Farm tech days showcases local ag

The Wisconsin Farm Technology Days committee is seeking out hundreds of UW-River Falls students to volunteer at the event from July 20 to 22, said the head of the University’s agricultural college.

Last year’s Wisconsin Farm Technology Days, held in Dodge County, brought more than 80,000 people to the event, according to organizers of the Dodge County Farm Technology Days.

This year, the Pierce County Farm Technology Days’ board is anticipating a similar draw of about 25,000 people each day. This is a tremendous opportunity for the city, campus and community, said Dale Gallenberg, dean of the College of Agriculture Food and Environmental Sciences.

This event gives people the opportunity to see counties across Wisconsin showcase their own agricultural back-
ground, which this year is being held at the Peterson Family Farm about three miles south of River Falls. Students will have the chance to promote the agriculture industry through various committees, where they can further their personal and professional development, said Gallenberg.

Numerous student organizations will have the opportunity to play a vital role in the event, while representing the UWRF campus community by serving on various committees. Students will also have the opportunity for internships. The Wisconsin Farm Technology Days Board is looking for two interns to work with media coordination, especially on media day, said Danielle Hammer, UWRF student and Wisconsin Farm Technology Days publicity committee member.

While showcasing advancements in the agriculture industry, the event also serves as a networking tool for UWRF students. The 500 to 800 vendors in Tent City will be on hand to interact with students looking for internships or future jobs within the industry, said David Trechter, UWRF agriculture economics professor and publicity committee member.

The education committee is anticipating a tour of the Mann Valley Lab Farm throughout the event. The University Center will also host the thank you dinner for local volunteers on the evening of July 19. This dinner will showcase the UC and give volunteers the chance to view the campus if they have not been able to do so, said Gallenberg.

“Wisconsin Farm Technology Days provides farmers with the opportunity to learn about new agricultural technologies, which can help farmers maximize production,” said Michaela Fox, UWRF student and dairy farmer.

Agriculture plays a huge role in Pierce County, as it derives 20 percent of its jobs from the agriculture industry and nearly $300 million in economic activity, according to Pierce County’s Wisconsin Farm Technology Days’ brochure.

Not only will this event serve as a great way for agriculture to share its story, but it will also be a great economic stimulus for Pierce County. Weather permitting, it is estimated that Wisconsin Farm Technology Days will generate approximately $600,000 in the Pierce and St. Croix county area during the three-day event, said Trechter.

“A lot of work is put into showcasing Pierce County agriculture, so take advantage of the event, regardless if you volunteer or not,” said Gallenberg.

Interested students can visit the Wisconsin Farm Technology Days Web site, at www.piercefarmtech.com, for more information on how to get involved in the various volunteer opportunities.