From Roadshow to Robotics: Celebrating 50 Years of Penn State Ag Progress Days at Rock SpringsWhen Dr. Troy Ott and Dandy Lion sat down recently to reflect on the legacy of Penn State Ag Progress Days, one theme took center stage: evolution.
Over the past 125 years, Ag Progress Days has transformed from a humble traveling roadshow—designed to carry agricultural science directly to rural communities—into one of the premier outdoor agricultural expos in the United States. This year marks a landmark milestone as the event celebrates its 50th anniversary at its permanent home in Rock Springs.
While honoring a century and a quarter of heritage, this year’s expo looks squarely toward the future, showing how Pennsylvania innovators continue to drive the agricultural industry forward.
Stepping Into the Future: The All-New Robotics Village
The highlight of this year's event is the debut of the Robotics Village. Visitors can check out live, exciting demonstrations of groundbreaking automated technology invented right here in Pennsylvania.
As modern farming faces shifting market demands, these new technologies offer practical, scalable solutions designed to:
- Lower labor costs by automating repetitive field tasks.
- Reduce input waste through targeted application techniques.
- Increase overall productivity across operations of all sizes.
Featured technology includes high-precision GPS guidance, autonomous tractors, smart drones, and advanced harvesting robotics—cutting-edge tools that now make around-the-clock harvesting a reality.
Smart Solutions: Meet "Tilva" AI
Innovation at Ag Progress Days isn't limited to machinery. Be sure to visit with the Master Gardeners to learn about Tilva, Penn State Extension’s brand-new AI assistant.
Tilva pairs decades of trusted, research-backed Extension expertise with the speed of artificial intelligence. Whether you are managing commercial acreage or a home garden, Tilva delivers quick, reliable answers to your agricultural and horticultural questions in an instant.
Family-Friendly Fun & Educational Tours
Beyond the high-tech innovations, Ag Progress Days remains a welcoming, family-friendly event. With over 500 exhibitors on site, there is plenty to explore:
- Equine Exhibitions: Enjoy live horse demonstrations and equine management displays.
- Family Activities & Food: Participate in interactive games and sample delicious, locally produced food.
- Guided Educational Tours: Broaden your knowledge with specialized tours covering almost every topic imaginable—from soil conservation and forestry management to livestock production and home horticulture.
Whether you want to explore automated machinery, consult with experts on land management, or spend a fun day outdoors with family, join us at Rock Springs to celebrate 50 years of agricultural excellence!
Penn State’s Ag Progress Days, held annually during three days in August, is Pennsylvania’s largest outdoor agricultural exposition. With over 400 exhibitors from the United States and Canada, there is something for everyone to enjoy at no cost, as parking and admission are free. The show is hosted by Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences and showcases educational programs, current research, and the latest innovations in agricultural equipment and technology.
2026 Event Information
Dates
August 11, Tuesday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
August 12, Wednesday, 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
August 13, Thursday, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Location
Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center
2710 W. Pine Grove Road
Pennsylvania Furnace, PA 16865
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