A week ago Dodge City was in the midst of the 3i Show, a signature event for those involved in farming and ranching operations.
The recently completed 3i Show was March 22 to 24 at the Western State Bank Expo Center. If one wants to get to the feel for the ebbs and flows of agriculture all he or she has to do is attend a farm show.
The attraction of a farm show is obvious—an opportunity to see the newest in technology and hear how other farmers and ranchers are looking into make improvements into their operations.
The 3i Show did provide opportunities in which farmers could get their questions answered. Those who operated booths said they did come away impressed with the one-on-one contact they had. And farmers and ranchers I visited with also voiced measured optimism and they were open to making improvements as the growing season nears.
There is no doubt this year represents the third consecutive year in which the per bushel price is challenging producers to stretch expenses as they look for limited spikes to move grain out of storage. Cattle producers—in all segments—voiced greater optimism although drought conditions limit plans for expansion for cow-calf operations in this region.
What I like about a farm show is it does provide producers an opportunity to congregate in one area and find out real solutions to identified problems. With other producers in attendance they can ask them questions if they have incorporated a new type of seed treatment or tried a new piece of equipment as examples.
With a down economy it is harder for farmers and ranchers and the agribusinesses that serve them to take time to go to shows and many of the vendors included owners of firms who came for several reasons. One reason included with spring break some employees needed to be with their families. Another reason was owners sincerely wanted to meet with farmers and ranchers to get feedback on their product.
As one event-goer said he still had to get his combine ready for the season and invest in his operation and that was why he decided to attend on the final day of the show.
All of this is refreshing and encouraging as one looks ahead to not only the spring planting season but to an unpredictable wheat harvest.
Farm shows represent stability and they do offer renewed optimism for those whose vocation is farming and ranching.
