International Plowing Match going ahead this fall

KAWARTHA LAKES – The International Plowing Match (IPM) and Rural Expo will be going ahead as planned here this fall.

"While continuing to honour and respect the health situation and health regulations caused by COVID-19, the organizers will be simultaneously planning both the traditional IPM and a re-envisioned IPM," states a Feb. 10 press release from the Guelph-based Ontario Plowmen’s Association (OPA).

Directors and staff of the association say volunteers look forward to welcoming visitors to Kawartha Lakes Oct. 13 to 16.

The event will be hosted at the Lindsay Fairgrounds and on neighbouring farms.

"The traditional IPM features, such as the BMO Plowing Competition, the Hydro One Education and the Queen of the Furrow Competition presented by Ontario Mutuals, may look a little different this year but you can be assured they will be just as exciting and memorable," officials stated.

They noted alternate designs for the tented city and RV park are being developed to ensure exhibitors, volunteers and visitors are protected by additional health protocols.

“Our provincial and local volunteers will be ramping up their committee planning with conference calls and video calls," said Don Priest, vice-president of the OPA.

"And, we really look forward to the in-person committee and community meetings that we will be held just as soon as the provincial health situation allows."

For additional plans and progress visit the OPA website.