Get ready, folks! Wisconsin Farm Technology Days is heading to Stratford in 2026, and it’s going to be a big one. Hosted at Redetzke’s No Joke Dairy, this event is all about celebrating what makes Wisconsin agriculture so special. Mark your calendars for July 14-16, 2026, because you won’t want to miss this chance to see farming’s latest and greatest.
Key Takeaways
- Wisconsin Farm Technology Days 2026 is set for July 14-16 at Redetzke’s No Joke Dairy in Stratford.
- The event will showcase the Redetzke family’s fifth-generation farm, highlighting their blend of tradition and modern technology, including robotic milkers.
- Expect a wide range of field demonstrations and interactive exhibits focused on the future of farming and Wisconsin’s agricultural strengths.
- The show aims to celebrate Wisconsin’s identity as ‘America’s Dairyland’ and the importance of family farms and rural communities.
- There will be a strong focus on youth programs, leadership development, and career opportunities within the agricultural sector.
Wisconsin Farm Technology Days 2026: A Stratford Celebration
Get ready, folks! Wisconsin Farm Technology Days is heading to Stratford in 2026, and it’s going to be a big one. This year’s event is hosted by the Redetzke family at their farm, "No Joke Dairy." It’s a fantastic chance to see what’s happening on the cutting edge of farming right here in Wisconsin.
Welcome to Redetzke’s No Joke Dairy
This isn’t just any farm; it’s Redetzke’s No Joke Dairy, located at 216601 Wescott Ave in Stratford. The Redetzke family has been farming this land for five generations, starting way back in 1911. They’re currently home to about 400 head of cattle, including young stock. What’s really interesting is that they’re still milking in the original tie-stall barn but have plans to add a new barn with six robotic milkers. This blend of deep-rooted tradition and forward-thinking technology is exactly what Farm Technology Days is all about. It’s a real-life look at how farms are evolving.
A Legacy of Agricultural Innovation
Wisconsin Farm Technology Days has a long history, dating back to 1954. It started as a way to show off new farming ideas outside of university labs. Over the years, it’s grown into one of the biggest outdoor farm shows in the country. Each year, it moves to a different county, giving everyone a chance to see different types of farms and learn about local agricultural strengths. Stratford and the surrounding Marshfield area have hosted this event before, in 1960, 2011, and 2018, so they know how to put on a great show.
Mark Your Calendars: July 14-16, 2026
So, when should you plan your visit? Circle July 14th through the 16th, 2026, on your calendar. The show runs from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm each day. General admission is $15 per adult, and they prefer cash at the gate. Kids 12 and under get in free, and parking is also free. It’s a great opportunity to spend a day (or three!) learning about the future of agriculture.
Exploring the Future of Farming at Wisconsin Farm Technology Days
Diverse Field Demonstrations
Get ready to see some serious action at Wisconsin Farm Technology Days! This isn’t just about looking at tractors; it’s about watching them work. You’ll get to see a whole range of farming tasks happening right before your eyes. Think about everything from planting and harvesting crops to how feed is managed. They’re planning to show off both the old-school methods that have worked for years and the brand-new tech that’s changing how we farm. The goal is to give you a real look at what Wisconsin agriculture is all about, from the big operations to the family farms. It’s a chance to really understand the day-to-day work and the innovations that make it all possible.
Interactive Exhibits and Learning
Beyond the fields, there’s a whole lot more to explore. The exhibit areas are where you can get hands-on and learn directly from the experts. You’ll find companies showing off their latest equipment, but also groups focused on education and safety. They want to make sure everyone understands how important safety is on the farm – it’s not something to mess around with. Expect to see displays covering everything from new technology to tried-and-true farming techniques. It’s a great spot to ask questions, get advice, and maybe even discover a new tool or idea that could help on your own farm.
Showcasing Wisconsin’s Agricultural Strengths
Wisconsin Farm Technology Days is a big deal for the state, and this year in Stratford, it’s all about highlighting what makes Wisconsin agriculture so special. They’re planning to show off the dairy industry, which is a huge part of the state’s identity. But it’s not just about cows; they’re also going to feature the manufacturing and tech sides of farming, showing how innovation and tradition go hand-in-hand. It’s a celebration of the hard work, the commitment to the land, and the strong communities that make Wisconsin farms successful. You’ll see how the state is leading the way in farming and what that means for the future.
