Maine Agricultural Trades Show Continues 79th Year

Producers gather to honor Maine’s centuries-old tradition of innovation and to focus on strategies to build a strong future for farming in our state

AUGUSTA - The Maine Agricultural Trades Show has been a tradition since 1941— The tradition continues January 14-16, at the Augusta Civic Center, when Maine's agricultural community convenes to celebrate farming, network and plan ahead in Maine agriculture. Organized and hosted by the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF), the show provides access to resources that empower farmers and rural communities. More than 100 trade exhibitors and dozens of conference sessions are part of this show. The show is free and open to the public and is an excellent opportunity for all ages. The complete itinerary is available online at: https://maine.gov/dacf/agtradesshow.

“Our staff have worked very hard to ensure that this will be a great show this year for all who

attend,” said Amanda Beal, Commissioner, DACF. “And, as always, the Agricultural Trades Show presents an opportunity like no other to celebrate the achievements of our farming families, to discuss challenges and provide numerous opportunities to learn about resources available to support farmers as they adapt to changes in the agricultural sector, and to bring together many businesses and organizations that are working to build a strong future for farming in our state.”

There are more than 100 unique conference sessions at this year’s show and three full days of annual meetings, workshops, and professional development opportunities.

“Our team has organized an outstanding experience," said Nancy McBrady, Director, Bureau of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources. "This is the place to be for industry networking and to learn from agricultural experts and Bureau staff, who will be widely available throughout the show in the first floor Resource Room."

2020 is Maine’s Bicentennial and throughout the show, attendees will be reminded of the state's heritage and history of innovation of its rural communities.

Leigh Hallett, Director, Division of Agricultural Resource Development said, "We always look forward to this annual opportunity to gather with producers of all sizes from every part of the state. This year we’re inviting the public to join us for some special activities at the show to help us share the story of Maine agriculture in this Bicentennial year and beyond.”

Highlighted Items of Interest

• Agritourism: Planning for Group Tours   
• Baskets to Pallets Workshop for Producers Scaling up to Wholesale
• Beginning Farmer Resource Network
• Resource Room: Meet the DACF Team Serving Maine Agriculture
• Food Safety Sessions for Produce Farms
• Local Food in Schools: Building Partnerships with School Nutrition Program
• Maine Farmers’ Market 2020 Convention
• Maine Made: Product Pitch and Buyer Feedback Session
• Maine Woodland Owners Forestry Forum
• Opportunities for Beginning Farmers offered at 2020 Maine Agriculture Trades Show
• Pesticide Applicator License Exam and Continuing Education
• SCORE Ag Business Mentors
• Local Producer & Grower Networking    

The complete show schedule is available at: https://maine.gov/dacf/agtradesshow.

Show HoursTuesday, January 14, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday, January 15, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, January 16, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Venue AddressAugusta Civic Center 76 Community Dr. Augusta, ME 04330

For more information about the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, go to: http://www.maine.gov/dacf