A cautiously optimistic mood among farmers vibrated through the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky, with attendance the highest in at least a decade.
Amid strong commodity prices, farmers still expressed concerns about getting the equipment and parts they need on time and at an affordable price this season.
Farming today requires a lot of “thinking ahead” especially when it comes to getting parts, said Ron Clauson, an Indiana farmer who toured the hundreds of exhibits with his nephew and great-nephew.
“If you want spring parts, you need to order them in the fall. If you want fall parts, you have to order them in the spring,” said the corn, soybean, and cattle farmer.
Today, it takes “more money with higher risk,” Clauson said.
Still, for his great-nephew, Harrison Burton, who loves everything about farming, touring the farm show is about the best 10th birthday he could wish for.
Somewhere in almost every conversation between vendors and farmers at the February 15-18 event, the question of supply comes up. “When will it be available? Will it be here in time for planting or harvest?” are common questions heard at many of the 900 exhibitor booths.
Several exhibitors say this is the best year they’ve seen for traffic and genuine interest from farmers.
“That defines a successful show,” said Ian Cox the spokesman for Kentucky Venues which operates the national farm show.
Source: agupdate.com
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle