Delaware Ag Week opens Jan. 13, runs through the 16th

HARRINGTON — Delaware producers will head to Harrington to attend this year’s Delaware Ag Week at the Delaware State Fairgrounds from January 13 – 16. Initially created as a one-stop shop for farmers, the Ag Week has become a 20-year tradition for farmers across Delmarva to learn about the latest research, earning continuing education credits, and network with agribusinesses.

The four-day event offers sessions featuring agronomy, animal science, beekeeping, fruits and vegetables, and woodland management. Attendees can earn continuing education credits for nutrient management, pest management, and Certified Crop Advising for Delaware and Maryland.

Secretary of Agriculture Michael T. Scuse said more than 20 years ago, producers would come out for classes offered by Extension multiple times a week over several weeks, and attending and keeping up with farm work became a challenge. They wanted to offer farmers a way to learn about new technologies and enhance best practices to help improve yields and increase farm income over a shorter period.

“Holding Delaware Ag Week in January, when farmers have some downtime, was the perfect solution to the problem,” said Secretary Scuse.

Those looking to attend the event can find the focus of each day, session topics, speakers, and locations online at https://sites.udel.edu/delawareagweek. While registration is not required for the overall event, specific sessions require pre-registration, as specified online, to ensure adequate preparation for the caterers.

Anyone attending poultry sessions during Delaware Ag Week should follow strict biosecurity protocols. All attendees are asked to wear clothing or footwear that has not been in or around poultry or wild birds. Footbaths will be available throughout the week, and shoe covers will also be available during poultry sessions. Hand sanitizer and Lysol will also be available. These additional steps are being taken to help minimize risk as there is an elevated level of virus in the environment.

This event is brought to you by the Delaware Department of Agriculture, the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension, and the Delaware State University Cooperative Extension.