The Rural Voice, 1979-02, Page 17ideas with fellow young farmers, host farmers and extension
staff. One of the major philosophies which I had grown to accept
was that farmers needed to be protected by government - "our
big daddy." This Tour and subsequent discussions have opened
my mind to the fact that sound management decisions and not
government should determine our future and our income."
4. Some are asking themselves what they would like to get out
of agricultural education programs this winter. A wide range of
agriculturally oriented workshops, demonstrations, farm shows
and short courses are available about many specific subject
areas. So, get out the calendar, reserve dates and plan your own
curriculum.
S. A number, who have not had a much-needed vacation for
several years, are actively planning for an educational type
family trip to study what others are doing abroad in related
enterprises. This approach provides a change of pace as well as
enlarges on personal perspectives while sensing the pulse of the
situation elsewhere. Many of these efforts can often ultimately
assist in more accurate decision making.
6. In family operations, some see the need for more frequent
sessions to review and possibly update existing agreements in
the new year. Dinner conferences involving all family members
have worked well in many situations in the promotion of
harmonious business and inter -personal relationships. Intel-
ligent, frank discussions, with all the cards on the table,
generally result in a unique growing experience for all
concerned. Someone remarked, "The main thing is for everyone
to just keep talking. Try to appreciate why Dad doesn't
immediately see the changes that the young lad just home from
Ag. College can envisage." At the same time, there may be a
happy medium. Success usually results when business partners
resolve to work more diligently at distinguishing facts from
opinons in order to eliminate possible misapprehensions.
7. About farm credit - many have resolved to keep trying, even
though turned down on a first or second attempt. Experience
indicates that some of the most successful farm operations today
were the result of several attempts to strengthen a plan for credit
until approval was eventually given from a lending agency.
Above all, don't give up. Credit institutions are in business to
help - not hinder. A turn down may well be the "silver lining in
the cloud."
8. Resolve to consider an overall plan - wise management of
money, clear thinking, analyzing the situation, planning and
budgeting betore using your hands and back. Someone said,
"Many of us have our shoulder to the wheel and nose to the
grindstone most of the time, but have you ever really tried to
work in that position."
9. Attempts to cope with impulse spending as a result of
uncalculated, wishful decision making will continue to be an
area of concern. Never mind the well -calculated promotional
pitch. When it's time to decide if income from the crop should be
used for ancw machine, consider the alternatives. Would a good
used piece of equipment or perhaps even a custom effort be more
appropriate in some situations? Of course, maybe existing debt
payments should take precedence. Figure it out. If it won't work
on paper, it's not likely to work in practice. Resolve to consider
all major capital purchases carefully. Perhaps a complete line of
new equipment may not necessarily be essential to operate every
farm snr•cessfully.
10. Timeliness of different key operations around the farm are
being considered by some as important areas for attention in
1979. This may include keeping an accurate set of financial, tax
and production records up to date.
Weather permitting, others are planning more timely weed
control methods next year, calculated to stamp out these profit
robbers at the most susceptible stage.
11. Some plan to consider fewer field operations and attempt
to have equipment in better working order before the critical use
periods next year.
12. So many are quick to point out that although the family is
often the most important unit on the farm, good health
maintenance and a positive attitude of all concerned are key
aspects to remember when looking ahead to the new year.
Resolve to look after yourself at least as well as your livestock.
13. There is an ever-increasing need for greater safety
consciousness as farming operations become more mechanized.
14. Some have decided to set aside time to become more
actively involved in farm organizations in the future.
Socrates, the great teacher, firmly believed that "he knew he
didn't know" all the answers. Evident in so many conversations,
this same philosophy toward the maintenance of an open-minded
perspective should certainly be of assistance in developing
comprehensive New Year's resolutions.
May you and yours enjoy excellent health, much happiness
and great success - and good luck with keeping your very own
New Year's resolutions - all through 1979.
SMYTN SNOWBLOWERS
Cutting Req'd Approx.
Width H.P. Auger Fan Weight Hoods
Rear Mount
72" (6 ft)
35 & up
Single
24" x 8"
700 Ib.
Manual
16"
84"
55
Single
30" x 8"
800 lb.
Manual
20"
96"
70
Single
30" x 10"
950 Ib.
Hydraulic
20"
96"
100
14"
36" x 10"
1200 Ib
Hydraulic
20"
108"
120 & up
20"
36" x 12"
2000 lb.
Hydraulic
20"
SMYTN
Welding and Machine Shop
RR 2, Auburn, Ontario (519) 529-7212
THE RURAL VOICE/FEBRUARY 1979 PG. 17