“We are pleased that the New York Farm Show is expanding this year to accommodate the tens of thousands of visitors expected to attend at the New York State Fairgrounds,” Governor Cuomo said. “Each year, the show provides a great platform for farmers to see the latest innovations in agriculture, while giving exhibitors the opportunity to grow and enhance their business operations. I encourage New Yorkers to visit this one-of-a-kind show to support and learn more about New York’s thriving agricultural sector.”

Up to 30,000 visitors are expected at the New York Farm Show, which opens at 8:30 a.m. each day and runs until 4 p.m. Admission is $5. Parking is free and shuttle buses will be available. More information is available at www.newyorkfarmshow.com. The show is co-sponsored by the Northeast Equipment Dealers Association and American Agriculturalist.

The Governor’s increase in capital project funding for the Fairgrounds in 2013 made it possible to renovate the Science and Industry Building for use at major exhibitions such as the New York Farm Show.

“The expansion into the Science and Industry Building this year will allow us to offer more new and exciting products, services, and displays,” said Scott Grigor, show manager. “We’ve wanted more space and we’re happy that the state has come through for us and for farmers across New York.”

A number of seminars will take place throughout the three day event, including topics covering dairy robotonomics, beef production, forestry and crop insurance.

The show will also feature more than 400 exhibitors, covering equipment, services, products, and information for the farming industry, including a variety of agricultural programs; alternative energy initiatives; animal health products; barn, feed, orchard, watering and dairy equipment; combines; engines and motors; financial services for farmers; silos and silage; and tractors.

The Robert Watson Memorial Toy Auction will take place at 5 p.m. Saturday in the Empire Room at the Art & Home Center. Nearly 200 farm toys will be auctioned off, with the proceeds supporting the New York FFA. Visitors can also view and buy farm toys during the show.

Acting State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “By design, the State Fairgrounds helps to increase upstate tourism and promote New York agriculture, and with the New York Farm Show we are truly getting the best of both worlds. New York agriculture will be fully on display and I look forward to seeing this Show for myself this coming weekend.”

The Great New York State Fair, operated by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, runs from August 21 – September 1, 2014. The Fair’s mission is to showcase the best of New York agriculture while providing top-quality entertainment.

In addition to the annual New York State Fair, the Fairgrounds host dozens of agricultural events throughout the year, including some of the Northeast’s most prestigious horse and livestock shows.

The home of the Great New York State Fair is a 375-acre exhibit and entertainment complex that operates all year. A year-round schedule of events is available on the Fair’s website. Find The Great New York State Fair on Facebook, follow @NYSFair on Twitter, and enjoy photos from the Fair at Flickr.com/photos/NYSFair. Also, New Yorkers are invited to send their ideas for the Great New York State Fair at statefairideas@agriculture.ny.gov.

Media Contacts:
Joe Morrissey
Public Information Officer
NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets
518-457-0752

Dave Bullard
Public Relations
New York State Fair
315-487-7711 x 1377