How Harvesting Has Changed Over The Years

A couple of weeks ago, I headed from central Iowa, where I live with my husband and children, “home” to western Iowa to harvest with my parents and family. 

Growing up I was basically my Dad’s right hand gal as I was one of the oldest of six children. I have three brothers and two sisters and since my brothers are all younger, I was the one in charge when it came to hauling grain.  Being able to help my Dad allowed me to appreciate the hard work and dedication that goes into farming.  However, hauling grain today is much different than it was fifteen years ago.  My Dad now has an enclosed cab tractor with an auger wagon.  I remember those cold nights hauling grain with an open cab tractor and a gravity wagon. Oh, how times have changed. New technology and equipment has certainly made it easier for farmers and allows them to be smarter about the food they produce for the world. 

My Dad is an Iowa Corn Grower member and has been farming for over 40 years.  He, too, has seen how farming and technology has changed.  “I appreciate the work that scientists put into producing a seed that creates higher yields,” said Raymond Bruck.  “Being able to feed my family and essentially the world is important to me as a farmer.”

This year, my daughter was able to enjoy harvest.  Helping at a young age is important because she can understand where our food comes from and how it is grown. After dinner, she helped feed the cattle, which was a thrilling experience for her.  The cattle are 10 times as big as she is but it didn't seem to bother her at all.  Having her help feed cattle allowed her to understand

Harvesting this year has created some challenges due to the wet spring that Iowa endured.  In Persia where my parents farm, the crops are drier than they are in central Iowa, but thankfully the yields are still good.  I’m hoping the weather stays dry over the next week so that he can continue combining corn and be finished before the snow starts falling.  Yes, that white stuff will be here before we know it.