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Digital Technology and Farming

farming with digital technology

Overview

Farming remains a profitable economic endeavor in the US. To state the obvious, everybody needs food in order to survive. People are now more conscious and more sensitive to health and lifestyle. In connection to this, you will see people looking for food from farms rather than taking processed food or junk. As a farmer, the prospects have never been better for you.

However, it is vulnerable to a number of challenges. These include the high cost of farming expenses, lack of labor, and the need for capital for highly-intensive projects. In such a situation, it becomes very difficult for one to run a successful farming business through over-coming such challenges. The question becomes how one can do farming in a viable and sustainable way.

One of the most viable and sustainable ways on how farmers can remain in business is through employing digital technology tools in their endeavor. This article will guide you on the importance of farming technology and how farmers can use digital technology in order to achieve optimal performance.

Importance of Digital Technology in Farming

There are several ways through which farmers can leverage on the availability of technology in their profession. To start with, farmers can use technology in order to learn about the various professional opportunities available in the US or abroad. When one is seeking a farming opportunity, one must be sure to evaluate if the project is going to bring in returns, and high returns for that matter.

Factors to consider when choosing a farming project include the capital required, the size of the farm required, the availability of labor, and the market. This can be an intensive thing to search about and it may require time. Therefore, instead of doing such a search on your own, consider the use of digital technology or a mobile app. Such an app is going to ensure that there is comprehensive comparison of the farming opportunities. With such farming technology platforms, you are going to make optimal choices through a rational decision making model.

Digital technologies can help the farmers to learn about the market and evaluate how the market is performing. Through this, they are going to understand the market prices, and how the market is performing. Whereas in some areas, the market is not difficult to find, it may be difficult in other areas.

What the use of farming technology does in seeking the market is eliminating the middlemen in the agricultural supply chain. For many years, American farmers have cried foul over the negative impact the middlemen have in theory professional lives. Then, in such a case, the best thing to do is to cut off the middlemen through using digital apps.

Every farmer understands the nightmare that comes with lack of a ready market for farming produce. This is due to the fact that farming produce, in many cases, is a perishable good. Through the use of digital technology, one is going to identify the market opportunities early enough.

Farmers do understand the importance of monitoring the weather when making farm decisions. The most important things to consider about weather include the temperatures and the rains. If the farmer is aware of the weather outside, he or she is not going to send employees to the farm to work in heavy rains.

Long term weather monitoring helps a farmer to know when to plant and when to harvest. For example, when the yields tasks too long in the rains, heavy rains may destroy an entire harvest. Similarly, specialized weather monitoring helps one to know which crops can grow in a certain area. In such cases, it is always advisable to seek the services of a professional.

The day to day expenses in the farm can be very high. The use of farming technology can help you to reduce the farming expenses. For example, instead of manual processes in handling farm records, an automated system is far much better, more accurate, and more efficient. An increasing number of farmers are appreciating the benefit of using technology in data management.

Some farmers, though not many, have decided to take part in research and development that is related to agriculture. The government and some private companies are in need of raw data and new information which they can use in improving farming practices in their jurisdiction. As a farmer, you can make use of digital technology in order to contribute to research and development. Whereas you may not be paid for such actions, you will be contributing to a better America and a better world which uses better farming practices that are more efficient.

Lastly, farming technology ensures that you have more time at your disposal. In addition to that, you are going to enjoy farming because it is not going to be tedious. Through farming technology, you can have fun in farming.

What digital technology can farmers to be more profitable and efficient

Totheshelf

Available in English and Greek, Totheshelf links the farmer with the market. It is not restricted to the US, but rather, it offers a platform where global professionals can interact and one can identify a potential market. Through Totheshelf, one is able to make a geo-targeted search within 200 km within where one is located. The following are the main information that is captured through Totheshelf:

-Description of a farming product

-The system used in the production

-Quantity of produce

-The company

-The brand

-Full names of the buyer or seller

-The price

MachineryGuide 

MachineryGuide was discovered in Budapest, Hungary, and it started commanding international attention in 2014. MachineryGuide is a precision agricultural tool. It is commonly used in small as well as medium-sized businesses, and is easy to use. It can be used in the smartphone or tablet as a precision GPS tractor system. It was one of the pioneer guidance software programs.

The features of the MachineryGuide include the following:

-A cloud service which can help in connecting the devices and applications

-BlueTooth which helps in receiving signals

-Visual section control

-It helps in farming tasks such as fertilization, spraying, and manure application

Tractor Zoom

Farmers do understand that buying new equipment can be a very expensive endeavor. Therefore, there is a need to save as much money as possible. Rather than buying of new equipment, farmers can buy old equipment. Unfortunately, the market is awash with sub-standard secondhand good, goods that are not of good quality, but the owners want to dispose them anyway.

