For the second year in a row, the International Plowing Match and Rural Expo has been postponed because of the pandemic.
It was scheduled to be held at the Lindsay Exhibition Grounds and neighboruing farms in October.
Organizers call it 'heart-wrenching'.
Depsite declining COVID-19 cases, IPM organizers say the Ontario Government has yet to provide large provincial events with the details concerning capacity limits and additional restrictions.
“The health and safety of our visitors, exhibitors, sponsors, competitors, volunteers and staff has always been our number one priority,” said Sheila Marshall, President of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association. “While we fully support the health restrictions required to conquer the Covid-19 pandemic, the unknown stipulations for large events has made it impossible to proceed with the traditional in-person IPM”.
Directors and Staff are currently developing events and options that will bring the IPM experience to dedicated and faithful volunteers, participants and visitors later in the year. Once government regulations for large gatherings are made available, the Ontario Plowmen’s Association will be making further announcements.
The Board of Directors has confirmed that the 103rd International Plowing Match will be held in the Municipality of North Grenville at Kemptville form September 20th to 24th, 2022 and be centred around the former Kemptville Agricultural College Campus and the former Kemptville Agricultural College Farm.
Plans are also progressing for IPM 2023 which will be held in Dufferin County.