The Redetzke Family Farm: A Fifth-Generation Showcase
Welcome to Redetzke’s No Joke Dairy
Get ready to step onto a farm that’s been in the same family for over a century! Redetzke’s No Joke Dairy, located near Stratford, is the proud host for Wisconsin Farm Technology Days 2026. This isn’t just any farm; it’s a fifth-generation operation, meaning the Redetzke family has been working this land since 1911. The farm’s name, "No Joke Dairy," actually came about because Matt Redetzke was so serious about leaving his welding job to milk cows. It’s a testament to their dedication to agriculture.
A Legacy of Agricultural Innovation
The Redetzke family has a deep history, starting with Otto and Ottelia Redetzke who built the original barn. Today, Matt and Brittany Redetzke, along with Matt’s brother Sam, are at the helm. They’re not just continuing traditions; they’re actively looking to the future. While they still milk in the original tie-stall barn, they have big plans. They’re getting ready to build a new barn equipped with six robotic milkers. This blend of honoring the past while embracing new technology is what makes their farm so special.
Mark Your Calendars: July 14-16, 2026
Make sure you circle these dates on your calendar: July 14th through the 16th, 2026. That’s when you can experience firsthand the hard work and forward-thinking approach of the Redetzke family. They are home to about 400 head of cattle, including young stock, and are a significant part of Wisconsin’s dairy industry. It’s a chance to see a working farm that’s been passed down through generations and is still growing and adapting.
Celebrating Wisconsin’s Agricultural Identity
Innovation Meets Stewardship
Wisconsin’s farming scene is a really interesting mix. It’s not just about new gadgets and high-tech gear, though there’s plenty of that. It’s also about respecting the land and the way things have been done for generations. This blend of old and new is what makes Wisconsin agriculture stand out. You see it in how farms are managed, balancing the latest research with practices that have proven themselves over time. It’s about making sure that as we push forward with new ideas, we’re not forgetting the lessons learned from our past. This approach helps keep farms healthy and productive for years to come.
The Unmatched Excellence of Dairy Farming
When you think of Wisconsin, you probably think of cheese and milk, right? That’s because dairy farming isn’t just a business here; it’s practically woven into the state’s identity. Farm Technology Days 2026 is going to really highlight what makes Wisconsin the "America’s Dairyland." It’s about celebrating the hard work, the dedication, and the sheer quality that goes into producing dairy products that people love.
Here’s a look at how Wisconsin’s dairy sector has evolved:
- 1997: Wisconsin had 24,065 dairy farms.
- 2022: That number dropped to 6,216 dairy farms.
- Overall Decline: A significant decrease, showing the changing landscape of farming.
The Strength of Family Farms and Communities
At its heart, Wisconsin agriculture is about families and the communities they build. These farms, often passed down through generations, are more than just businesses; they’re a way of life. The Redetzke farm itself is a fifth-generation operation, showing a deep connection to the land and a commitment to keeping the family legacy going. Events like Farm Technology Days bring these families and their neighbors together, strengthening the bonds that make rural Wisconsin so resilient. It’s this shared spirit and support system that truly underpins the success of farming in the state.
Cultivating the Next Generation of Agricultural Leaders
Youth Programs and Leadership Development
Wisconsin Farm Technology Days isn’t just about showcasing the latest equipment; it’s also about making sure the future of farming is bright. This event really puts a spotlight on programs that help young people get involved and learn what it takes to lead in agriculture. Think Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H clubs – these are the places where many future farmers and leaders get their start. We’ll have special areas dedicated to these groups, showing off their projects and the skills they’re building. It’s all about giving them a platform to shine and connect with mentors.
Career Pathways in Agriculture
Farming today is way more than just planting seeds. It’s a complex industry with all sorts of jobs, from managing robotic milkers to developing new crop technologies and keeping giant machines running. At the 2026 show, we’re going to break down these different career paths. You’ll see how technical colleges and university research are shaping the future, and how you can be a part of it. Whether you’re interested in the science behind growing food, the mechanics of farm equipment, or the business side of agriculture, there are opportunities. We want to show everyone that a career in agriculture is diverse, rewarding, and absolutely vital.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
Talking about farming is one thing, but actually doing it is another. Wisconsin Farm Technology Days is famous for its hands-on learning. You won’t just see demonstrations; you’ll get a chance to see how things work up close. We’re planning activities that let people try things out, ask questions, and really get a feel for modern farming practices. This is where the real learning happens, especially for the younger crowd. It’s about making agriculture accessible and exciting for everyone, from kids to adults looking for a career change.
