London, Ohio- On September 21, 2022, senior FFA members from Agriculture & Livestock Production, Diesel Power Technologies, Natural Resource Management, Retail Ag Services, and Veterinary Science had the opportunity to attend the 60th Farm Science Review.
Farm Science Review shows visitors the latest agriculture innovations by having demonstration plots for machinery to show off harvesting, strip-tilling, global positioning, planting, and tillage. There was also a nod to the history of agriculture with antique farm machinery on display, including the International 230 Farmall that was restored by the MVCTC Ag & Livestock Production Program last year.
Aside from farm machinery, there were college booths for seniors to learn about possible future college opportunities.
Representatives from Ohio EPA and The Ohio State University conducted a demonstration fish survey which the Natural Resources lab really enjoyed. Fishery technicians used a low-voltage generator to electroshock fish and collected the temporarily disoriented fish to determine species and calculate diversity.
Veterinary Science seniors attended Ask the Experts sessions on “ Will there be a vet when my animals are sick?” and “ What’s happening to OTC antibiotics?” Students also attended “Health considerations for the small sheep and goat operations.” There were plenty of educational opportunities on this trip, and everyone enjoyed going.
The Molly Caren Agricultural Center (MCAC) near London, Ohio, is home to the Farm Science Review and attracts over 100,000 visitors from all over the United States and Canada, who come for three days to peruse 4,000 product lines from 600 commercial exhibitors, and learn the latest in agricultural production. The educational programs feature Ohio State specialists and are second to none in the agricultural exhibition world.
The 100-acre exhibit area allows visitors and exhibitors to experience all aspects of agriculture production. Inside the exhibit area are the static displays, but the FSR dedicates over 600 acres of land for field demonstrations such as corn and soybean combines, tillage, nutrient and lime applications, and drainage installations.
The Gwynne Conservation Area, GCA, is a 67-acre demonstration and education area for agriculture and natural resources management practices. The Gwynne is home to a natural stream, wetland, ponds, windbreak plantings, crop tree plantings, wildlife food plots, soil pit, riparian forests, dry hydrant and much more. The Gywnne also has an all-season log cabin where educational sessions and classes are taught.