‘Rite of spring’ upcoming at PI Forum
PRESQUE ISLE — Spring is just around the corner, and so too is an annual rite of spring in Aroostook County: the Northern Maine Agri-Business Trade Fair. The event will once again be held at the Presque Isle Forum Saturday, April 2, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, April 3, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
For more than 30 years, the trade fair has brought growers and gardeners together to learn new agriculture techniques, try out the latest and greatest technology and tools, and has served as a cabin fever reliever for thousands looking forward to warmer days spent working and playing in the sun and soil.
“I’m not certain spring wouldn’t arrive without the Trade Fair, but the Agri-Business Trade Fair is a sure sign that winter’s icy grip is loosening,” joked Tim Goff, executive director of the Fort Fairfield Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the show each year. “The Trade Fair is a wonderful County tradition and an incredible opportunity for our exhibitors to showcase their products and services to thousands of potential customers in a relaxed environment.
That, he said, speaks to the real reason the show draws such amazing crowds with so many repeat customers. “It is because we have developed a show which maximizes the ability of folks to do some comparison shopping all in one stop, to kick the tires and meet with business owners, and often even the manufacturers, to get their questions answered,” he continued. “Many seeds have been planted on the floor of the Forum that have blossomed into relationships between vendors and customers that have benefited folks from throughout northern Maine and New Brunswick.”
Goff added there is also tremendous diversity among the products and services showcased. “There are a lot of farm, field and forest implements, and plenty of power equipment for work and play on display, but there are also contractors and craftsmen — including a large display from our Amish friends and neighbors.”
In addition, the show will feature industrial suppliers, feed and livestock providers, lawn and snow equipment dealers, financial services, government agencies, non-profit organizations and more.
New additions to this 36th anniversary celebration include forestry equipment dealer Frank Martin and Sons, animal feed, garden, feed and farm goods company Aroostook Milling Supply, global industrial supplier BDI, Powers Roofing and Sheet Metal, among others.
For more information, contact Goff at 472-3802 or tgoff@forfairfield.org.
