The latest research efforts in agriculture and horticulture will be highlighted during the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Field Day 2002 on July 18 at the Research and Education Center in Princeton.

The biennial field day will include something for farmers, their spouses and youth in tours, displays, demonstrations and activities. Approximately 2,000 people are expected to attend.

"We sincerely hope that everyone can attend one of western Kentucky's premier agricultural events," said Sam McNeill, the 2002 field day chairman. "We want to emphasize that we have plenty of educational opportunities and activities for everyone who attends."

There will be 15 tours at the field day focusing on various agricultural enterprises, including: beef; forage; soybean and wheat; corn pest management; corn production; weed management in grain crops; tobacco; nutrient management; orchard/vineyard; ornamentals/ small fruits; agricultural engineering; precision agriculture; poultry; and aquaculture. One tour will provide visitors with an overview of activities at the Research and Education Center.

A new tour this year will be on vegetable crops. Vegetable production has increased in recent years and there are two cooperatives in the western Kentucky area.

There are also several ongoing events including incredible insects which includes displays of exotic and important agricultural insects. The IPM butterfly/herb garden and a display of older model tractors and equipment are also available for viewing at your leisure.

"We've got about 25 things for young people to see and do," said Tommy Harrison, Muhlenberg County Extension agent for 4-H/Youth Development and youth activities coordinator. "There are a lot of hands-on activities including a live animal display where they will learn about horse safety and the new 4-H goat project."

In addition, youths will be able to participate in rocket science, ATV safety, lawn tractor driving, skillathons and other activities.

Most of the Family and Consumer Science activities will be held in air-conditioned comfort in the meeting area of the main UKREC office building and will include two taste testing exhibits, five health related presentations, and 18 exhibits on child care, nutrition, gardening, textiles, and environmental issues.

This year, the number of events is increased from past years and include the two taste testings and blood pressure checks, said Nancy Jones, Limited Resource Coordinator and coordinator of Family and Consumer Science events for field day. Also, new this year are four environmental exhibits sponsored by the Pennyrile Area Homemakers Association.

"We have topics of interest for everyone from young parents to seniors," she said.

Nearly 40 exhibitors from the College of Agriculture, agricultural associations and organizations will be inside the main tent throughout the day. Tours will begin from the main tent as well.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. with tours beginning at 8:30 a.m. and continuing through 3 p.m. Lunch is available at the field day from various commodity groups. Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) credits have been approved for nine tours.

The UK Research and Education Center is on Kentucky 91 South, 1½ miles southeast of the Caldwell County Courthouse in Princeton.