Petting an alpaca, meeting a dairy princess and identifying unusual products that contain wood are just a few of the things visitors to the 2008 Pennsylvania Farm Show can do at 11 hands-on learning stations designed to teach visitors about agriculture, Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff said this week.

"The Farm Show is an excellent way for both children and adults to learn more about Pennsylvania agriculture and how it affects our daily lives," Secretary Wolff said. "The learning stations will help visitors explore different aspects of agriculture through memorable activities including live animals and games."

The 11 educational sites will be marked with the "Farm Show Farmer" learning station icon. The learning stations can also be found on the map in the souvenir booklet, which can be purchased at the show.

Visitors will also have access to educational opportunities regarding wind, solar, biogas, biofuels and biomass energy harvested here in the Commonwealth. Visit the Expo Hall to find the latest in this innovative technology.

PSECU announced this week they are a primary sponsor of the Pennsylvania Energy Independence Exhibit at the 2008 Farm Show.

"We are pleased to have the opportunity to sponsor this event," notes Greg Smith, President of PSECU. "The exhibit helps visitors understand the critical fuel-related issues we are facing and potential answers. While on the surface, an observer may think it does not relate to finances, it really does. The consumer bears the burden of the increased costs. We look to educate consumers and hope that education translates into savings. That's part of our mission as a credit union."

Another highlight of the Farm Show is the 900 pound sculpture made entirely of butter. After the Farm Show, consistent with Gov. Rendell’s Energy Independence Plan, the butter will again this year be turned into biofuel.

The Pennsylvania Farm Show is the largest indoor agricultural event in the nation, featuring nearly 8,000 animals, 10,000 competitive exhibits and 270 commercial exhibitors. The eight-day show is Jan. 5-12, at the Farm Show Complex & Expo Center. Admission is free and parking is $5.

For more information, including a complete list of the 11 learning stations, visit the Pennsylvania Farm Show website.

NewsClip: Farm Show Energy Boost

1/4/2008