Farming

It’s hard to believe that we are beginning to plan for the 2013 crop year. Following a summer of super-hot temperatures and limited rainfall, it sure would be nice to enjoy a seasonable year.
This past season tobacco seems to be a growing interest for several producers in our county. Prices have been good and those producing the crop seem to be very consistent. Because of this we will have a tobacco production meeting on Monday, Jan. 28 at the Harrison County Extension Center. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m.

This time of the year subtle warnings come from professionals reminding the consumer to be skeptical of mail order catalogues or advertisements that claim “new horticultural breakthroughs,” otherwise outrageous claims or mass quantities of things for bargain basement prices.  
There are legitimate “horticultural breakthroughs,” but usually different terminology is used and you’ll find them at your local stores.   

We had our Scag mower serviced a few weeks back. She suffered from some sort of oil leak all summer and looked a little weary and unkempt so I felt a bit negligent when I dropped her off.
Taking care of your lawn and garden equipment was something that was pounded into my world view of farm responsibilities when I was growing up.  

If there was anything that I came to understand more profoundly this year it would have to be the power of instinct: mine, our animals and the forces of ideologies of which I agree and disagree.
I reread my year end column from 2011, which reminded me of where I was 12 months ago; it helps me better appreciate where I am today.
It seems we didn’t do too badly, after all, and it’s all because both Andy and I recognize the power of instinct.