As a pork producer, life on the farm is always full of stories, challenges, and moments of reflection. Whether it’s dealing with unpredictable weather, rising costs, or advocating for agriculture, our work is never dull. Here are a few highlights from the farm and thoughts from the past few weeks.
Preparing for Winter
While we’ve only seen a trace of snow so far, we know winter is just around the corner. Preparing the farm for snowstorms means cleaning up everything we can outside, including taking scrap metal collected over the past few months to the scrap yard. Staying ahead of the weather is just part of farm life!
Property Taxes: A Growing Concern
One topic on every farmer’s mind is rising property taxes. In our local area, we’ve seen increases averaging over 17%, with some properties seeing hikes of more than 100%. Add this to rising costs due to inflation and tight commodity prices, and it’s a significant burden for many in agriculture. Locally, new projects like a school (despite declining student enrollment) and a jail have contributed to the tax increase, but the impact on farmers is real and concerning.
The Farm Bill and Proposition 12
The ongoing lack of a new Farm Bill is frustrating, especially as a pork producer dealing with the implications of Proposition 12. We need solutions that address these challenges while respecting the realities of agriculture. I support change when it makes sense, but changes driven by entities unfamiliar with farming often leave us nervous about their impact. As farmers, it’s crucial we remain vocal and share our concerns.
A Thanksgiving to Remember
Thanksgiving brought a reminder of the importance of helping others. My son-in-law, a local car repair shop owner, helped two families in need that day. One had a flat tire, and the other needed a new alternator—both issues resolved thanks to his willingness to step up. These moments remind us that farmers, like others, are here to serve and support our communities.
Why We Grow Genetically Engineered Crops
The conversation around genetically engineered (GE) crops continues to gain attention. For us, GE crops have transformed farming practices, allowing us to grow healthier crops using fewer pesticides. Before GE technology, insects like the European Corn Borer caused devastating damage to corn plants. Bt corn, which produces a natural protein targeting specific larvae, has eliminated the need for full-cover insecticide sprays.
Additionally, Roundup Ready crops have revolutionized weed control, reducing the number of trips across fields and lowering the use of herbicides. These technologies have made farming more sustainable and environmentally friendly while improving yields.
At the end of the day, GE technology is a win for the environment, our soils, and farmers like us striving to improve our practices.
Closing Thoughts
As farmers, we’re always looking for ways to adapt, improve, and advocate for agriculture. Whether it’s addressing rising costs, advocating for sensible policies, or sharing stories that showcase the heart of farming, our work continues.
Stay tuned to Swine Web for more stories and perspectives from farmers on the front lines of agriculture.
Wanda Patsche is a pork producer based in Welcome, Minnesota, sharing stories and insights from life on the farm.
