The Huckaby family on Oct. 17 stands in front of the Huck Salt memory wall. From left: Conner Holcombe, Tanner Huckaby, Kandon Huckaby, John Huckaby, Troy Huckaby, Kovey Huckaby, Tron Huckaby and Jessica Huckaby.
Sara Dowling | NNG
The Fallon Chamber of Commerce held its monthly luncheon Oct. 17 in the Huck Salt facility at 5033 Austin Highway where they learned about the salt industry.
After lunch Tron and Jessica Huckaby led guests through the basics of salt harvesting, drying and packing in the warehouse. John Huckaby shared his memories in the main office, where a wall of photographs displays the intertwined history of the company and the family from the beginning to current day.
Founded in 1938 by Elmer Huckaby, Huck Salt has continued to flourish under the love and care of four generations. In 1990, Elmer’s son John inherited the business after the elder Huckaby’s death. Two of John’s sons, Troy and Tron, also are with the family business.
The website Made in Nevada described the Huckaby’s early operation.
“With just a shovel and a wheelbarrow, Elmer harvested salt. It took him two days to shovel six tons of salt and then took it into town and sold it to IMP Creamery in Fallon. It took one day to unload by hand for $7 per ton. After selling the salt, he decided that a person can make a good living doing this.”
The company’s 100% natural salt is harvested from a surface salt mine created by solar evaporation. Huck Salt ice melt with concrete-safe options, heating pellets and wood, agricultural nutrition, water softener, pool salt and soil testing kits are widely used by local farmers, road departments and homes.
Products may be purchased directly from their office or found in Fallon at Kent’s Supply Center, Louie’s ACE Hardware and The Village Garden Center. Delivery is available for an additional cost.
For information call 775-423-2055 or email huck_salt@yahoo.com.