(Chris Detrick | The Salt Lake Tribune) A 1936 John Deere B tractor owned by Marvin and Carma Hansen on display during a public celebration at the Federal Building commemorating the 150th anniversary of the United States Department of Agriculture Tuesday May 15, 2012. The USDA was established May 15, 1862 by President Abraham Lincoln

Salt Lake celebrates USDA’s 150th anniversary

THE SALT LAKE TRIBUNE

First Published May 16 2012 07:24 am • Last Updated May 16 2012 06:44 pm

On May 15, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation creating a Department of Agriculture — an event celebrated 150 years later at the Federal Building in downtown Salt Lake City.

The building’s plaza became an expo featuring agriculture and forestry benefits for the farmer and the public provided by various USDA agencies.

A new tractor next to antique tractors demonstrated efficiencies farmers and ranchers have today, while producing the nation’s food and fiber. USDA programs are geared to support the agricultural economy, strengthen rural communities by providing loans and loan guarantees, conserve natural resources and provide a safe food supply.

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