The SARDA Ag Research Board of Directors recently made the hard decision to cancel the Trade Show planned for March 2021. Over the last 35 years that SARDA has hosted the Trade Show, it has become one of SARDA’s prominent extension events and fundraising opportunities. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions and facilities’ limitations, the Board decided that we could not hold a successful event and protect exhibitors and visitors. The Smoky Ag Research Agricultural Trade Show will continue in March 2023.
The very first Trade Show in the region was organized by several agri-businessmen in 1984, who envisioned an event that would provide an opportunity for agriculture companies to display new equipment, chemicals, fertilizers, seed, and technology directly to the farming community. The local Chamber of Commerce organized the Trade Show in 1985. In 1986, the Smoky Applied Research and Demonstration Association (SARDA) was incorporated, and the association agreed to take over the organization of the event. The 1986 and 1987 Trade Shows were both organized by SARDA staff and Directors. Planning and presenting an annual Trade Show proved to be overwhelming for the small organization and community. In 1987, The Trade Show became a biennial event organized by SARDA Ag Research.
The Smoky River Agricultural Trade Show fits well with SARDA Ag Research’s mission and goals. It provides an opportunity for farmers to update themselves on new products, technology, and equipment. The Trade Show is a perfect forum for farmers and industry to connect and work together. The show’s profits support specialized research equipment purchases and applied agricultural research to better the farming industry. The communities benefit from the opportunity to promote and support businesses and local programs. It is not unusual for community groups to benefit from a free corner to sell raffle tickets or memberships.
The Trade Show has grown in popularity and today has a reputation as a first-class event. Exhibitors and companies covet the opportunity to participate in the event. SARDA Ag Research staff and Board assist and support exhibitors to the best of their ability. Also, exhibitors benefit from an exhibitor appreciation night that entails a light supper and a chance to network with co-exhibitors and the hosts. The majority of the visitors to the Trade Show have close ties to the agricultural industry and therefore appreciate the exhibits in the show. Outside, there is a large display of new equipment, the machines farmers dream of and non-farmers marvel at.
Exhibitors from throughout North America and visitors from throughout the Peace Region support and participate in the show. The show has grown to include 170+ exhibits, seminars, a Family Farm Safety day, an Exhibitor Appreciation event, and two free pancake breakfasts. The event is open and free to all attendees allowing the community to come and go as they please. Many of the visitors attend all three days. As an added draw, for a nominal fee, a Farmer Appreciation Evening, featuring supper and professional entertainment is hosted and supported by SARDA Ag Research and Agricultural Businesses. The whole community is involved and afforded the opportunity to promote their businesses and meet with the public.
The 2021 Trade Show would have been the 21st event held in the Smoky River region, and it is the first Trade Show ever to be canceled. The next SARDA Ag Research Agricultural Trade Show is planned for March 2023. All potential exhibitors are encouraged to subscribe to www.sarda.ca/trade-show for the latest news and notices for this upcoming event. If you have questions, call 780-837-2900 or visit www.sarda.ca .