When the 36th edition of the Indiana-Illinois Farm and Outdoor Power Equipment Show moves Dec. 16-18 into the West Pavilion of the Indiana State Fairgrounds, it will give area farmers the opportunity to see everything needed on the farm for the next planting and harvesting. 

The show will feature more than 350 companies displaying everything that is new: long line from John Deere, Case and Caterpillar dealers, short line, seeds, supplies, chemicals, livestock equipment, grain handing, storage, buildings, replacement parts and the new technology needed for profits from computer software to GPS systems. 

There also will be outdoor power equipment, giving farmers a chance to see some of the newest trends in ag firsthand. 

“All of our exhibit space is sold out,” said Richard Sherman, show manager. “The full 170,000 square feet, with some companies exhibiting for the first time, like Branham Equipment, McBurney Livestock Equipment, Calibrated Power Solutions, RPM Machinery, Copperhead Ag and MJK Purveyors. Some will expand from smaller locations, such as Pomp’s Tire and SR Marketing, and others who have been here every year we have done the show.” 

The show will feature a free seminar series coordinated by Gary Truitt of Hoosier Ag Today, which will focus on two of the hottest topics today — drones and the new farm bill programs. Experts in these areas will present practical information that will give farmers vital help in navigating through what could be tough financial years ahead. 

On Dec. 16, a program on the use of drones in agriculture will focus on the latest technology and legal issues involved. 

On Dec. 17, Jim Mintert of Purdue University will walk farmers through their choices under the new farm bill. Following, Chris Hurt of Purdue will give his annual outlook for 2015. 

On Dec. 18, the markets will take center stage with market analysts from Chicago and Indiana offering strategies to help farmers lock in good prices while minimizing their risk. 

All seminars begin at 11 a.m. on the west side of the building behind the familiar red curtain. 

Show hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 16 and 17 and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 18. 

 Admission to the show is free, but it costs $5 per vehicle to park on the fairgrounds.