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East River Benefits Local Economy

Buying locally does have its advantages.

One example of this occurred recently when, with many options for light construction equipment available, East River Electric Power Cooperative purchased a Gehl 6640 skid loader from Lake County International. And the decision couldn’t have been a better one.

“Gehl products stand up to the hard work we put on them,” said East River Transmission Superintendent Jim Iversen. “Lake County International has also provided us with excellent service over the years.”

Though Gehl products are sold all over the world, Dustin Williams, Gehl Company Plant Manager, does not underestimate the local business. “It’s especially important in a small community. It does a lot for the morale of the workforce when they realize people have confidence in the product.”

Celebrating its 150th year as an organization, Gehl began manufacturing skid loaders at the Madison plant in 1973. Once they began to roll off the line, Lake County International began its long-standing relationship with Gehl. Jeff Bloom, who along with his brother Tom Bloom own Lake County International, views the business partnership as a key ingredient of their success.

“Gehl is an integral part of our business and has valuable resources for Madison and Lake County International. We use these resources to the fullest extent and pass them on to the community,” Bloom said. “We’re very fortunate to be able to support each other and also to provide support to all residents in Lake County.”

Williams states the feeling is mutual. “Lake County International is an extremely important dealership of ours. The proximity seems to bring everyone in the community together and we definitely want to take care of our local people and dealership.”

Bloom also relishes the impact buying local products has on the area. “We appreciate East River’s loyalty and the effect that it has on our community.”

Keeping it local: East River Electric Power Cooperative recently purchased a Gehl 6640 skid loader from Lake County International. Pictured are (left to right) Dale Stegenga, Lake County International Business Manager; Dustin Williams, Gehl Company Plant Manager; Larry Ahrendt, East River Electric Purchasing Coordinator; and Denny Fouberg, East River Electric Utility Maintenance Coordinator.