Colusa Farm Show kicks off today
Event features latest in farming techniques, equipment
It’s a learning experience, a shopping trip and a social event all rolled into one.
Over 25,000 people from around the world are expected to attend the 54th annual Colusa Farm Show this year – running today through Thursday.
For more than five decades, the Colusa Farm Show has allowed attendees the chance to get acquainted with the latest in modern farming techniques and equipment.
“Compared to last year, there will be a lot of new stuff,” said Joe Steidlmayor, Farm Show Committee president. “Technology is developing so fast, we have new and improved everything each year.”
Over 350 exhibitors will be featured in the numerous exhibit buildings, livestock pavilions and lawn space at the Colusa County Fairgrounds, located at 1303 10th Street in Colusa.
Steidlmayor said, planning for the farm show has been running smoothly.
Parking continues to be the biggest issue.
“People can park in the parking lot at the fairgrounds and there is street parking available on the streets near the fairgrounds,” Steidlmayor said. “The only place that people should not park is on Eighth Street on the side of the fairgrounds. They will be towing cars from that area.”
Many local businesses have been participating for a number of years.
Orchard Machinery Corporation was one out of a dozen businesses featured at the first farm show in Colusa.
“We were one of the original ones and we have been every year since,” said Don Mayo, president of Orchard Machinery.
Each year, Orchard Machinery has been showcasing the latest in equipment in the orchard supply market. This year’s new technologies will include telecommunications, robotics and autonomous vehicles, Mayo said.
California Industrial Rubber has had a booth at the farm show for more than 30 years.
“It is a great way to meet the people and show them how we can help them out on different products,” said Charlie Bird, assistant manager. “We learn what customers need and what they are looking for to help their business.”
The farm show also allows buyers to see equipment first hand before deciding on a purchase.
“Potential customers are able to compare equipment and see how much products have been changing,” said Henry Miller Jr., owner of Valley Truck and Tractor Company, another company that has been featured at every farm show held in Colusa.
Agriculturists aren’t the only ones interested in the show. Schools bus in students to give them the first hand knowledge of agriculture and equipment, Miller said.
All of these exhibitors agreed that the farm show is a great place to talk to people.
“You always run into people
While no official decisions have been made at this time, board members feel they are moving in the right direction.
“Our next meeting is Feb. 11 and hopefully most of them will be back,” Single said. “We hope the February meeting will fill out our board of directors.”
Colusa Farm Show
Doors open daily, today through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission and parking for the event will be free. For more information, call the Colusa County Fairgrounds at 458-2641 or visit www.colusafairgrounds.com/farm-show.
you have not seen for a long time and do a little catching up,” Bird said.
“I have been going for many years and I personally enjoy the opportunity to talk to all of the old and new customers,” Miller said.
“This is definitely a smaller, more direct show,” Mayo said. “It really supports local industry.”