SHELBY, IA – The Board of Directors of Carstens 1880 Farmstead has decided to postpone Farm Days this year until September 11 & 12, 2021,  due to COVID-19 safety considerations. The Board, at its June meeting, had decided to proceed with the Saturday evening chicken dinner/fundraiser this year.  Now plans have changed again at the farm.

During a recent Board meeting it was decided that it would be too difficult to provide physical distance for the dinner, plus the on-going COVID-19 situation could impact attendance.  The Board decided to cancel the chicken dinner plans this year.  Farm Board President Mel Hursey said “We know it is disappointing to cancel the chicken dinner.” Those who attend Carstens Farm Days know that the soil on the farm grows a large quantity of flavorful potatoes.  This year the potato harvest, or digging, will go on as planned during the traditional Farm Days weekend.

The public is invited to come to the farm and gather the freshly dug potatoes.  Gates will be open from 10 am – 4 pm on Saturday, September 12.  Potatoes will be on the ground and on a trailer as in past years.

Hursey says “Anyone who wants to have a supply of Carstens potatoes is welcome to come and pick them up on Sunday, September 13.” The Board is asking that a donation be made to the farm by anyone who gathers potatoes.  The donation will be used to help with the maintenance of the farm.  Hursey added, “Come out and see the farm, have some fun and get a supply of good spuds.”