First Fruits!
/Partners and Friends,
Harvest has begun! We picked around 600 acres of corn in the past week. Yields are variable and tile paid off big time this year! We are finding that the fields in which we have installed tile are producing significantly larger yields than those without tile. The moisture is still high-between 22% to 26% . The stalk strength is a bit concerning and the ears detach very easily when the stalk is jarred. We are working to keep the dryer running this week and began bean harvest today. From what we have heard so far, the bean yields are looking good! Considering the fact that there is no rain in the forecast for the next 2 weeks we believe harvest will progress very rapidly. The harvest crew attended the fall safety meeting (socially distanced, of course!) and we look forward to some enjoyable time in the field. We are still finishing up some summer projects but overall the beginning days of harvest are going as smooth as can be expected. We always welcome visits, please contact us if you would like to get involved!
The agriculture economy is in a state of flux with China at the moment. There is a lot of importation of agricultural products at the moment. The derecho in Iowa a few weeks ago has affected may farmers, did not end up reducing the corn crop. The stimulus wrangling in DC is causing concerns for overall recovery of the economy and as farmers we are trying to adjust to new paradigms in the food system. Many of these changes are here to stay. These tremendous adjustments in the economy are going to become the new normal.
The family is doing well! School is in full swing, as much as it can be due to the constantly changing protocols regarding the virus. Thankfully, Phyllis’ shoulder is healing remarkably well after her surgery.
Fall prices
Corn--3.67
SB--10.34
Stay safe and keep in touch! Let us know how you are adopting to all this change!
Prayers and thoughts,
Steve
