Posted: 04.16.2010

For the first time in recent history, Wisconsin is not lacking interest in hosting the states largest outdoor agricultural event.

Rick Klemme, Chair of Wisconsin Farm Technology, Inc. said that things really seemed to change in 2009.  At that time, Klemme said there were nearly 3 counties that were bidding to host the event - compared to 2008, when the board was nearly begging for someone to host.

Klemme said because of that interest, the rotating event will move from Pierce county this July, to Marathon county in 2011 and on to Outagamie county for 2012 - with Barron county already preparing to host the 2013 event!  Klemme admits that its a luxury the board is not taking for granted!  He told Pam Jahnke that the issue of a possible permanent site in the future is still discussed.  Klemme says its not necessarily about the lack of county interest - but instead thinking about "weather-proofing" future events with the benefits a permanent site would offer.

Pierce county executive board member, Greg Andrews, said the economy on the other hand - is still in play.  Andrews admits that they've been nervous about commercial exhibitor response for their July show just outside of River Falls.  The Roger and Bev Peterson dairy farm will be the focal point, featuring a new dairy parlor currently milking the dairy herd three times a day.

Andrews said community support has been tremendous even if commercial exhibitor committment has been a little sluggish.  To date, Andrews said the committee has sold over $34,000 work of cookbooks to generate funds - an idea that's been continued in Marathon county too.

The Pierce County Farm Technology Days show will be July 20-22.

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