Early Monday morning commuters in Regina may have been surprised to see a John Deere combine heading north on Albert Street.
Or maybe they’re accustomed to seeing farm equipment on the streets at this time of year.
Canada’s Farm Show is celebrating its 45th year and kicked it off with an event in front of a John Deere X9 from South Country Equipment parked at the Saskatchewan Legislative Building.
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South Country spokesperson Cari Bode said the $1 million combine began its trek at 4:30 a.m. to avoid causing traffic problems.
Visitors to this year’s show are faced with numerous construction detours.
Regina Exhibition Association Ltd. president Tim Reid said organizers expect more than 20,000 visitors. This will include international guests from more than 70 countries.
“We are the heartland of agriculture. We are the heartland of manufacturing,” he said.
About $100 million worth of international sales are expected to occur as a result of the show, which runs Tuesday through Thursday.
Saskatchewan agriculture minister David Marit said the province can be proud to showcase the innovation and technology in the agriculture sector.
“When you look at the sustainability of agriculture around the world, Saskatchewan is leading the way,” he said.
He noted that ag equipment exports are up about 150 percent in the last five years.
Regina mayor Sandra Masters said the city was thrilled to welcome visitors to the show. She said the greater Regina area plays a vital role in producing safe nutritious food.
REAL has been operating as an agriculture society for 140 years.
Three innovation awards were recognized on opening day.
Accusampler UltraMT from VeriGrain and Binhalo from Adaptive Agriculture Solutions Inc. were selected in the new technology category. In new service, Inputs Pro from Kristen Timmerman was recognized.
Contact karen.brierre@producer.com
