Beyond the bull riding, horse racing, and the ever-popular midway, emphasis will be put on agricultural education at this year’s Maritime Fall Fair.
“It’s an important time to learn more about the agricultural industry in Nova Scotia,” said Grant MacDonald, general manager of major events with Trade Centre Limited, at a press conference yesterday at Exhibition Park.
“And this is an important platform for us to be able to do that … this year’s fair, as it always is, is about bringing agricultural awareness to an urban audience.”
MacDonald said the fair, in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, will look to highlight local produce.
“We want to make sure that Nova Scotians clearly understand … the importance of the agricultural industry here in Nova Scotia,” he said.
Agricultural Minister John MacDonnell said not only is it important for Nova Scotians to buy local, but to ensure that farmers are adequately compensated.
“Seeing that farmers get the price they need for what they produce is a big part of it,” he said. “They have to make a living if we’re going to have sustainability in agriculture.”
MacDonnell also showed his commitment to agricultural education, giving collected media a detailed lesson in raising sheep. Together with one of his constituents’ sheep, Coffee, he outlined the various characteristics judges look for in competitions.
Afterwards, MacDonald thanked the minister, noting that he now knew more about sheep than ever before.
The fair, which runs from today through Monday at Exhibition Park, will feature new events, such as the Extreme Rodeo Championship Series and the LIVERight Cup show jumping competition, sponsored by the Canadian Liver Foundation.
Old favourites, such as a dog show, petting zoo, midway attractions, and livestock competitions will also be taking place throughout the Thanksgiving Day weekend.
