The field crops are planted and starting to grow as the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Simplot Grower Solutions and Atlantic Tractor partner for the 2025 Ag Showcase. The free annual event takes place Aug. 6 at UMES’ Research, Extension and Teaching Farm in Princess Anne.
What can participants expect?
Agricultural producers on all production scales can learn about the results of corn and soybean variety field trials using smart-farming technology, said Adam Smith, crop advisor with Simplot Grower Solutions. Smith and associates set up the corn plot with seed varieties from Innvictis Seed Solutions, Brevant Seeds and Seed Consultants using 2×2 fertilizer placement (AgroLiquid and Innvictis) that will be “compared to grower standard and no liquid fertilizer application.” The trial also looks at outcomes of applying Xyway fungicide at planting.
Soybean trials compare seed varieties and the application of the foliar nutrient, Lucento (FMC) fungicide.
Atlantic Tractor will provide updates on ExactShot agronomy introduced at last year’s event. An added attraction for attendees will be a demonstration of Furrow Vision, a performance upgrade for John Deere planters. An operations center for precision agricultural equipment will be held in the on-site UMES classroom.
“This year’s Ag Showcase features expansion and updates on previous highlights in precision agriculture, including crops, equipment and phosphorus management products,” Smith said. “We’re also excited about a new addition to this year’s lineup, a precision agriculture drone demonstration by Sentinel Robotics Solutions.”
UMES faculty and extension specialists are gearing up to share agricultural research, beekeeping, farming systems and best practices on a variety of vegetables, herbs and small fruits, said Berran Rogers, coordinator for UMES’ Small Farm Program. Agricultural exhibitors and vendors will also be on site to showcase their products and services.
“The event’s goal is to present information that may create new opportunities for growers. We’re thankful for the collaborative efforts that help us fulfill our mission of service to the agricultural stakeholders in the Mid-Atlantic.”
The event is free, but pre-registration is required before July 30 by visiting www.umes.edu/extension/events. Lunch, sponsored by Mountaire Prime Quality Grain, is provided. For more information or for vendor registration, email cjsankar@umes.edu.
Gail Stephens, agricultural communications, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences, UMES Extension, gcstephens@umes.edu, 410-621-3850.
Photos by Todd Dudek, agricultural communications, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences, UMES Extension, tdudek@umes.edu.
