By Kilah Hemesath, Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds Marketing Coordinator
From freedom of the open road to farm tours and fields stops, the 2016 Latham Freedom of Independence Ride will be a patriotic affair. Held on R.E.D. Shirt Friday, Aug, 19, riders will help raise money for service dogs in training with Retrieving Freedom Inc. (RFI).
Registration will begin Aug. 19 at 10 AM in Scott County Park near Eldridge, Iowa. After a complimentary lunch and a staggered start, riders will embark on a 120-mile journey consisting of five fun and informative stops:
- 90 Antique Tractors, 1 Farm Family Tradition – New Liberty, Iowa
See an exceptional treasure of antique tractors that three siblings and their father have restored. Their work is so good that they’ve won classes at the Iowa State Fair! Also at this stop, Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds’ President John Latham will share the Latham Story. Family runs deep, and the legacy it holds is built on dedication and history for both of these family operations.
- Precision Agriculture – Tipton, Iowa
Precision agriculture has been able to assist with increasing yield in the field. Latham’s General Manager Tom Lizer has a passion for giving our customers the most, so they can gain the most return FieldXFieldTM. Tom will give an update on this evolving technology and share tools with our riders that can be implemented in their own farming operation for maximum results.
- Forage and Cover Crop Innovations – Clarence, Iowa
Two hosts bursting will knowledge will be located in Clarence, Iowa. Heath Ellis from the Iowa Soybean Association will provide insights on how cover crops impact water quality, and he will share resources available for farmers interested in planting cover crops. Latham Forage Products Manager Corey Catt will introduce HarvXtra, a new alfalfa that provides record-smashing results plus benefits including low-lignin for better digestion and a longer harvest window.
- Next Generation Weed Management Systems – Welton, Iowa
Latham’s Product Specialist, Mark Grundmeier, will talk emerging seed-herbicide systems and provide a status update on seed and chemistry approvals. Get the lowdown on Xtend, BalanceGT and Enlist. Learn more about Liberty Link soybeans and IlEVO seed treatment that could help fight Sudden Death Syndrome. This is one presentation you will not want to miss!
- Antique Archeology – Le Claire, Iowa
A ride through Eastern Iowa wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the famous Antique Archeology in Le Claire. This “must-see-stop” is the last stop on the trip before returning to Scott County Park.
Those who complete all five stops will be eligible for fabulous door prizes including a genuine Road TechTM zumo® 660 widescreen motorcycle navigator.
Latham’s Freedom Ride will conclude at Scott County Park where riders will be treated to a barbecue and entertainment. Enjoy dinner while listening to Neil Hewitt, Nashville recording country artist.
There’s still time to join the fun, whether or not you have a motorcycle. Join our field day in a car or truck, or you’re welcome to join us only for the barbecue and country concert. Register online today!
Related Articles: