December 2024 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 21 There are not many cattle in Iceland, nor corn or soybeans, but the countryside has a strong population of sheep. Our first meal after we landed was at a very nice restaurant with lamb being the main course offering. It was the best lamb entree any of us had ever enjoyed. Other interesting visits included a goat farm operated by a single family; a tomato farm greenhouse facility – powered by geothermal energy – that included a thriving restaurant in the same production area; an operation that housed a restaurant and dairy farm within the same structure; and a working farm at the base of a mountain that erupted in 2010. At the dairy farm/restaurant, the cows were grazing under the roof visible through a window next to the dining area. At the farm visit, it was fascinating to hear the husband and wife tell of their experiences dealing with their dairy cows and farm ground. The most unique Icelandic agriculture segment we saw was the horse industry. Since the country is an island, it has created its own horse breed, with a genetic base originating from Scandinavia. The country is very protective of the breed for numerous reasons, including health and purity. No horse is allowed into the country, and those that leave cannot return. The Icelandic horse is smaller in stature, and its most unique characteristic is it is five gaited. (Typically, horses have only four gaits.) Horse meat is also consumed by humans, which we all found interesting given the nature of the United States’ regulations surrounding horse meat. Other enjoyable features of the trip were climbing a glacier and walking inside tunnels within the ice. Swimming in a geothermal spa was another memorable experience. Unfortunately, a trip to the fabled Blue Lagoon was not in the cards for our group due to the possible threat of an eruption. Our guide regretted the missed opportunity, but it was the safe decision. Visits to waterfalls were stunning and numerous but are commonplace in Iceland. The memorable trip provided the opportunity to renew friendships with other participants and welcome new travelers who were not Nebraska Cattlemen members but saw 330 17th St., Syracuse (402) 269-2310 ♦ KanEquip.com From left to right: Touring the inside of a glacier in Iceland. Touring the Iceland National Church. One of many spectacular waterfalls in Iceland. A view of the Iceland coast. the offering from Executive Travel. Our group has done a wonderful job of connecting with new participants on these trips. Once again, it was well worth the time and value. If you have interest in the 2025 trip to Portugal, please consider it. Portugal is currently one of the most desired travel destinations in the world. The agriculture experiences will be more plentiful for those interested as well as the old-world cultural experiences offered in the Iberian Peninsula. I hope you will consider and ultimately attend. ~NC~
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