Community invited to register for Mid-State’s annual Farm Tour
Mid-State Technical College will again host its annual Farm Tour on Wednesday, March 15, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The public is invited to the in-person event to explore the latest technology and agricultural practices designed to enhance farming operations.
This year’s Farm Tour includes a showcase of Marshland Dairy in Spencer, owned and operated by Josh and Sarah Moga. Since taking over the dairy in 2015, the Mogas have modernized the farm through gradual budget-minded investments, including installation of automatic alley scrapers and a used robotic milker in repurposed existing buildings. They also converted to all Jersey cows and began breeding and selling cattle to increase profitability.
Participants will also tour Bells’ Runway Acres, a 1,250-acre corn and soybean farm in Marshfield, co-owned by Josh and Ken Bell. Converted from a dairy farm in 2015, the Bells will be showcasing their move to a dedicated grain operation, with all aspects of the business performed in-house, including soil management, planting, harvesting, grain drying, storage and trucking.
The Farm Tour will also feature a lunch presentation from the 75th Alice in Dairyland, Taylor Schaefer of Franksville. As always, the day will include opportunities for networking, discussion and sharing of ideas between current agriculture students, agribusinesses and those interested in agriculture.
“Mid-State’s Farm Tour offers a rare opportunity for anyone interested in agriculture to see emerging practices up close,” said Mid-State Marshfield Campus Dean Dr. Alex Lendved. “We look forward to a wonderful day of connecting with our ag producers and showcasing what’s working well for the innovative and resourceful farmers in our district.”
Registration is required, and the cost is $10 each for the first 100 people to sign up, thanks to the Mid-State Technical College Foundation scholarship program. Tuition is otherwise $30 per person. Those who need extra support can be considered for a full-tuition scholarship through the Foundation. Find full details and register at mstc.edu/farmtour.