In such a case, the best thing is to choose an app which can give you correct information on the availability of second-hand equipment. One of such options is tractor zoom. The following are the main features of tractor zoom:

-You can choose the equipment that you want based on model and function

-You will be able to know when auctioneers are having events and how you can benefit from such events

-You can get alerts on new information that you may be interested

-There is an option for the state (that means you can choose an option near you)

-Its blog will help you learn a lot about equipment and how to use them in an optimal way

-You can interact with others through the platform

AgWorld

Based in South Africa, AgWorld serves the global clientele and is similar to the layout of ISNetworld. It helps the farmers to manage their crops in an effective and professional way. Through AgWorld, you will be able to cover an entire cycle when you are growing your crops. In order to offer an efficient digital platform, AgWorld has partnered with other companies and organization such as Satamap. Its main products are AgWorld basics, planning, scheduling, and precision.

AgWorld can help you in the following ways:

-Planting of crops in selected fields

-Sharing of data with the agricultural experts who in turn offer the necessary intervention

-Creation of work orders who help in the right farming tasks

-Avoid in over-lapping of duties

-Tracking of records such as the spray records

-Helps in keeping and retracting of historical records

-Capturing data and information on important events in your farm

Climate CoLab

Farming activities have a great bearing on climate change. At the same time, when there is climate change, the farmers are one of the most affected groups of people. As a farmer, it is a noble choice and a responsibility to help in the mitigation of climate change.

Climate CoLab helps farmers to work hand in hand with the rest of the world in setting and meeting goals related to the issue of climate change. The mobile app realizes that the society is faced with complex problems which can be very detrimental to the issue of climate change. It is an open problem-solving platform where climate change experts and related professionals can exchange ideas on the best thing to do concerning climate change.

As a farmer, you can use Climate CoLab in order to carry out an action or a project that is going to help in the mitigation of climate change. You can seek to refine your proposal and seek input from fellow members. Through Climate CoLab, you can participate in various contests such as the change maker challenge.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Farming Technology

There are several factors that you should consider when choosing farming technology. To start with, you should ensure that you are going to choose a technology that you can afford. Farming expenses are already high, and you do not want to choose a technology that you cannot afford. Remember, the cost of the technology should include the cost of maintenance and not just the initial technology.

You should choose a technology platform which offers a comprehensive and absolute support. Evaluate if it will take you long to seek IT support services. At the same time, be sure to know if, in the case you need emergency services, if assistance will be provided. IT is advisable that you seek an option which is going to offer reliable support.

When choosing a technology, ensure that you choose a flexible platform. This is a platform which can be customized by the users. Each farm is going to have its unique needs, and therefore, you should choose a technology which can be adopted to your needs.

Lastly, do not choose a technology which you think might become obsolete fast. This is going to be expensive in the long-run. Instead, choose a technology which might be used for a number of years in the future.

Towards the Future

Demand of agricultural products and services is going to grow in the near future. This is due to the growth in the population of the US (through birth and immigration), and the fact that many people shy away from farming. Therefore, if you have not been using digital technology for your future, then this is the time to do so. You need to prepare yourself for the future by employing the right digital tools.

The trend in technology is that it tends to be cheaper as new technology enters the market. In almost all the cases in farming, using farming technology is going to be cheaper than the use of manual systems of agriculture. Therefore, you do not have any reason not to use farming technology.

Farming is one of the few professionals which cannot be declared redundant. Some professions in the world are facing very stiff competition, and some are going to be rendered redundant. In such a case, then, it is prudent that you invest in a profession that is going to stand the test of time.

Conclusion

As you can see from the discussion above, the importance of digital technology in farming cannot be under-estimated. By choosing to use technology, you will attain a competitive edge and you are going to stand out among your peers. Most importantly, you will do farming in a professional and efficient way. Therefore, you need to renew your commitment in the use of farming technology.

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When Would a Texas Farmer Need to Hire a Specialty Welder?

Specialty Welding

Overview

According to Texas Almanac, agriculture in Texas is associated with a number of upstream and downstream economic activities. Whereas the number of farms in Texas has decreased in recent years, practicing farmers have become more committed and vibrant in farming. Today, there is more record keeping and there is more mechanization, among other major improvements in the American agricultural landscape.

