Canada’s Farm Progress Show wrapped up three soggy days June 20 with strong domestic and international attendance.
Final figures weren’t available, but opening day saw a 20 percent increase year over year and the second day was also up slightly year over year.
The rain kept farmers off their fields and able to attend the show, while notable guests included Canada’s ambassadors to Iraq, Jordan and Kazakhstan, and a strong German contingent.
The international component has always been important to the show’s success. Many deals are made based on meetings during the three-day show.
Saskatchewan agriculture minister Lyle Stewart kicked off the event with the announcement of a new five-year funding agreement.
The province will contribute $25,000 each year, up from $20,000 in the previous agreement, to help the show expand and attract more visitors.
“I think the sales numbers compared to the relatively modest help that we give the show really speaks for itself,” Stewart said.
The show generates more than $500 million in annual sales of farm machinery and products.
