Making hay while the sun shines

A FARMER KEEPS an eye on his hay rake as he turns over a cutting of alfalfa in a field along Mill Creek Road just west of The Dalles Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 1. Humidity and rain showers had dampened the cut, and raking turns it over so it can dry more quickly, keeping it from losing quality. It also consolidates the rows, making it more efficient to bale.

 Mark Gibson

A FARMER KEEPS an eye on his hay rake as he turns over a cutting of alfalfa in a field along Mill Creek Road just west of The Dalles Wednesday evening, Oct. 1, as the sun cast long shadows as it dropped behind the ridge.

Humidity and rain showers had dampened the cut, and raking turns it over so it can dry more quickly, keeping it from losing quality. It also consolidates the rows, making it more efficient to bale.