 in the Arts and Home Center building.
 
Developed by the New York Farm Viability Institute, the program will include discussions about precision agriculture, the hardware and software needed for precision agriculture (such as harvest technology, planting and crop care and transforming yield data to management decisions) and optimizing variable rate seeding technology. 
 
There also will be a panel discussion with a mix of farmer experience and ag industry expertise.
 
David Grusenmeyer, managing director of the New York Farm Viability Institute, said precision agriculture allows farmers to collect the data they need to make decisions on which crops to plant in certain soils and how much nutrients and fertilizer is needed for that soil and crop.
 
The goal is to optimize the amount of money made over the amount of money spent in growing the crops.
 
“There can be six to eight different soil types or topographies Nin one field on one farm,” Grusenmeyer said. “Crops grow differently in one soil from another and nutrients are used differently (in different soils).
 
“We need to manage our farms not just as one big field.”
 
As an example, he said a farmer who has a field monitor on his combine knows exactly what his crop yield is for various sections of his field. If there is a wide variety in yield from one part of the field to the next, the farmer can make adjustments to maximize yield in the lower-producing areas.
 
“What we have to do is control those variations and profit from it,” Grusenmeyer said.
 
Some things that can be done to manage the yields is change the seeding rate, change the seeding depth, change to a different seed variety and keep tighter control on fertilizer use.
 
This is exactly what Todd DuMond does at his farm in Union Springs, Cayuga County.
 
DuMond, who grows about 5,000 acres of soybeans, corn and other grains, uses precision agriculture in his production. He said it comes down to crop optimization and machine optimization to ensure he is obtaining the most he can get out of his soil.
 
He uses a machine that has an autotrack systme on it, so it always follows the same tracks in the soil when planting or harvesting. He said this allows for less overlap between rows.
 
The machine and the data he receives from his computerized equipment also gives him the ability to apply seed, fertilizer or other nutrients in the proper amount.
 
“We started gathering data in 2006 and began application in 2010,” DuMond said. “The real value is from the data. We use the data to put everything (seed, fertilizer) wher it can be utilized.”
 
Here is a schedule of what will be discussd at the seminar:
** 3 p.m.: Learn what’s new in precision ag tech for field crops and horticultural systems, the greatest opportunity areas.
** 3:20 p.m.: Three commercial technology leaders tackle how to transform field and feed quality data into management decisions, how planting and crop care equipment technologies can be harnessed and how yield maps/data can improve operation efficiency.
 
Attendees will learn how to evaluate the data collected over the growing season (planting, soil testing, yield, application, Feed Quality from JD Harvest Lab) and interpret big data in desktop software setting to provide real information from which the grower can either streamline record keeping for insurance purposes and/or understand what practices are making a profit on their farm. 

Winter planning allows optimization of the crop season to best fit your agronomic and profit practices.
 
** 4 p.m.: This session covers auto-steer’s entry-point tech, costs and benefits, plus expected financial impacts.
** 4:20 p.m.: The New York Corn and Soybean Growers Association will present a variable-rate seeding model to be farm-tested this year.
** 4:40 p.m.: Farmer survey results will be shared on promising technologies, barriers to adoption, costs, labor concerns and more.
** 4:50 p.m.: Travis Torrey of Torrey Farms, Dan Shirley of North Harbor Dairy and Joe Brightly of Brightly Farms will share experiences with three different precision ag systems.
 
Dairy robotics
 
Robotic technology continues to be the biggest dairy game-changer for all farm sizes.
Learn what improvements are available at the Dairy Robotic Update Friday, Feb. 26. All four robotic manufacturers will present their latest changes and new products in 30-minute sessions in the Bistro Room.
 
Here’s the schedule:
** 1:30 p.m.: Lely will highlight examples of Lely’s “large herd concept” plus on-farm results of its Vector robotic feeding system.
** 2 p.m.; AMS Galaxy will introduce its Cow Health Monitoring system offered on the Astrea 20.20 robotic milking system.
** 2:30 p.m.: GEA will share key details on its Dairy ProQ robotic rotary parlor and the soon-to-arrive single-box robot.
** 3 p.m.: DeLaval will cover the latest upgrades to its Voluntary Milking System plus the new stand-alone teat spray robot.
 
