Story by Assistant Editor Ryan Curtis, Illustration by Kevin Brown

The 2007 World Ag Expo featured a few changes from the previous 40 years of operation; a new Dairy Technology Center and online registration. These changes have added value for the dairy industry in particular.

The Dairy Technology Center gave more area to dairy industry exhibitors, which gave more exposure to more companies than before.

The online registration process helped exhibitors understand the audience better. Both additions will give the World Ag Expo more tools to improve the show in years to come.

There were nearly 100, 000 visitors, 1,600 exhibitors and 1,200 volunteers. There were more than 1,500 international visitors from 74 countries. Everyone came to see the newest technologies and connect with industry leaders.

“World Ag Expo is the only place to showcase our equipment to thousands of large operators, and this show has been a major factor for our increased sales in the West. We also make many international prospects here,” said Doug Williams, Kuhn North America, Inc.

Several companies featured new technologies, equipment models and initiatives. For example, a producer-led group launched on the first day of the expo. A new solution to manure and expensive bedding was kicked off at the show. And visitors saw a truck that runs on propane, which could save farmers money in the long run.

Show organizers recognized that some bugs still need to be worked out on the new attractions, and look forward to producing another good show next year. PD

LEFT: The large equipment also made a nice seat for one boy to rest his weary feet.
Photo by Ryan Curtis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEFT & BELOW: Visitors had a hands-on, in-depth experience at the expo. Outdoor exhibitors opened the hoods and panels of the latest equipment to explain features to anyone that was interested. Photo by Ryan Curtis.

 

ABOVE: Steuart Medical showed visitors its sonogram equipment in the Dairy Center.
Photo by Ryan Curtis.

 

LEFT: Dense fog covered the Tulare area during the first two mornings of the expo.
Photo by Ryan Curtis.