51st Annual Hermiston Farm Fair
December 4 and 5, 2024
The 51st Hermiston Farm Fair was a complete success. As one of the most significant regional gatherings, the two-day event featured 52 outstanding continuing-education courses led by excellent speakers from Oregon State University, Washington State University, University of Idaho, Utah State University, Pennsylvania State University, USDA-ARS, and the Oregon Wheat Commission. With 350 participants, the event provided dozens of pesticide credit hours applicable in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho and nearly 30 CCA credits, benefiting approximately 250 attendees who require continuing education.
This event served as an outstanding platform for scientists to engage directly with agricultural practitioners, gaining valuable insights into their needs and contributing to developing sustainable strategies to address growers' concerns. Notably, nearly 25% of the speakers were junior faculty members, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate students. The event provided these early-career professionals with a unique opportunity to learn from growers and crop consultants, deepen their understanding of the challenges faced in agricultural practices, and enhance their future research and extension initiatives.
The Farm Fair covered a broad spectrum of crops, including potatoes, onions, wheat, grass seeds, alfalfa, sweet potatoes, dry beans, hemp, and blueberries, enriching the experience for growers, consultants, researchers, and other attendees. Topics included disease management, weed management, insect management, nutrient management, water management, crop breeding, postharvest practices, AI technology, soil health, and cover crops. The diversity of subjects made the 51st Hermiston Farm Fair a valuable and comprehensive agricultural event, highlighting its pivotal role in supporting the agricultural communities.
