Hi there Summit County!! How are you doing? Well things have certainly
changed from last year at this time.
Last year, I was talking about the Ukraine-Russia War and the prices of
fertilizer. Fertilizer prices have settled some, but the war still continues.
Did you know Ukraine is the largest exporter of sunflower oil? And one of
the top ten exporters of corn and cereal grains? Wonder if we eat anything
they produce? My answer is, “I’m sure we do”.
Farming is vital in every way shape and form and is affected daily on all
scales. When people see hail coming out of the sky, I’m sure their
concerns are their houses and cars. A farmer’s thoughts are do I have
crop damage, how bad, do I have insurance and can I recover from this?
Mother Nature is a fickle thing when working or relying on her. Dad and I
have had corn standing one day and flat on the ground the next.
Dealing with the ups and downs of farming isn’t for everyone and mental
health has been a huge topic in the Ag world lately. Some can cope with it,
some need help with it, and some just give up. If you know of someone in
need of help contact https://agri.ohio.gov/gotyourback or
https://www.fb.org/initiative/farm-state-of-mind.
Orange barrels, cones, and detour signs definitely affect the farms and his
mental health. Especially if you’re a local business; will my customers
come, is it too far and inconvenient. If they don’t come, how will I pay my
bills and employees? This is happening right now on South Cleveland
Massillon Road with The Winery at Wolf Creek and Carl Harp Nursery, as
well as other local businesses in the county. So please, take that extra few
minutes and support your local business.
One major thing that is on the hot plate this year is the Farm Bill. The Farm
Bill is a piece of legislation that is vital for all farmers. It covers aspects like
crop insurance, conservation, nutrition (food stamps/snap program), food
research and education and pretty much anything that we need for
agriculture production. That will be the main focus this fall. It was the
major topic in March when I attended the OFBF Presidents’ Trip to
Washington D.C. I am always thankful to be a part of this trip and meet
other farmers and get their perspectives from around the state.
The Summit County Fair will be July 25-30 with lots of great events and
things to see, so check the schedule. Be sure to stop by the Summit
County Farm Bureau Antiques Museum to visit the SCFB board members
and see the changes we have been busy making.
Hope your summer is safe, eventful with family and friends, and remember
to support your local farmers!
Tim Luther
Summit County Farm Bureau President
5 th Generation Farmer