Advances in technology of agricultural equipment are giving farmers new opportunities to control various processes.

Deere & Co. is laying off nearly 600 workers as the farm equipment manufacturer deals with declining demand.

Visitors to the John Deere Historic Site this weekend were able to learn about his legacy – developing the first commercially successful, self-coursing steel plow nearly 190 years ago – tour his home and even play some fun games during the site’s Fall Fest.

The John Deere Historic Site will host Fall Fest with a wide array of activities Saturday, Oct. 14, and Sunday, Oct. 15, in Grand Detour.