Imagine a one-stop shop showcasing the latest farming equipment, machinery, tools and services. That is exactly what you will find at the 51st annual Wisconsin Public Service Farm Show. Thousands of working farmers from Wisconsin, as well as the rest of the Midwest and Canada, will gather for this premier event, which will be held March 29-31 at the Experimental Aviation Association Grounds in Oshkosh. Admission to the WPS Farm Show is free.

"To stay competitive, farmers need to keep current on the emerging technologies that can boost productivity, enhance safety and increase energy efficiency on the farm, but doing that research can take a lot of time," said Rob Juneau, WPS's Farm Show manager. "By bringing the latest and greatest ideas and strategies together under one roof, we make it easier for farmers to get information and recommendations that can add value on their farm."

Expanded space

An 18,000-square-foot addition to the north side of Hangar C will allow room for additional indoor exhibitors. And for convenience, 46 indoor restrooms have been added east of Hangar C.

More than 400 top-quality vendors are expected for this year's show. They will be available to answer questions, demonstrate products and discuss your needs. Booths will feature watering equipment, milking equipment, lighting, pest control, fertilizers, grain storage, tractors, stray voltage and more. In addition, attendees will have an opportunity to visit exhibits on animal genetics, hygiene and health; organic certification; insurance; real estate; and financial services.

Many exhibitors offer reduced prices and exclusive discounts to WPS Farm Show attendees. Since the show is right before planting season, it may be a good time to consider purchasing new equipment or services. 

Plan time to check out WPS's displays featuring a farm wiring system and how it is set up from the pole to the electrical panel. A new grade-level service display will feature a combination transfer switch, distribution panel and over current protection. WPS agricultural consultants will be available to explain these displays and how these strategies can benefit your farm. They also will be on hand to answer individual energy-management questions throughout the three-day event.

Value-added features

Educational seminars will be held during the Farm Show. For a current schedule, visit wisconsinpublicservice.com/business/farmshow_seminar_schedule.aspx?type=Attendees.

Be sure also to check out these services and activities:

• While you are at the 2011 Farm Show taking care of your farm, take care of yourself too. UW-Oshkosh nursing students will offer free blood pressure checks. Blood sugar screenings will be available for $3 and cholesterol tests for $8—or both for $10. If you plan to have a cholesterol test, fast and drink only water for at least 12 hours prior to your test. Screenings will be offered on Tuesday and Thursday only.

• When it's time for a snack, visit the centrally located food tent featuring a wide selection of Wisconsin food products, many offered by local commodity groups and service organizations.

• The action-packed Kiddie Tractor Pull will be held Wednesday at 1 p.m. outside of the food tent.

• The seventh annual silent auction will take place all three days. Proceeds will benefit the Wisconsin FFA Foundation.

Getting around

Parking at the farm show is $3 per vehicle. Free motorized scooters, manual wheelchairs and wagons are available at no charge to attendees who need mobility assistance. Farm show gates will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday.

For more information about the 2011 Farm Show, visit us online at wisconsinpublicservice.com/business/show.aspx.

The show is green

For the fourth year, the WPS Farm Show will be powered by NatureWise, WPS's renewable energy program. To learn more about NatureWise, visit http://www.wisconsinpublicservice.com/environment/naturewise.aspx.