Omar Bennett
A good farm is profitable, which requires hard work and dedication. The most successful farms combine modern innovation with practical knowledge from previous generations. A good farmer is a systems thinker, able to perceive and understand the linkages between the farm's productivity and the social and ecological dimensions of the farm. They are also deeply attuned to the natural pace of the farming system and are sensitive to anything that risks undermining the capital stocks. A good farm also has neat, tidy farmsteads, properly maintained buildings, and orderly equipment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Neat and tidy | Little or no junk, properly maintained buildings, orderly storage |
| Open to improvement | Evaluating new options and implementing beneficial changes |
| Marketing | Marketing crops and livestock effectively |
| Genetic constitution | Using breeding to improve quality |
| Energy and ability | Keeping the farm clean and tidy, and keeping clear records |
| Animal welfare | Care of the animal's physical body, care of the animal's physical environment, health management, happy–content animals, stock-keeping skills, objective decision-making, and animal productivity |
| Profitability | Combining modern innovation with practical knowledge |
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What You'll Learn
- A good farm is profitable, requiring hard work and dedication
- A good farmer is a systems thinker, understanding the farm's productivity and its social and ecological dimensions
- A good farmer is a great observer, looking out for feedback from across the system
- A good farm has a good water system for livestock
- A good farmer is always looking to improve, searching for ways to strengthen their operation
A good farm is profitable, requiring hard work and dedication
A good farm is profitable, but this requires hard work and dedication. The most successful farms combine modern innovation with practical knowledge passed down from previous generations. This means keeping up with evolving science, technology, and farming practices, and constantly evaluating whether there are better ways of doing things. Good farmers are humble and understand that there is always more to learn, but they also have the self-confidence to explore and implement new options.
This hard work also involves keeping the farm clean and tidy, with buildings properly maintained and equipment stored in an orderly fashion. Good farmers have the energy and tenacity to keep the farm in good condition, and to keep clear records. They also understand the importance of the genetic constitution of their plants and animals and use breeding to improve quality.
Marketing crops and livestock is a challenge for many farmers, as it is largely a private affair, only known to the farmer's banker or accountant. However, good farmers are able to persevere through trying times and are motivated to pursue their goals. They are also able to provide for others, which brings self-satisfaction.
Good farmers also demonstrate leadership, which is an important aspect of farm management. They motivate their team and pursue objectives, rather than just talking about them. They are also hardworking and earn an honest living, treating others with respect.
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A good farmer is a systems thinker, understanding the farm's productivity and its social and ecological dimensions
The concept of a "good farmer" also extends to animal welfare, encompassing care for the physical body and environment of the animals, health management, and ensuring the happiness of the livestock. Additionally, good farmers recognize the importance of genetics in their plants and animals, utilizing breeding to enhance quality. They also understand the social dimensions of farming, such as marketing their crops and livestock effectively, which can be challenging due to its private nature.
Furthermore, a good farm is profitable, requiring hard work and dedication. Successful farms combine modern innovations with practical knowledge passed down through generations. This involves adapting to new technologies and practices, such as the use of the cotton gin, which revolutionized cotton harvesting by increasing yield and reducing costs. Good farmers are also aware of the ecological dimensions of their farms, practicing proper land stewardship and implementing conservation measures.
Overall, being a good farmer entails a holistic understanding of the farm as a system, encompassing productivity, social considerations, and ecological sustainability. By embracing continuous improvement, effective management, and a willingness to adapt, good farmers contribute to the backbone of agriculture, ensuring its bright future.
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A good farmer is a great observer, looking out for feedback from across the system
One key indicator of a good farmer is the state of their farmstead. A well-maintained farm with neat and tidy buildings, orderly equipment storage, and minimal clutter suggests a farmer who is observant and proactive in their management. This attention to detail extends beyond the physical appearance of the farm, as good farmers also prioritise the welfare of their animals. They demonstrate care for the physical body and environment of their livestock, practice health management, and strive for animal productivity and contentment.
