Although rain poured on the 10th annual Quarry Quest, kids of all ages still turned out for the Michels Materials quarry event in Neenah, Wis., Sept. 13.

For one day only, the quarry along U.S. 41 became a theme park, classroom and playground.

The event gave visitors a one-of-a-kind opportunity to tour a working quarry, ride and explore giant excavation machinery and participate in a host of fun, hands-on educational activities such as “prospecting” for fool’s gold or mixing up a batch of concrete “cake.”

The event gave families a chance to come out and participate in fun activities and learn about the construction and mining industries.

Proceeds benefited children’s charities and earth science education.

FABCO Equipment Co. was one of the major sponsors for the day and had plenty of Cat machinery, such as 12 backhoes, on display throughout the site.

Other sponsors included Miran, American State Equipment and Engineers Local 139.

Trained operators were on hand to assist children.

Additionally, the event featured boom lift rides and tours on a Cat articulated truck.

Activity areas at Quarry Quest were designed to be hands-on, educational and fun. Children were encouraged to climb aboard massive quarry and construction equipment, or participate in more than 27 exciting activities designed to teach visitors about geology, mining and construction.