Bring your notebook plus lots of questions. This is a rare opportunity to see the equipment and quiz experts.
 
New products
 
Farm machine and equipment manufacturers each year come out with new gadgets and machinery to make work easier on the farm.
 
Cazenovia Equipment Co., with stores in Cazenovia, Chittenango, Clinton, Cortland, LaFayette, Lowville, Oneonta, Sandy Creek and Watertown, will be on hand at the New York Farm show with a number of its new products and technology.
 
Some of the new items it will show include a L300 series new square baler, a 8000 series self-propelled forage harvester and a XUV590 corssover utility vehicle.
 
Cazenovia Equipment sells and services more than 30 brands, including John Deere, Frontier, Ariens, Honda, Stihl, Kuhn, Pottinger, H&S and Geringhoff. The company also offers renewable energy systems such as wind power, solar electricity, solar thermal, microhydro power, microgrids and hybrid systems.
 
“We’re happy to now provide wind turbine and solar panel leasing opportunities, which allow customers to acquire the benefits of renewable energy, with little or no money down,” a company official said. They also offer free site feasibility assessments.
 
Cazenovia Equipment is in booth 815.
 
Beef information
 
New this year, attendees can engage with the “Face of Our Farmers,” which allows those at the show to get to know some beef farmers. Talk with beef producers, see their likes, dislikes and ask them beef related questions. Pick up a Scavenger Hunt form at the Beef Gazebo, read our “Face of our Farmers” posters to get your answers and win a prize.
 
Those coming to the show also can sign up for the Protein Challenge. The 30 Day Protein Challenge is a fun, step-by-step way to help people get an optimal amount of protein throughout the day.
 
Research shows some people can lose and/or maintain a healthy weight, support a healthy metabolism, and age more vibrantly by consuming more high-quality protein. Participants in the 30 Day Protein Challenge will receive daily emails with goals, tips and inspiration to keep on track.
 
The beef area in the Toyota Building also will have numerous beef recipes and beef related information for attnedees.

If you like what you read from the magazine, you can subscribe to it by sending $50 for one year or $75 for two years to Empire Farm & Dairy, 260 Washington St., Watertown, NY  13601

Today's the Last Day for the New York Farm Show

Be sure to get out for today's last day of the New York Farm Show.

Here's my report from the first day on Thursday:

Go to http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/curr/new-york-farm-show-has-lots-to-see-and-do-20150227 to check it out.

New York Farm Show Opens Today

Anyone who wants to see the largest and greatest in agriculture should head to Syracuse today.

It’s time again for the New York Farm Show, set for 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. today through Saturday at the New York State Fairgrounds in Geddes.

The show is celebrating its 30^th year and this year, there will be more than 215,000 square feet of exhibition space, all indoors in six fairgrounds buildings (Center of Progress, Dairy, Horticulture, International, Art and Home and Science).

In addition to booths and demonstrations of the newest and brightest ideas in agriculture, there also are a number of new workshops and p[roducts being displayed this year.

NEW WORKSHOPS

New ag workshops on Thursday include programs for new and beginning farmers, agroforestry operations and retail and wholesale meat opportunities.

Friday’s new programs will foscus on grants available for ag producers, how to profit from the Dairy Profit Monitor and information form the Dairy Farm Business Management summary.

On Saturday, new programs will be conducted on draft horses as a power source, used tractor buying tips for small farms and reducing heifer raising costs by grazing.

NEW PRODUCTS

About 420 exhibitors will show new products at the show. Check out the varaious booths in the six buildings to see some of these products on display:

** Automaitc feeding system which works 24/7 to put fresh feed from silos or feed kitchens right in front of dairy cows or heifers.

** Airless ski-steer wheels from Michelin which have greater wear on concrete and asphalt.

** Autodrive, autosteer guidance systems for tractors, sprayers and combines.

** Calf milk taxi that makes calf feeding easier, with larger tanks, new dispensing display monitors, larger wheels, automatic cleaning and LED driving lights for after-dark feeding.

