A trio of industry groups hosted federal officials for a field day of demonstrations on seed treatments, planting practices, and equipment innovations that are bringing continuous improvement to sustainable farming practices.

NEWBURG, Maryland (April 26, 2017) - A trio of industry groups hosted federal officials for a field day of demonstrations on seed treatments, planting practices, and equipment innovations that are bringing continuous improvement to sustainable farming practices.

The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) and the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) hosted more than three dozen officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Environmental Protection Agencys Office of Pesticide Programs for a series of hands-on presentations and product demonstrations.
The event offered an opportunity for producers and manufacturers to demonstrate cutting-edge technologies in each respective industry, and how these innovations have made modern agriculture more efficient and sustainable than ever. The product demonstration day took place on the working farm of NCGA Chairman Chip Bowling in Newburg, Maryland.
"AEM members were thrilled to join with our partners in this event to showcase how manufacturers and private industry have invested in transforming planters and farm equipment more broadly," said AEM Senior Director Nick Tindall. "This event should serve as a model for how industry groups can work with environmental stakeholders and federal agencies to build understanding and cooperation on issues that affect agricultural stakeholders."
"As an industry, we are committed to the goal of developing better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life," said ASTA President & CEO Andrew W. LaVigne. "Todays event was a tremendous opportunity to showcase the critical role of innovation and stewardship in every step of bringing quality, safe, and nutritious products to market."
"Farmers care deeply about keeping Americas land, water, and air safe for our families, our neighbors, and our communities. The National Corn Growers Association is committed to farming sustainably and protecting those resources for future generations," said NCGA Chairman Chip Bowling. "We are excited for the opportunity to engage with regulators and to showcase advancements in farming practices that have improved the environmental profile of farming while increasing yields. Technology is key to improving the sustainability of farming. It is important that those who regulate this technology understand how these tools are used by farmers on the ground."
The 2017 demo day builds off the successful demonstration of spray drift technology for the EPA in 2016. The groups who put on this years event will release a video capturing the event in the near future.
About ASTA
Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) represents over 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding and related industries in North America. ASTA is an effective voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. ASTAs broad membership offers varieties from alfalfa to zucchini and all production types including conventional, organic and biotech. We promote the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.
About AEM
AEM is the North American-based international trade group representing more than 950 companies and more than 200 product lines in the agriculture, construction, forestry, mining and utility sectors worldwide.
About NCGA
Founded in 1957, the National Corn Growers Association represents more than 40,000 dues-paying corn farmers nationwide and the interests of more than 300,000 growers who contribute through corn checkoff programs in their states. NCGA and its 49 affiliated state organizations work together to create and increase opportunities for corn growers.