IAFE Agricultural Awards Program
Category 8 (A) – Green Program
Fair Divisions 2 – Fairs with an attendance of 100,001 – 250,000
8 (A) Green Program
Focus Forward on Green
In 2009, The Great Frederick Fair expanded its green program by including a two-day expo, contained within the fair itself, called Focus Forward on Green (FFG). FFG included companies who focused on products and/or services that provided the latest in energy conservation.
A free event, FFG’s main objective was to provide the fairgoing public with the opportunity to speak one-on-one with the experts while gathering resouces on how to conserve energy waste and recycling options. Heighting the awareness of the importance of conservation of our natural resources, showing how every individual can make a difference, was paramount in TGFF’s goal to inform and activate its guests.
The two day event had 14 participants demonstrating the latest in lighting, fuel effencient exhausts and recycling of plastic and wood products to name a few. Exhibitors answered questions, provided handouts and conducted live demonstrations. Fairgoers’ reactions were positive as they were generally very pleased with the information they were given.
The FFG project garnered support from its state politician as it was presented in conjunction with Congressman Roscoe Bartlett’s office. To show his support, Congressman Bartlett visited the Community Tent where the FFG event was held and talked with each exhibitor.
Promotion of the event was handled in different ways. Exhibitors were made aware of the event via email corrospondance. Exhibitors were selected from a mailing list obtained by TGFF. Promotion of the event to the general public included posters at the event site; flyers at the 3 Guest Relations Centers; fairground announcements; and press releases to the media.