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One of this year’s ‘must see’ attractions at the Ohio State Fair, July 26 to Aug. 6, will be the highly interactive Land & Living exhibit featuring agriculture education activities the whole family can enjoy. Visitors to the Nationwide Donahey Agriculture & Horticulture building will get in-depth, hands-on lessons about farming, food and high-tech agriculture.

Visitors to the exhibit will learn about how animals are cared for on the farm. They also will see how science and technology are helping farmers produce safe food while enhancing environmental resources, how scientists are researching solutions to the biggest food and farming challenges and how young people can have careers in agriculture. Ohio State University’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences will have a major presence at the building this year, where research and careers in agriculture will be featured. 

The sow birthing center, brought to the fair by the Ohio Pork Council, is a popular stop in the building. There, visitors can see baby piglets and learn more about animal care on the farm. 

In addition, Land & Living activities include planting crops in a tractor simulator, using drones in agriculture, shopping in an interactive grocery store, and families can record their state fair memories with a free photograph.

“All of these activities will have fairgoers getting as close as they can to agriculture without stepping foot on a farm,” said Julie Shulll, director of events with Ohio Farm Bureau. “We hope visitors leave with a better understanding of how agriculture plays an important role in our everyday lives.”

Land & Living is made possible through the support of Ohio Farm Bureau, Nationwide, Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences, Ohio Corn & Wheat, Ohio Soybean Council, Ohio Sheep and Wool Program, Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association, American Dairy Association Mideast, Ohio Pork Council and Ohio Poultry Association.

Featured exhibitors include Ohio Pork Council, Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association, Ohio 4-H, Ohio Christmas Tree Association, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Ohio Ag Net and Ohio’s Country Journal, and Central State University among others. The Land & Living exhibit is located east of Kiddieland and across from the south entrance to the Midway. All exhibits in the building are free.

This is a news release for use by journalists. Questions should be directed to Ty Higgins, 614-246-8231 or [email protected].