More than 250 companies from around the United States will be exhibiting their products on the fairgrounds at Salina’s Bicentennial Center and Saline County Livestock & Expo Center March 26-28 at the Mid America Farm Expo. More than 300 exhibits will be on display showing the latest in farm technology, machinery, equipment and supplies.

The Expo began 48 years as a project of the Agriculture Committee of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce. It was named the Salina Materials Handling Show, and had 44 exhibits on display on the Saline County Fairgrounds, now called the Saline County Livestock and Expo Center. With the construction of the Bicentennial Center directly across from the Expo Center, the Farm Expo expanded and is now one of the largest spring farm shows in the Midwest. It attracts approximately 10,000 persons over the three days.

The Expo is headquartered in the Bicentennial Center, with additional displays in Agricultural Hall, and Exhibition Barn, at the Saline County Livestock & Expo Center. In addition, outside exhibits are located in front of Ag Hall and on the Bicentennial Center west parking lot.

Special features of the Expo, in addition to the variety of farm equipment displays, will include seminars on Nitrogen Management, Agriculture Law and Federal Farm Legislation, Cattle Handling, and a special presentation by Mitch Holthus, voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, entitled “It’s Time To Back To The Farm.” There will also be an opportunity for individuals to have their well water tested for nitrate and chloride all three days during the expo. In addition, United State First District Congressman Tim Huelskamp, will hold a town Hall meeting on Tuesday, March 26, 10:30-11:30am, in the meeting rooms above the Bicentennial Center Lobby.

“This show has grown over the years to become one of the premiere early spring farm shows in the Midwest,” stated Carl Garten, Chairman of the Chamber’s Ag Division. “Exhibits are up from last year. This is going to be one of the largest shows we have had in several years. Companies from across the United States come to exhibit their farm machinery, equipment and supplies. Millions of dollars of equipment are on display. It is one of the finest, best run Farm Expos in the country.”

There’s no charge for admission or parking. Hours are 9AM-5PM March 26, 9AM-5PM March 27 and 9AM-4PM March 28. It is sponsored by the Agriculture Division of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce