PA Forage and Grassland Council to host annual Hay Show

Hay Show

Hay producers from across the Commonwealth are invited to showcase the quality of their forage at the 2026 Pennsylvania Hay Show, held during Ag Progress Days on August 11–13 in Rock Springs, Pennsylvania. Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Forage and Grassland Council (PFGC), the Hay Show recognizes outstanding forage production while providing every participant with a professional forage quality analysis.

The competition includes a wide variety of classes for alfalfa, grass, clover, and mixed hays, with separate divisions for field-cured hay and mechanically dried or preservative-treated hay. 

Entries are open to hay grown in Pennsylvania during the 2026 season. PFGC members may enter an unlimited number of samples at no cost, while non-members pay a $12 entry fee per sample. Samples must be submitted by 12:00 noon on Tuesday, August 11.

Premiums will be awarded to the top five entries in each class, with first-place winners receiving $20, a ribbon, and a forage analysis. All exhibitors receive a forage analysis for each sample entered, making participation a valuable opportunity to evaluate forage quality and compare it with that of other producers across the state.

Complete rules, entry forms, and class descriptions are available in the Hay Show brochure. Producers are encouraged to participate and help celebrate the quality and diversity of Pennsylvania-grown forage. Email PAForageGrassland@gmail.com for more information. 

Picnic and Research Tour

The Pennsylvania Forage and Grassland Council (PFGC) invites members, friends, and families to the 2026 Annual Summer Picnic and Forage Research Tour on Wednesday, August 12, at the Penn State Agronomy Research Farm during Ag Progress Days.

The evening begins with appetizers at 4:30 p.m., followed by a wagon tour of the Penn State forage research plots at 5:00 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about current forage research while enjoying time with fellow producers, industry professionals, and forage enthusiasts. Dinner will be served at approximately 6:00 p.m. and will feature barbecue, salads, potatoes, fresh vegetables, and other favorites.

The event is open to everyone and is a great opportunity for first-time visitors to experience both the research farm and one of PFGC's most popular annual gatherings. Registration is $20 for adults, $10 for children ages 4–10, and free for children under 4.

To help with meal planning, attendees are encouraged to register by August 6 or RSVP by August 5 if paying at the door. Whether you're interested in learning more about forage research or simply enjoying an evening with the forage community, the PFGC Summer Picnic is an event you won't want to miss.

For more information, review the Picnic Registration form or email PAForageGrassland@gmail.com for more information. 

Want to know more about the Forage and Grassland Council? 

The American Forage and Grassland Council (AFGC) continues to serve as the national voice for forage and grassland agriculture, bringing together producers, educators, researchers, students, and industry professionals to advance the profitable and sustainable use of forages. With more than 2,500 members and 22 affiliated state councils, AFGC provides a strong network dedicated to improving forage production, grazing management, and grassland stewardship across the United States.

Membership in the American Forage and Grassland Council offers access to valuable resources and professional development opportunities, including industry publications, member newsletters, an online membership directory, reduced conference registration fees, certification programs, and networking opportunities with forage professionals from across the country. Members also support educational programs, youth engagement activities, forage research, and outreach efforts that strengthen the entire forage industry.

For Pennsylvania producers and agricultural professionals, membership in the Pennsylvania Forage and Grassland Council automatically includes membership in AFGC, providing both state and national benefits. Together, these organizations work to promote the production and utilization of quality forages while connecting members with the latest research, educational programs, and industry developments.

Whether you are a producer looking to improve forage management, an educator seeking professional connections, or a student exploring career opportunities, AFGC membership is an investment in both your operation and the future of forage agriculture.