As I write this we're winding down Day 2 of Husker Harvest Days in Grand Island, Neb. Celebrating its 35th year, this show can boast it is the only totally irrigated farm show in the country. But more than that this show offers visitors a wide range of new products, technology and information all in a single (though long) day of seeing the sights.
The 2012 show did bring along a little heat on Day 1 with wind, and more wind on Day 2, but threatened rains stayed clear. For Day 3, with the front finally through, the show is looking good to finish on a high note for the year. This show, which has always been at its site west of Grand Island near Alda, shows the value of a permanent facility with its finished roads, and easy access.
COOL START
A cool morning sunrise started Day 1 of Husker Harvest Days
HEADED TO PARK
Cars and trucks make their way into the show grounds to park so folks can join the fun at Husker Harvest Days 2012.
LINING UP
Once you park, you have to enter the site. Many folks lining up brought food donations so they could get in for free. The first 250 people every day - along with all FFA and 4-H members - get in free with a food donation. Thanks Monsanto and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation.
HONORED MEMORY
Opening day was also the 11th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, which was remembered with entrance flags at half-staff.
MARKET INFORMATION
Market Analyst Arlan Suderman tells it like it is for farmers interested in the latest market and risk management information for their operations.
CUSTOM TAGS
Livestock producers could get customized tags made at Husker Harvest Days. The show is filled with craftsman and experts hard at work.
LEARN BY DOING
At Syngenta visitors get a chance to learn more about the company in a series of interactive exhibits.
SLICK COMBINE
Massey Ferguson had a nicely painted machine in the field for harvest demos.
COMBINES AT WORK
A key feature of Husker Harvest Days is the chance to see equipment at work. Harvest demos are very popular.
INFLATABLE FUN
Kids visiting the Lexion exhibit could enjoy a bounce, or a ride on a "combine slide" - it was a popular attraction.
SUPER SHIRT
At least one visitor to Husker Harvest Days is covered up!
FOOD DONATED
Visitors donated food to help stop food insecurity. The first 250 visitors to the show got in free for a food donation, as well as any FFA and 4-H member (the same deal applies for Day 3)
We've rounded up a selection of photos for your enjoyment. These scenes of Husker Harvest Days, show you a little bit about what we've seen at this year's big event. If you can't make it for Day 3, plan to join us Sept. 10 - 12, 2013 right here near Grand Island, Neb. for the 36th annual show!
As I finish writing this blog, we get news that Day 2 wound down faster than planned as high winds caused safety worries, closing the gates early. However, weather for Day 3 could be the best all week.