The 31st annual Horse Progress Days event will take place on July 4-5 at the Alvin Yoder Jr. Farm in Clare County, Michigan, marking its third visit to the area. This highly anticipated gathering, organized by Amish experts and hosted by the Colonville Amish community, showcases sustainable agriculture and horse-drawn farming innovations. Attendees can experience hands-on demonstrations of traditional equipment like manure spreaders, plows, and a twelve-horse four-bottom plow, alongside seminars on topics ranging from soil health and livestock care to cheese making and small-scale beekeeping. The event also features horse training, sheep herding, oxen tilling, and logging demonstrations, emphasizing practical skills rooted in Amish farming traditions that offer resilience against modern technological disruptions.
Beyond farming techniques, Horse Progress Days highlights the importance of sustainable food production through its expanded Produce Section, which draws growers and enthusiasts eager to learn about soil management, pest control, and greenhouse cultivation. The event fosters community collaboration and education, providing valuable insights for both novice and experienced farmers. With an entry fee of $15 and optional seminar seating for $100, visitors can also enjoy home-cooked meals, a large artisan bazaar, and a benefit auction supporting future events and local projects. This celebration of traditional agriculture serves as a counterpoint to the challenges posed by industrial food systems and advancing AI, promoting self-reliance, sustainability, and hope for the future.
