Picture of the day - June 20, 2008

"Making Hay"

Photo by Rick Rouse. Like much of the American south, rural Widener Valley, Virginia had to endure a prolonged drought last spring and summer which resulted in very poor hay crops. Many farmers in this area found themselves having to "import" hay from the Midwest and elsewhere which caused them to actually lose money when their livestock went to market. This year appears to be somewhat better though, with farmers in most areas getting at least one good "cutting" early in the hay season. Noticing this scene yesterday afternoon while driving down Widener Valley Road, I decided to pull over and take a picture or two. This one wound up being the "Picture of the Day". The tractor on the left was raking the dried hay into neat rows while the one on the right followed along and baled it, a dual effort that no doubt made quick work of the job. Hopefully this summer we'll have plenty of rain to help the grass grow thick and tall for a couple more harvests. After all, our farmers could sure use some relief and their livestock will need plenty to eat come winter.     Visitor Comments... Name: Phyllis Helton Town: Bristol, VA Bringing back memories...   Click here to comment on this picture.   Visit the POTD Archives for previous "Pictures Of The Day"!     Submit a photo of your own!                                 Place the "Picture of the Day" on your website, for free! Why I publish the "Picture of the Day"