26 Jul Christy: Sights Unseen

Fort Benton, Montana — We made the move to Montana. On the first round to Bowman, North Dakota, we saw lots of blown tires. One combine trailer alone lost three tires. We had to stop quite a bit and ended up splitting our convoy into separate groups, but everyone made it safe and sound.

After arriving in Fort Benton, we set up campers and started unloading equipment. It looks like we might have a day or two before we can get started in the field. The weather here has warmed considerably in the last week and looks to be heating up for the considerable future. There’s no rain in the forecast, and that’s not uncommon this time of year. I can’t remember a year when we’ve been rained out for a long time in this area.

We filled the lot we park in at Fort Benton pretty well – and we decided it’s time for a small break. Everyone chose a thing to do, and we all went our separate ways to enjoy a little before we start cutting.

Paul and I finally made it out to Glacier National Park. We have wanted to go for a long time, but we just haven’t had the time to make the trip. It was a sight worth seeing, and after coming to Montana for more than 10 years, this has definitely been on our bucket list. Just Paul, Zoey and I loaded up the pickup and went without a plan. Those are the best trips.

Our crew kept closer to home base and explored Great Falls. They visited Giant Springs State Park and enjoyed the clear water, fish and scenery. They also squeezed in the water park and scooter rides through downtown. I think everyone was happy to get to do their own thing and have a break before we get started here.

It’s time to get back to business now. I’m hoping we start cutting today, but we’ll see if it’s dry enough yet. I’m excited to see how Montana’s wheat crop will do this year.

Thank you to our 2024 All Aboard Wheat Harvest sponsors: High Plains Journal, Lumivia by Corteva Agriscience, Unverferth Manufacturing Co., Inc., Merit Auctions, Kramer Seed Farms,Shelbourne Reynolds, and U.S. Custom Harvesters, Inc.