My wife Shirley and I recently attended the annual Michigan Ground Water Association (MGWA) Convention held in Battle Creek, Mich. I think this was my 63rd MGWA Convention, but only 58 of those in a row, as I missed the 1957 event. The convention, as it has been for several years, is far smaller than it was in the glory days of our industry. These days seem in the past here in Michigan and most contractors that I talk to are just “keeping the doors open,” although a few are doing quite well. In my opinion, our industry is a mature one and you don’t see many new products or hear of new ideas at these conventions. I did see two new things this year and both could be called gadgetry. Years ago, we would have up to 21 new drill rigs and pump hoists on display. This year, we had one brand new rig, one almost new rig that was cleaned up for display and a really antique rig that was, in reality, a boom and an engine-driven cathead for use with rope. The decline of this convention, or perhaps shrinkage, is nobody’s fault. That’s just the way it is.
One of the real benefits of going to conventions — and this year was no exception — was a chance to spend time with longtime friends, perhaps share a meal or two and catch up on what’s been happening in their lives. I did see several very close industry friends and we spent some time together that we all enjoyed. Several attendees came up and said they enjoyed these columns and that makes me feel good. One retired driller, though, who is my best friend in the industry and who I have known for many decades, called me after we returned home and said he took exception to some of my comments about well pits written a couple of columns back. He further said he thought I was putting down the well pit and he kind of missed these things. Now this fellow is well spoken and was not really mad, and we discussed the matter at some length.