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.