In agriculture, farming, and agri-business, one is going to be in need of welding services. As a matter of fact, farming and welding are known to go hand in hand. An astute farmer notes that welding cannot be divorced from farming. Having stated that, it is better to hire a specialty welder rather than a general welder with a focus on South Texas welder.

This article explores when a farmer need to hire a specialty welder.

When Would a Texas Farmer Need to Hire a Specialty Welder?

The breakdown of framing equipment is one of the most frustrating moments that a farmer can face. This can be worse during the time of planting and at the time of harvesting. A breakdown of equipment during the time of planting translates to delays in the same. During the time of harvesting, a breakdown is going to translate to heavy losses. If the equipment is rented, the breakdown of equipment could lead to conflict with the owner of the equipment.

There are several factors that can lead to breakdown of equipment. To start with, many farmers ignore the manual and operate the equipment on their own. The manual contains critical information on issues such as a maintenance checklist as well as calibration instructions, and therefore, it should never be ignored.

In such a scenario, the South Texas specialty welders come in handy in helping you to go back to work as soon as you can. This ensures that you do not incur heavy losses. It also ensures that you do not inconvenience others.

As a farmer, you ought to go for training on your equipment, and your employees too should take part in this process. In addition to that, the storage of equipment should be done in a safe and right away. For example, such equipment should be protected from rodents. Moreover, when the worn out parts are not replaced, then the equipment could break down.

You can use welding in the farm in order to seek a temporary solution to the problem as you look for a permanent solution. As you can imagine, the cost of hiring new equipment is very high, and the repair costs are not very low either. In addition to that, you may find it difficult to secure a repair appointment right away. In such a case, then, the best thing that you can do is to look for a temporary solution through welding as you evaluate on the best course of action.

Repairing farm equipment could be a matter of emergency. Take for instance a case where a welder is using milking machines, only for such machines to break down. In such a case, the dairy farm equipment must be patched as soon as possible. Failures to do so could translate to health consequences on the cows.

Some areas in Texas are remote and inaccessible. Typically, big chunks of farming land are not found in urban areas, but rather, in remote places. Again, many farmers are known to own big chunks of land which have been passed down the generations. Such farms are located in remote areas. In such a case, when you need a welder, you will find that it is not easy to get one. Therefore, it is advisable that you have a specialty welder near you who is going to assist you in the best way possible.

The farmer may need to dispose old equipment. If the farmer wants to sell the equipment as scrap, then the best thing to do is to consult a welder who can help in dis-jointing of parts. Some experienced welders may know where to sell the scrap at a convenient price. Though scrap metal may not fetch a good price, the money fetched is not as bad.

Farmers do invest in many types of equipment including cultivator, toothed-spade, tractor, cage wheel, cultivator, plough, tillage machine, plough, and harrow. Such equipment, in the process of work, come in direct contact with different types of soil. In such a case, then, they need constant fabrication.

Professional and innovative welding improves the aesthetics of the farm. A well-designed farm makes the family comfortable. Some farmers are tourist attraction sites, and others offer an educational platform for agricultural practice.

texas specialty welding

Factors to Consider When Hiring a Specialty Welder

The market is saturated with specialty welders. Choosing the right one can be a daunting task. Therefore, you need to evaluate several factors so that you can make an informed choice. Therefore, you need to be very careful so that you can get value for your money. You also need to make an informed decision in order to get a professional service. You can only get the right specialty welder through careful deliberation of the welding market.

You need to hire a specialty welder who has worked in the farm. Such a welder is going to have the experience to solve complex problems facing the farming industry in the US. In addition to that, such welders play an important role in helping the farmer have a viable and sustainable welding process that is going to stand the test of time. The more experienced one is in welding, the easier it is to work in the farm.

It is very important that you choose a welder who has the right certification. Different states are going to have different parameters for certification. For example, in order for one to be certified as a welder, one starts with a high school education. One then proceeds to take a formal training (either on-the-job or formal theoretical and practical classes). One then applies for certification as a welder. Individual states follow their own certification process, but whatever the route, quality of welding is compulsory and this must be proven.

When you hire a welder, be sure to ask about duty cycle. In welding, the term duty cycle refers to the percentage that a welder can operate without over-heating in every 10 minute cycle. If the duty cycle is 50 %, then the welder can operate for 5 minutes, and then rest for 5 minutes. Such factors determine the cost of the over-all work. If the welding paraphernalia is efficient, then the process will lead to optimal welding outcomes.

