By Whitnie Yoder, 2024 Sunbelt Ag Expo Social Media Intern
The Darrell Williams Research Farm is known to be a busy spot at the Sunbelt Ag Expo, and today was no exception. A tractor-driven trolly pulls attendees out to the fields every 15 minutes to view the harvest, tillage, and equipment demonstrations. The ‘southern staples’ of cotton, peanuts, corn, and soybeans accompany different varieties of hay that are saved and harvested on display at the Expo each year.
Not only are the classic commodities exhibited, but the equipment brands and companies are showcased as well. Every half hour, some form of the harvest process begins, and visitors can view and ask questions from the harvesters. This provides satisfaction for both producers and consumers. Many growers do not have the opportunity to simply view and take notes of a piece of equipment performing a harvest. Similarly, those not directly involved in production agriculture rarely find themselves watching a harvest, cutting, or digging in real time.
These field demonstrations have been a staple element of the Expo since its inception and seem to need more time to find their way out of the program. In recent years, technology like drones and autonomous tractors have been added to the farm. The agricultural companies are loyal to support the Expo and get their brand out at the same time. Away from the booths, equipment companies enjoy these demonstrations, as they can truly showcase the features of their equipment.
Some enjoy the short trolly ride as a break from walking, but for many, these field demonstrations are undoubtedly helpful to their operations. Providing a short look into what these tractors, balers, and rakers can do helps some make purchase decisions, and simply offers enjoyment for others. Whatever the reason for making the trek out to the Expo farm, this long-lasting tradition is doubtless a large piece of the reason we all love the Sunbelt Ag Expo.