** Compact water drinker made to fill with a nose push from an animal.

** Cow monitoring system using eartag microchip technology

** Dairy waterbed with two isolated chambers, one for the cow’s body and one for her knees and hocks

** Heavy-duty wheel loader which uses 25 percent less diesel fuel

** High-density round baler eliminated the need for a cam track and can roll higher bale densities 4 feet wide and up to 60 inches high

** Italian ryegrass which can produce several cuttings of high-quality forage

** United Wind wind turbine leases for farms

** Loader bucket shoe controls the leading edge of loader buckets and is perfect for moving snow and mulch and keeping the blade from surface digging

** Mobile lagoon agitator eliminates the expense of lagoon or pit cleanout once the pit or lagoon is pumped out

** Neoprene boots keep feet dry

** Organic hybrid seed corn

** Precast pasture bunk made of concrete with ½-inch rebar and 10-gauge wire

** Wide-discharge spreader that provides faster unloading with improved material breakup.

POPULAR WORKSHOPS

Some of the most popular workshops from years past will be back. Topics include farm safety; woodlot management and other wood issues; daily dairy robotics roundtable discussions; and programs for beef producers.

Tickets to the show are $5 at the door. Children less than age 18 are admitted for free. Free parking and bus shuttles are available.

New York Farm Show Opens Thursday, Feb. 20

The New York Farm Show opens at 8:30 a.m. Thursday at the New York State Fairgrounds in Geddes.

This year's event, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 20, 21 and 22, will include more than 400 exhibitors in six buildings -- Arts and Home Center, Center of Progress, Dairy, Horticulture, International Pavilion and Science.

The Farm Show also includes many seminars on a wide range of agriculture topics. Included will be 30-minute briefings in the Bistro Room of the Arts and Home Center beginning at 12:30 p.m. each day concerning changes in the recently adopted Farm Bill that will affect crop and revenue insurance options. These briefings are important because farmers must make decisions on insurance programs by the March 15 signup deadline.

These briefings are being put on by the state Department of Agriculture and Markets. More details about the Farm Bill's impact also will be available at the Ag and Markets exhibit in the International Pavilion.

Some of the special displays this year include:

Robotics -- Daily Dairy Robotonomics mini-seminars put four robotic manufacturer experts on the platform.

New York Beef Producers -- Offers a pen-of-five beef improvement topics daily on cattle show fitting, fencing and handling, grazing and forage management and more.

Anaerobic Digesters -- There could be big money available for digesters this year, so the UEM Group (AD designer) and New York State Energy and Research Development Authority and the Antares Group (NYS digester ombudsman) are teaming up for a Dairy Anaerobic Digester Profits mini-seminar at 1 p.m. Feb. 21 (Friday) at the show.

New York Forest Owners Association -- Offers many workshops during the show on 14 topics ranging from forest/woodlot management, market outlook, low-impact harvesting, portable sawmills, wildlife habitat, feral pigs, timber pasturing and more.

For an exhibitor list by category, go http://newyorkfarmshow.com/customPage.aspx?p=273 to this link.

Admission is $ 5 at the door; children under 18 are free. Tickets are available for free from Northeast Equipment Dealers.

Parking is free, and shuttle buses run all day to the six farm show buildings.

New York Farm Show is co-sponsored by the Northeast Equipment Dealers Association and American Agriculturist magazine. 
  

New York Farm Show Opens Today for Three-Day Run

Geddes, NY --The New York Farm Show opens today at the New York State Fairgrounds outside Syracuse.

Go to http://newyorkfarmshow.com/story-ny-farm-show-offers-top-notch-tech-showcase-28-94066 to read a story about what the show has to offer.

The show is open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Equipment, services and organizations are showcased in five heated buildings on the fairgrounds. There will be about 425 exhibitors with everything from crops to dairy and beef and other commodities.

There also will be chances to learn a thing or two with a host of mini-seminars and workshops being offered..