Greg Doering, from the Kansas Farm Bureau, reflects on the role of plastics in modern life. He highlights the practicality and value of plastics, arguing that a complete ban would have negative consequences. Instead, he advocates for responsible management to address pollution issues, emphasizing the importance of embracing the benefits of plastic.
The article discusses the misconceptions surrounding farmers' income levels and the complexities of their financial situation. It highlights the capital-intensive nature of farming, the influence of external factors like weather and market fluctuations, and the stress involved in sustaining the farm for future generations. The author aims to dispel stereotypes and foster understanding of farmers' financial realities.
Kim Baldwin, a farmer and rancher in McPherson County, adopted a barn cat with a feisty personality. The cat, Mr. Gray, disappeared for a year before miraculously reappearing and returning to the farm. Despite his absence, Mr. Gray resumes his old habits of hunting mice, demanding attention, and overseeing farm activities.
As spring approaches, farmers face longer, grueling days with an increased risk of accidents. Despite carefulness, accidents can happen in a split second, especially when fatigued or rushing. Emphasizing the importance of rest and caution, the author shares a personal experience as a warning to fellow farmers and ranchers. Slow down, rest, and stay safe this spring.
In Kansas, the Callery pear tree, also known as the Bradford pear, is being targeted for elimination due to its invasive nature. Ranchers use prescribed burns to control its encroachment and promote new growth in grasslands. These fires also aid in the release of essential nutrients and warming of the soil, benefiting the ecosystem and livestock.
The USDA Census of Agriculture revealed that the number of farms in the US has decreased to fewer than 2 million, a significant drop from around 7 million in the 1930s. In Kansas, the trend is similar, with fewer farms but larger average sizes. Despite challenges, farming remains appealing, and the census underscores the need to support farmers.
The author, a farm-raised individual, reflects on the privilege of her upbringing, emphasizing the value of hands-on experiences and hard work. She contrasts her childhood with urban upbringing, highlighting the character-building aspects of farm life. The piece underscores the resilience and skills gained from farming, acknowledging the inevitable challenges and losses inherent in this way of life.
Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher
The winter months for many Kansas farmers and ranchers allows a bit of a slower pace before the spring...
By Glenn Brunkow, Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher
In the next couple of weeks each of Kansas Farm Bureau’s 10 districts will be holding their...
By Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau
Despite living my entire life in Kansas, I’ve never fully acclimated to the blasts of polar weather we occasionally...
Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau
The first significant snow arrived well before winter this year. Thankfully, it fell over Thanksgiving weekend, which meant I could...
By Jackie Mundt, Pratt County farmer and rancher
This past weekend Kansas Farm Bureau leaders from across the state gathered for our annual meeting. It...
By Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher
It’s all downhill from here! While fall harvest continues on our central Kansas farm, the difference from...
By Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau
Fall harvest is in full swing on our central Kansas farm.
Despite the smattering of golden triangles fluttering in my...
Kim Baldwin, McPherson County farmer and rancher
Fall harvest is in full swing on our central Kansas farm.
Our dryland and irrigated field corn has all...
By Greg Doering, Kansas Farm Bureau
Kansas farmers and ranchers set a new record for agricultural exports in 2022 by shipping nearly $5.5 billion worth...
Gov. Laura Kelly rejected a bipartisan tax cut package, citing concerns about long-term financial stability. She proposed an alternative plan to provide tax relief while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Lawmakers are divided, with the governor expressing worries about repeating past financial mistakes and the Legislature aiming to override her veto and implement the tax cuts.
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