Posted: 07.20.2010

About 150 volunteers and supporters were on the UW-River Falls campus Monday night preparing for the start of the states largest outdoor agricultural event - WI Farm Technology Days.

I had a chance to walk in along with host family, Roger and Bev Peterson. Scattered showers have passed through the area all weekend - keeping the grounds crew moving with wood chips to keep driveways in good condition.  "I just finished cutting the last hay off the parking areas this morning," a tired but smiling Roger Peterson told me.  He said things were going very well and that both and he and Bev are just amazed at the people that have showed up to help move the grounds and tent city into the final stages.

In the audience, Roger and Bev recognized family members that have gone through the preparation experience with them, including Roger's father, Leroy.  Leroy Peterson not only continues to help out on the family farm - he's also one of the 10 county board members that were in the audience to show support.  The Peterson's have five children - three of which are coming back to the farm after off-farm employment left them missing "home".

Ron Schuler, general manager of WI Farm Technology Days, said that Pierce county was making firsts in many different ways.  This is the first time that Pierce county has ever hosted the show.  This is also the first time the show's ever been held this far west in the state.  It's the first time the show has ever officially had the chance to partner with an agricultural university like UW-River Falls too. Those are just a few of the "firsts" that Schuler and other executive committee members have been keeping track of.  Also in the audienc was Glen Thompson - show manager for more then 13 years, now acting as a consultant to WFTD.  "I don't have a nerve in my body tonight!"  Thompson told me after a welcome hug!

Rick Klemme, board chair of FTD, introduced additional board members, as well as commending Pierce county for its financial support of the show.  River Falls mayor, Don RIchards, was one of the local officials recognized for all the "in-kind" donations he mustered with city staff and resources to help with the show - especially traffic duties.

Greg Andrews, executive secretary for Pierce county, paused to thank all the extension staff that's been working behind the scenes to help with the show - and the spouses of all the volunteers for their patience.  Rick Klemme noted early that WFTD is very grateful for the time that Andrews has been able to spend dedicated to the show and away from his regular UW-Extension position in Pierce county.

So now - we wait and watch.  Wait for the people.  Watch for changing weather.  Keep checking back for updates!

« back to news articles