Farm Show proves broadband need
As with many events, the Pennsylvania Farm Show was forced to go virtual because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
There is a bright spot.
Online programs such as the PDA Listening Session, the Agriculture Law Forum, the Grange Broadband Panel and a host of farmer educationwebinars on best practices led by Penn State Extension attracted many who normally cannot or would not have traveled to Harrisburg to attend the PA Farm Show in person.
The success of these virtual programs also underscores the importance of universal access to high-speed Broadband as a critical need for much of rural Pennsylvania.
We are nowhere near that goal, but this year’s Virtual Farm Show showed that despite setbacks, the show will go on.
The PA Farm Show was hurt, and there is no denying it.
Kids and adults were prevented from showing their skills and animals. Entertainment also suffered with no in-person events such as the hugely popular Tractor Square Dance. Exhibitors and farm organizations took a financial hit too since much of their revenue comes directly or indirectly from the Farm Show.
Even the iconic Butter Sculpture was a COVID-19 casualty. The local economy suffered a tremendous loss of revenue and will continue to suffer as all events in the foreseeable future have been canceled or were forced to go virtual.
Everyone looks to the return of an in-person Farm Show next year. No virtual Farm Show can ever replace the crowds, the excitement, the animals and of course those milkshakes.
Still, Broadband enabled the PA Farm Show to expand its educational programming.
Wayne Campbell
President
Pennsylvania State Grange
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