The Collaborative Spirit Behind Wisconsin Farm Technology Days
Putting on an event like Wisconsin Farm Technology Days doesn’t just happen. It takes a whole lot of people pulling together. Think of it like a big community barn-raising, but for showcasing the latest in farming tech. It really shows off what makes Wisconsin agriculture so special – all those volunteers, local businesses chipping in, and different groups working toward the same goal.
Volunteer Power and Community Partnerships
This whole show relies on folks from the local area. Dozens of committees, with hundreds of volunteers from Marathon County alone, are already deep in the planning. These aren’t just random people; they’re often folks with real know-how in areas like fundraising, setting up field demos, managing the grounds, or coordinating all the helpers. They’re the ones making sure everything runs smoothly on the ground.
A Proven Organizational Model
For decades, Wisconsin Farm Technology Days has used a solid plan to get ready for the big event. It all starts with an Executive Committee that guides the whole operation. Then, more than a dozen specialized committees take charge of different parts of the show. We’re talking about committees for things like:
- Fundraising and Sponsorships
- Field Demonstrations and Crop Plots
- Grounds and Facilities Management
- Youth Education and Programs
- Publicity and Communications
- Volunteer Coordination
- Exhibitor Relations
These committees meet regularly, often monthly, and use shared tools to keep everyone on the same page. They work closely with advisors from the state and the host farm family, like the Redetzkes, to make sure all the details are ironed out. It’s a system built on experience, making sure the event is well-organized and ready for whatever comes its way.
Ensuring a Seamless Event Experience
When you come to the show, you’ll see the results of all this hard work. The goal is to create an event that’s both educational and enjoyable for everyone. From the practical field demos that show real farming in action to the interactive exhibits and the chance to connect with experts, it’s all designed to give you a good look at modern agriculture. The partnerships with local businesses and organizations help bring in a wide variety of displays and activities, covering everything from the newest gadgets to tried-and-true farming methods. Safety is a top priority, and it’s woven into every aspect of the show. This collaborative effort is what makes Wisconsin Farm Technology Days a success year after year.
See You in Stratford!
So, mark your calendars for July 14th through the 16th, 2026. Wisconsin Farm Technology Days is heading to Stratford, specifically to Redetzkes’ No Joke Dairy. It’s going to be a fantastic chance to see what’s new in farming, learn from the experts, and connect with others in the ag community. Whether you’re a farmer, work in the industry, or just curious about where your food comes from, this event has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this big celebration of Wisconsin agriculture!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wisconsin Farm Technology Days?
Wisconsin Farm Technology Days is a huge outdoor farm show that travels around the state each year. It’s a place where farmers, companies, and experts show off the latest farming tools, ideas, and ways of doing things. Think of it as a giant classroom and marketplace for everything related to farming.
Where and when is Wisconsin Farm Technology Days 2026?
Get ready for the 2026 event! It’s happening at Redetzke’s No Joke Dairy, located at 216601 Wescott Ave in Stratford, Wisconsin. Mark your calendars for July 14th, 15th, and 16th, 2026.
What can I expect to see at the show?
You’ll see amazing live demonstrations of farming equipment in action, explore tons of exhibits from different companies, and learn about new farming technologies. They’ll show everything from how crops are grown to how dairy cows are cared for, and even new ways to use energy on the farm.
Who are the Redetzkes and why is their farm hosting?
The Redetzke family has owned this farm for five generations, since 1911! They are a dairy farm with about 400 cows and are known for blending old traditions with new ideas, like using robotic milkers. Hosting the event is a way for them to celebrate Wisconsin’s strong farming history and future.
Is there anything for young people at the event?
Absolutely! Farm Technology Days really focuses on inspiring the next generation of farmers. There will be special programs for youth, chances to learn about different jobs in agriculture, and lots of hands-on activities to get young people excited about farming.
How can I get more information or get involved?
For all the latest details, you can visit the official website at www.wifarmtechdays.org. You can also follow them on social media using the hashtag #WFTD2026 and by following @WIFarmTechDays. If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more about the planning, the website is the best place to start!
