The inaugural UF/IFAS Extension Peanut Harvest Trade Show and Field Demonstrations took place on August 21^st at the North Florida Research and Education Center in Live Oak, Florida. The event provided a review of techniques to improve harvest efficiency focused on peanut plant inverting, harvesting equipment adjustments, and maturity evaluation. Various UF/IFAS Scientists and Extension faculty were present to facilitate the program. Representatives from the manufacturing companies KMC, Amadas, and Colombo were also present to offer tips on getting the most benefit and precision from their equipment. During the demonstration portion of the event, these companies were able to educate producers by showcasing various features of the equipment which will help them enhance yield and reduce waste at harvest.

Other event highlights included a core and private pesticide license training with CEUs for pesticide handlers, and a trade show of vendors. The trade show component had 22 vendor participants and offered various giveaways and door prizes. The Florida Peanut Federation sponsored a barbeque supper for the attendees. Local FFA and 4-H youth passed out boiled peanuts and Elmhurst’s new peanut milk product for sampling. Overall, this was a successful and popular first-time event with approximately 170 attendees and vendors present from across the North Florida region. For more information on upcoming UF/IFAS Extension program opportunities, contact your local extension office for a calendar of events.

UF/IFAS Extension is an Equal Opportunity Institution

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