Good farmers understand the importance of genetics in plant and animal breeding to improve quality. They also possess the energy and organising skills to maintain a clean and orderly farm while keeping clear records. This dedication to their craft is further evidenced by their willingness to learn from their surroundings and adapt their practices accordingly. They recognise that nature operates according to laws beyond human control and strive to align their farming practices with these principles.
Additionally, good farmers recognise the importance of marketing in agriculture. While raising crops and livestock is often a public endeavour, marketing is a more private aspect that can be challenging for farmers. Neighbours and passers-by may judge a farmer's skills based on the visible state of their fields or pastures, but marketing skills are less observable and can be a critical area for improvement. Good farmers recognise this and strive to strengthen their marketing abilities alongside their farming practices.
Overall, a good farmer is characterised by their keen observation skills, willingness to learn, and ability to adapt. They seek feedback from their surroundings and across the farming system, constantly evaluating and implementing improvements. By combining modern innovations with practical knowledge from previous generations, good farmers strive for success and perseverance in the face of the challenges inherent in agricultural life.
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A good farm has a good water system for livestock
A good farmer will be diligent about maintaining their water sources and keeping them free from contaminants, such as algae blooms, high salinity, and nitrates. They will also take steps to prevent their water sources from drying up during droughts and ensure that their livestock has easy access to water, as this can improve their health and productivity. Well-pumped and gravity-fed systems are becoming more common as they help to maintain water quality by excluding animals.
Good farmers will also be mindful of the temperature and take steps to prevent their water sources from freezing in the winter. They may use insulation and other methods to protect their water sources from the elements. Additionally, they will monitor their water intake and be aware of any signs of dehydration or stress in their animals, such as tightening of the skin, weight loss, and drying of mucous membranes and eyes.
Farm managers with high-producing dairy cows have reported substantial increases in milk output when cows have readily accessible water. Similarly, keeping livestock within 800 feet of water can increase pasture carrying capacity by 14%. This is because animals that do not have to travel far for water will have more time and energy for grazing.
A good farmer will also be open to adopting new technologies and practices to improve their water systems and overall farm management. They will constantly evaluate whether there are better ways of doing things and implement beneficial changes. This might include using new watering systems or taking advantage of resources and assistance programs offered by government agencies and extension services.
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A good farmer is always looking to improve, searching for ways to strengthen their operation
Good farmers are constantly evaluating new scientific and technological advancements and farming practices to determine if there are better ways of doing things. They combine modern innovation with practical knowledge passed down from previous generations. For example, they may use new technologies to make farming less labour-intensive and more efficient, leading to higher yields and lower costs.
A good farmer also understands the importance of the genetic constitution of their plants and animals and uses breeding to improve quality. They have the energy and organizing ability to keep the farm clean and tidy and maintain their equipment and buildings properly. They also keep clear records and stay up-to-date with relevant regulations and requirements.
When it comes to animal welfare, good farmers prioritize the care of their animals' physical bodies and environments, health management, and overall contentment. They make objective decisions and focus on animal productivity while also ensuring the well-being of their livestock.
Marketing is another aspect where good farmers can improve. While raising crops and livestock is often a public affair, marketing is more private, and farmers can benefit from effectively promoting their products and connecting with customers.
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Frequently asked questions
A good farmer is always looking to improve and is open to new ideas and ways of doing things. They are also humble and know that there is always more to learn. They are good observers and listeners, and are sensitive to feedback. They are also hard-working and dedicated.
Good farmers combine modern innovation with traditional knowledge. They keep good financial and performance records, and develop a system of production that balances farm resources and available labour. They also maintain or improve soil fertility, and have a good water system for livestock.
A well-managed farm is neat and tidy, with properly maintained buildings and orderly equipment.
Good farmers may face challenges such as losing crops or livestock due to viruses, droughts, or early frosts. They also have to deal with unexpected setbacks and long hours.
