Story & Photos by Darren Olsen

The National Hay Convention took place around the sites and style of Chicago, Illinois from September 17-20. Hay producers and industry professionals boarded buses to visit Fair Oaks Dairy, the Chicago Board of Trade, take a floating lunch tour of the Chicago skyline from the Odyssey II, among other events. Some even escaped for awhile to watch the Cubs play.

Saturday was filled with the continuing business of the longest-standing hay producers’ association in the U.S. along with an ongoing discussion from the key players in the Roundup Ready alfalfa debate. Attendees came from all across the country, from California to New York.

Our thanks to Ron Tombaugh (outgoing Association president) and Donald Kieffer for their kindness and hospitality. We look forward to next year’s meeting in South Dakota. For more information on next year’s tour or how you can become a member of the National Hay Association, contact their main office at 800-707-0014. HG

ABOVE: Attendees take a break before hearing the latest debate on Roundup Ready alfalfa. Photo by Darren Olsen.

ABOVE: Sunshine and good company is shared before boarding the Odyssey II for lunch and a waterside tour of the Chicago city skyline. Photo by Darren Olsen.