The price of the specialty welder does matter a lot. The total expenses of a farmer in a year can be high, and you want to reduce the cost of operations. It is therefore rational that you choose services that you can afford. Therefore, be sure to ask for quotes when you are looking for a specialty welder. However, as you try to go for lower welding prices, do not compromise on quality. If it means that you pay higher for a better quality service, then do so. Paying for a low price but with low quality will be inconsequential to your farm.

It goes without saying that you need a welder who is in close proximity to your farm. In such a case, then, he or she is going to assist you in a convenient way. This could also be a big factor when you are dealing with an emergency welding service.

The modern farmer is more conscious of the environment. He or she wants to utilize green solutions in the process of farming. The farmer is the best placed person in enhancing environmental conversation. In that scenario, then, the farmer should hire a welder who has values that are in tandem with the environmental conversation.

As a matter of fact, the welder should assist the farmer in employing energy-efficient equipment. Now that welders do understand electricity matters, they are best placed to know which equipment works for energy efficiency, and which does not. They can therefore advise you on the best choices in the market.

Your welder should be willing to take refresher courses in the field. The field of welding is dynamic, and technology keeps on changing. Technology in welding becomes better with time and more efficient, and sometimes cheaper. Therefore, the welder should be willing to keep up with the changes and be updated with the latest trends. This will give the farmer a competitive edge in the market. Again, this is going to lead to optimal farming outcomes.

How to do Welding on Farming Equipment

The specialty welder should understand what type of wear that needs attention. The three main types of wear are abrasion, the impact as well as metal-to-metal. In addition to that, the welder should identify the equipment’s working metal. If the welder is not able to know the specific steel that should be used, one should carry pout prescribed tests such as the magnetic test. Such tests will enable the welder to understand how best to do a certain job.

It is the responsibility of both the farmer and the specialty welder to purchase the right safety equipment. Welding can be a risky endeavor more so when it comes to the eyes. Moreover, one should protect himself from gases and fumes. There should be protective clothing on the eyes and the face. In welding, there is a possibility of an electric shock. In a few cases, welding could lead to a fire and an explosion. Therefore, in such a case, the best thing is to think about safety first.

The equipment that aids a specialty welder in their work includes a helmet, jacket, gloves, shielding gas, and electrodes. Equipment for welding can be purchased outright, or rented for a specific period of time. You must have such equipment in your farm, or have access to them. This is going to ensure the safety of the welder and others in the farm.

Most of the farm equipment manufacturers make use of metal inert gas (MIG) in order to carry out the right assembling of equipment, and do it in a professional way. In such a case, then, the MIG welder might be the most preferable choice. However, depending on the welding needs, the A/C or A/C-D/C welder could be a batter choice. This is because such a welding makes use of stick-type electrodes. There are other options too, and they can be utilized for your welding needs.

You need to evaluate if you need to bring the welder to your farm, or you need to take the piece of equipment to be repaired to the welder. Having a welder come to your farm might be more convenient but could be cheaper. Taking the equipment to the welder could me cheaper but cumbersome.

Traditionally, there are very few women in the welding industry in the US. However, as a farmer, you need to be an equal opportunity employer. Do not let your judgment be eroded by factors such as gender and age. Thus, whoever approaches you for welding work; check on factors such as skills, experience, and willingness to adapt to a new and challenging environment. What is important is how to get the right professional for your South Texas specialty welder.

texas specialty welding

Conclusion

As a farmer, you need to have long-term and concrete plan on how to manage welding needs in your farm. When you have long-term plans, you are going to realize that such plans are going to be cheaper in the end. In addition to that, preparation will ensure that you are prepared not to interrupt farming duties.

By participating in farming, you are feeding America, you are building America, you are employing citizens and residents of the country, and you are supporting big and small businesses in the agricultural supply chain. Overall, South Texas specialty welders will help you achieve your farming objective.

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Top Produced Crops in the United States

Top Produced Crops in the United States

 

]There are those who consider the USA to be one of the greatest if not the greatest countries that have existed in our known history. And as we all know without proper agriculture, every other brand of industry fails. Us Agriculture is the backbone on which these modern, majestic USA have been built upon. That hasn’t changed. Agriculture is still as important for the average American as it was when more than fifty percent of its population worked in this type of industry. Today that number is quite smaller, but the profits grow non the less.

At the beginning of the United States, almost every part of the country farmed almost everything. With time certain regions started to specialize. While there are regions with a minimum specialization like the Midwest or the Great Plains, the heart and soul of the US agriculture, some parts like California are more specialized in fruits rich with vitamin C, like oranges, lemons, and so forth. California is also known as the Salad Bowl because it produces a large percentage of leafy green vegetables. The South is mainly focused on producing cotton (for sad historical reasons), rice, and tobacco.

