10 SOURCE | Spring 2022
National Ag Day
Taking the message of agriculture to Washington , D . C .
After two years of virtual programming , National Ag Day was back in a big way this year – on the National Mall in Washington , DC . Farm machinery and equipment , along with exhibits representing the myriad agricultural segments , lined the walkways of the Mall March 21-22 .
“ The goal of the exhibit was to showcase how innovation and technology drive sustainability on the farm ,” said Amy Bradford , GROWMARK Corporate Communications Manager , and president of the National Ag Day Committee . “ It was thrilling to see agriculture represented in our nation ’ s Capital , and to witness the scores of people interested in learning about how American farmers and ranchers produce food , fiber , and fuel for a growing world population .”
While the equipment was popular with many attendees – what kid ( or adult ) can pass up climbing into a tractor cab or the seat of a combine ? – the DeLaval mobile milking exhibit saw a steady stream of inquisitive attendees . The robotic milker demonstrated the entire milking process , without a human touch of anything other than the button which started the machine .
Other exhibits included a Hemp House which showcased the use of the industrial fiber in housing materials , and in the new i3 BMW electric automobile ; samples of genetically modified pineapple and papaya frozen treats ; and several companies , including Microsoft , demonstrating the technology housed in the equipment .
Ag company representatives also hosted tours for legislators , regulators , and agency officials to drive home the connection between innovation , technology , and sustainable farming practices .