In addition to the hundreds of commercial vendors at the 56th annual Farm Science Review, Sept. 18-20, visitors can also take in advice from an array of sources to improve farm operations, large or small. It's become an expectation of the review, and for that, organizers say "welcome back," but it's not without something new each year.

The exhibit area is now 20 acres larger, and improvements have been made so visitors can better access parking, as well as the exhibits and other offerings.

"We think these improvements will make a big difference to visitors," says Nick Zachrich, FSR manager.

"With close to 130,000 people coming to the show every year, we want to make it as safe and as easy as possible to enter and exit."

Last year's torrential rain canceled some demonstrations and created a soaked exhibit area. To help address that, a large, multiyear drainage project has been ongoing. The project was ramped up this year with even more gravel brought in than what was planned. "We are constantly improving roadways inside the exhibit area and if that rain were to happen again this year, it would be noticeably different on certain areas of the site," Zachrich says.

Another improvement is the relocation of the "Ride and Drives," where attendees can test drive farm equipment and vehicles from participating exhibitors. This year it's offered immediately inside the east gates near the Ohio State University Extension Agronomic Crops Team display and the antique tractor clubs.

Speaking of antique tractors, Zachrich is quick to point out that this year's show has more than ever. "The antique tractor clubs have really stepped it up this year as compared to last," he says.

For a firsthand look, check out the hundreds of demonstration plots and comprehensive field demonstrations that will take place every day of the show.

"From a farmer's perspective, there's a lot of new equipment — every combine manufacturer has something new," Zachrich says.

Expanded programs on conservation practices will be on display in the Gwynne Conservation Area, and OSU Central will feature demonstrations and displays from OSU colleges and departments.

New this year to FSR, attendees can visit with Ohio State University researchers and Extension educators for information on beef quality assurance. Vendors will also be available to highlight the latest livestock handling equipment.

To learn about commercial hops and barley production, there's a special seminar Sept. 18 at 11 a.m. in the Small Farms Center tent.

Other farm practices will also be explored. "We have new methods for weed control," Zachrich says. "One new exhibitor is showing an organic method and electrifying weeds. It uses a tool bar and the display talks about how it works. Basically, the bar has a transformer on it that puts thousands of volts through it and runs just above the weeds of a soybean canopy. It kills weeds like marestail and giant ragweed."

For the 28 years, the event also acknowledges new members to the FSR Hall of Fame.

On the last day, Sept. 20, 11:30 p.m., five worthy families will be awarded Ohio Farm Family Conservation Awards at 11:30 a.m.