The annual Farm Tour hosted by Mid-State Technical College is set for Wednesday, March 13, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The public is invited to register for the in-person event to explore the latest technology and agricultural practices designed to enhance farming operations. 

This year’s tour includes a showcase of Norm-E-Lane Farm Inc in Chili, Wis., owned by the Meissner family. In its 80-year history Norm-E-Lane has grown from 80 acres and milking cows by hand to 5,000 acres with 2,500 cows, 2,000 youngstock, and high-tech feeding and milking operations. They also capture their methane gas and produce marketable renewable fuel sources.

Participants will also tour Seehafer's City View Dairy, LLC, in Marshfield, Wis., owned and operated by Ben, Bruce and Kristine Seehafer, with family ownership going back to 1898. The main focus of Seehafer’s City View is cow comfort, care and cleanliness. They have been able to increase to 270 milking cows with a goal to get to 300+ while focusing on the comfort of the cow. Seehafer’s also has a dedicated maternity and vetting area for cows who need to be vetted or are ready to calve.

Lunch at the event will feature a presentation from Wisconsin's 76th Alice in Dairyland, Ashley Hagenow. As Wisconsin's agriculture ambassador, Hagenow’s talk will highlight the importance of the state's diverse agriculture industry, including its $104.8 billion economic impact on the state’s economy.

“Mid-State’s Farm Tour is the best way to see and understand emerging farm practices that are working right here in central Wisconsin,” said Mid-State Marshfield Campus and School of Applied Technology Dean Dr. Alex Lendved. “It’s always a highly anticipated event here at the College and offers a rare opportunity for anyone interested in agriculture. We look forward to another exciting day of connecting with our ag producers and showcasing the innovations that are working well for the farmers in our district.” 

Registration is required, and the cost is $10 each, with groups of five or more at $7 per person. Those who need extra support may qualify for full scholarships through the Mid-State Technical College Foundation, Inc. Find full details and register at mstc.edu/farmtour.