9:28 a.m., April 12, 2007--Ag Day has become one of the most beloved rites of spring in Delaware, and this year's event, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday, April 28, promises to be even bigger and better than ever. UD's annual celebration of modern agriculture and natural resources--now in its 32nd year--will feature educational displays, lectures and activities, live music and entertainers and plenty of farm-fresh food.

Held on the grounds of Townsend Hall, Ag Day is a great outing for families, with such kid-friendly attractions as pony rides, sheep shearing, appearances by UD mascot YouDee and, weather permitting, dog-sledding demonstrations. Everyone, young and old, is sure to enjoy the farm tour hayrides, livestock displays and live music from popular local entertainers.

Those with a green thumb--or hoping to cultivate one--will want to visit the Fischer Greenhouse, located behind Townsend Hall, for the 15th annual UD Botanic Gardens Plant Sale. The sale offers out-of-the-ordinary perennial flowers, shrubs and trees that are sure to add interest to any lawn or garden. This year's featured plant is the lilac and a special selection of interesting and hard-to-find varieties will be available.

Most exhibits and activities will take place under large canvas tents, to shelter event-goers from the sun, or, in the event of inclement weather, rain. Organized by the Ag Day Teamwork Class, Ag Day raises funds for student clubs, Cooperative Extension Master Gardener and 4-H clubs and other Extension and university organizations.

Ag Day is free and open to public and will be held rain or shine. Free parking is available in the UD Athletic Complex lots. For more information, go to [http://ag.udel.edu/events/agday2007.htm] or call (302) 831-2508.

Photos by Jon Cox