Darrel Bahner (DSM, Region 6 – Southern)
The year of 2012 is quickly drawing to an end. It has been full of challenges. Many of the people I work with keep saying next year can’t be any worse, but it seems to be going in that direction. We have experienced two years of drought in most areas of Kansas, with some going on three tough years. Our sub-soil moisture has been depleted and a lot of farmers that have irrigation have exceeded their allocations or their wells have limited water to pump. Being the eternal optimist that farmers are, planting in the spring of 2013 will go on as usual, even though every storm that passes leaves everyone discouraged and wondering when we’ll start getting enough rain to fill ponds and replenish our sub-soil.
Mother nature has a way of surprising us and 2012 was no exception. It is amazing that the crops we planted last spring were able to survive the countless days of over 100 degree temperatures and drought and were even able to produce enough to harvest. Yields in our state were poor to good, but most thought there would be nothing. Our plant breeders at Producers Hybrids have done an incredible job of bringing products to us that handle heat, insects, disease and drought stress. I can remember the early 1980s; if our products were still like those back then we would have nothing in a year like this.
I would like to thank everyone for their business in 2012 and if you have questions about any of Producers Hybrids products or programs feel free to give me a call.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! May they be safe and joyous!
A FarmerA man stood at the pearly gates
His face was worn and old
He meekly asked the man of faith
Admission to the fold
What have you done St Peter said,
To seek admission here.
I’ve been a farmer here on earth,
For over 50 years.
The gates swung swiftly open
As he quickly touched a bell
Come in and take a harp, he said
You’ve had enough of hell
A poem that an old customer of mine gave to me years ago!
Ready For More 