In 2009, the District of Temiskaming hosted the International Plowing Match (IPM). The IPM is a five day event and is known to be the largest outdoor agricultural event of its kind. The event featured over 600 exhibitors using more than 100 acres for their displays. The IPM provided entertainment for people of all ages. Children were provided fun educational experiences in the Education tent, where learners could experience agriculture, forestry and mining in a fun interactive way. Five stages were home to different acts ranging from choirs to dance troupes. Those in the market for tractors and other machines could visit Machinery Row for the latest equipment in the farming, forestry and mining business.
As the name of the event indicates, there was also a large and diverse plowing competition involved in the IPM. Many farmers came to compete in not only horse plowing, but tractor plowing and pulling as well. The district of Temiskaming was represented well in all levels of plowing and pulling. The Township of Matachewan had a well attended booth staffed by volunteers and built by Joe Bisson. We would like to congratulate all those who participated in this fun event.