Detasseling Becomes Rite Of Passage For Local Youth

Detasseling has become a rite of passage for many including these 47 kids from all around Antelope County who wanted to make a little extra money this summer.

The group started walking fields last Wednesday and will continue for about three more weeks. The process of detasseling involves hard labor as each field takes about three days to finish.

While Darcy and Nate Metschke never detasseled as kids, they became group leaders for NBS detasseling about 11 years ago. Nate explained that while it’s hard work, he plans to continue to do it until his kids can take over.

“It’s kinda fun to teach kids how to work and watch them grow up,” said Nate.

Darcy explained her first time out in the field 13 years ago. Her first time as a detasseling crew leader started in a field near Seward where she watched what she was supposed to do.

“My eyes were very big that day because I had no idea what I was getting into,” said Darcy. “I learned a lot that first year when I detasseled. Now I dream corn.”

While the job does include waking up at 5 a.m. each morning and lots of exercise, each kid perseveres through and the Metschkes explained how proud they are.

“They know Mom and Dad are going to make them keep coming so you might as well do the best you can,” said Nate.

You can look forward to reading more on detasseling and a video later in the week.

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