Mid-State Technical College will host this year’s Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Ag Day Celebration in conjunction with its annual Farm Tour on Tuesday, March 11. The events will be held in the Marshfield area from 7:30 a.m. to approximately 3:00 p.m. Exact times vary based on Farm Tour pick-up location. The public is invited to register for a day of exploring the latest technology and agricultural practices designed to enhance farming operations. 

In honor of the WTCS Ag Day Celebration, the day will start with a free full breakfast at the American Legion in Marshfield. Attendees will hear from special guest speakers, including WTCS President Layla Merrifield, Mid-State President Dr. Shelly Mondeik and State of Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Secretary Randy Romanski.
  
“It's important for all of us to be reminded of how integral agriculture is to Wisconsin's economy and culture,” said WTCS President Layla Merrifield. “Technical colleges are always working to better support the industry's future development and sustainability. I look forward to connecting with members of the agriculture community and meeting students studying ag programs at Mid-State Technical College. Their stories of how committed they are to the industry, and to the land, are a highlight of the day.”

“Technical colleges support the agricultural industry throughout Wisconsin, with specialized programming and expert faculty with relevant industry experience,” added Merrifield. “We are committed to sustaining and supporting farmers with the skills and education they need to succeed.”

After breakfast, attendees will tour Romadka View Holsteins and Heeg Brothers Dairy, LLC. Romadka View Holsteins, owned and operated by Mark and Kelli Elmhorst, is a fifth-generation dairy farm located in Granton, Wis. The farm has been in continuous operation since 1897. The Elmhorsts focus on cow comfort and longevity, using modern technology to enhance efficiency while maintaining their traditional farming values.

Heeg Brothers Dairy, LLC, located in Colby, Wis., is an equal partnership between Mark, Gary and Jay Heeg. The three brothers started the dairy farm in 1999 by combining their father's 120-cow stanchion barn and Mark's 140-cow barn. Over the years, they have expanded the operation, adding buildings and increasing the herd size to over 1,700 cows, milking over 1,500 currently.

“We are honored to host the WTCS Ag Day Celebration this year and excited to welcome farmers, educators and community members to the Marshfield area,” said Mid-State President Dr. Shelly Mondeik. “Farm Tour and the WTCS Ag Day Celebration complement each other perfectly by showcasing innovative agricultural practices and fostering meaningful discussions. This event not only highlights the vital role agriculture plays in our daily lives, but it also offers a unique opportunity for collaboration, learning and connection.”

The day will also include lunch and networking featuring Alice in Dairyland. As Wisconsin's 77th agriculture ambassador, Halei Heinzel’s goal is to educate audiences about the importance of Wisconsin’s diverse agriculture industry, how it impacts our daily lives and the $104.8 billion economic impact it has on the state’s economy.

Registration is required by March 4. Attendees can choose to attend only the WTCS Ag Day Celebration, only Farm Tour or the full event. Find full details and register at mstc.edu/farmtour.