By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com
It is only day three of the International Plowing Match (IPM) and Rural Expo, held in Simcoe County, and the event is already showing signs of success.
The IPM welcomed visitors on Tuesday for the opening ceremonies where the premier, members of provincial parliament and area politicians gathered to offer remarks and participate in VIP plowing.
(Photo: Premier Kathleen Wynne addressing the crowd at the IPM on Tuesday, September 16)
The first day of the plowing match is the only day that the Ontario Legislature closes, allowing party leaders and MPPs to participate in IPM festivities. All three party leaders were in attendance, with caucus members participating in the parade and each party showing off their partisan colours on three separate floats. Jennifer Jones was the parade marshal and also spoke about her experience curling in the Olympics.
On day two of the IPM, attendees enjoyed good weather. Some of the main attractions included the Canadian Cowgirls, the Dancing Tractors, and the Martels Rock and Roll show. According to IPM organizers, the street of Tented City was crowded with visitors enjoying a variety of vendors, displays and demonstrations.
New features this year include the Tasty, Fresh, Locally Grown Tent - which showcase the diversity of locally grown food, while the Future Farming Tent covers more of the production aspect of agriculture - examining subjects such as future crop choices to succession planning.
The biggest highlight for day three of the IPM is a special visit from Liberal Party of Canada Leader Justin Trudeau, accompanied by Liberal agriculture critic Mark Eyking and their provincial colleague, Jeff Leal, who serves as minister of agriculture for Ontario.
(Photo: IPM volunteers welcoming visitors to Simcoe County)
(Photo: Antique machinery on display at the IPM).