The Daily Dispatch

Cold weather and rain showers force most people indoors, but for roughly 25 young people currently camped in Welles Memorial Park for the beet harvest, braving bad weather is just part of the job.

Workers from eight states carpooled to Breckenridge this year for a profit that can carry some for five months, depending on what country or city falls next. While a few hold down jobs during the year, most of the crew spend their lives working at odd jobs to fund a life of travel. Everyone appears to be in their 20s and early 30s.

"They're great workers," said Paul Beech of Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative. "I guess I call them my nomads because they kind of go place to place."

Beech's connection to Jeffrey Rocketmild and others started years ago, thanks to a New Mexico man who was acquainted with some of the current members. Although Beech was unavailable to tell the story, the effect of the acquaintance has provided him with a steady stream of available help.

Ninety percent of the group returns annually to pile beets during 12 hour shifts in the fields. Although it may be hard for some to imagine the benefit, battling the cold, snow and long hours is more tolerable among a tightly knit group.

"You're working with friends, so it's an enjoyable experience," said Rocketmild, a 29-year-old who resides in Kansas City, Mo.

For Sarick Matzen, 32, the opportunity gives him the chance to walk into a different world.

"Here I get to experience the world of industrial farming," said the California resident. "I'm a cog in the wheel of refined sugar production."

The profit after harvest is the greatest benefit and helps some pay for additions to their homes and foreign travel for others. Last year, Rosa Oesterreich, a 23-year-old native of north central Minnesota, headed to South America for nearly half a year on the money.

Lack of work during the harvest can be the most frustrating experience for the group, but they've spent some of the quiet days canoeing down the Red River and playing music at the shelter. On Monday, several skipped town due to the rainy weather and lack of work, but a few stayed behind and warmed themselves by a make-shift fire. In appreciation of their work, the city has opened the chateau and other park buildings for their use.

Rocketmild and Matzen stated Breckenridge residents have been very kind to them, particularly as the city becomes more familiar with their presence. Several have donated food and other necessities to the group, and one man invited them to press apples at his house. Rocketmild, who is on his third harvest, said he's never had to really worry about it.

"We take care of each other in that way," he said.

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