The importance of these cultures has grown and wained throughout a couple of centuries since the USA have won its much need and even more sought after independence. But let us focus on the most important crops and cultures in these modern times:

  1. Corn
  2. Soybeans
  3. Wheat
  4. Sugar Beet
  5. Potatoes
  6. Tomatoes
  7. Cotton
  8. Nuts
  9. Fruits
  10. Tobacco
  11. Barley
  12. Hay

Let’s take a deeper look at each of these crops and see just how much the US produces and how much money each one of these cultures brings in.

1 Corn

Corn is the king of the crops in US Agriculture. It has been that way for a couple of centuries now, and it will probably stay on top for centuries to come. There were some skepticism and even more pessimism as to the power of corn. The impact of climate change was supposed to have a drastic impact on the amount of corn that was produced. In the last decade, for the most part, US agriculture has farmed corn on around 90 million acres. Some thought that that number will decrease. But the opposite has begun to happen. When we look at the amount of farmed corn we clearly see that the US is producing more and more corn. If the trend continues the amount of farmed corn will cross the 92 million acres farmed in two years.

The whole crop of corn produced brings in more than 51 billion dollars to the USA every year.

2 Soybeans

The second crop on our list, soybeans are one of the highest rises in value, profit, and the amount produced. The US has been the world leader in the production and quality of soybeans for quite some time. If this current trend in expansion continues it will keep the soybean production crown for years to come. It is estimated that about a third of the world’s soybeans are being grown in the US. Close to 45 percent of the soybeans produced are being exported. The biggest export target continues to be China. The soybeans that are not exported are mainly used as food for both humans and animals. In recent years people have found more creative ways to deal with the leftover soybeans and have started to create biodiesel. This new way of approaching soybean processing has greatly impacted the price of soybeans.

US wheat production

3 Wheat

Third on our list of top crops produced in the US is a staple of the US agriculture, but also a staple of the majority of western agricultures as well – wheat. Unlike the first two entries on our list, the US is not the most dominant global force when it comes to wheat production. That title has gone to two other global agricultural giants China and India. Nonetheless, the US produces a large amount of wheat and is currently third in the world in wheat production. Every year the US agriculture produces close to 60 million tons. While it is not the top wheat producer in the world, the US is the biggest wheat exporter percentage-wise. Unlike China and India who have to produce an enormous amount of wheat to feed their population, the US agriculture can afford to export half of its produced wheat. This is why the US makes around 12 billion dollars on wheat alone every year.

4 Sugar Beet

The sugar industry in the USA is huge. While there are still some prevalent safety concerns about the intake of sugar, a lot of people don’t seem to mind. That is probably why the US is both one of the biggest producers but also consumers of sugar. Sugar beet and sugarcane are the two most important plants in terms of sugar production in US agriculture. The majority of sugar produced falls to the sugar beet. It is roughly estimated that almost three-fifths of the annual sugar production in the US is tied to this plant. The other two-fifths falls on the sugarcane. Much like with wheat production, the US takes the bronze medal. It is behind France and Russia who produce more than the USA. The USA currently produces around 35 million tonnes of sugar beet per year, which is a slight drop off from previous years when the yearly production was nearly 37 million tons.

5 Potatoes

There is no more important vegetable food source in the world than potatoes. Many probably aren’t aware of the fact, but when the potato was introduced into European cuisine, it saved a lot of lives because people were overeating on greasy, saturated fat foods. The US is one of the leading potato growers in the world. Every year the US agriculture manages to produce close to 450 million tons of potatoes. But two American states carry most of the burden in potato production. These two states are Idaho and Washington. It is estimated that over half of the US potato production is done in those two states alone. Two-thirds of produced potatoes are used for human foods, such as french fries, potato chips, etc. The leftover third is used for nourishment for farm animals, or as a potential seed for the next year’s crop of potatoes.

6 Tomatoes

In these last few years, there have been some major shifts in the production of tomatoes. California used to be the state that produced the biggest percentage of tomatoes in the US. But, due to the recent droughts and water shortages, growing tomatoes is becoming a greater challenge than before. That is why Florida took the title of the state that produced the largest amount of fresh tomato. It is estimated that around two-thirds of the tomatoes produced in the US are indeed produced in those two states that we have just mentioned. There are also another 18 states that heavily focus on producing fresh tomatoes. Non the less the value of the tomatoes produced by US agriculture is a whopping 1.6 billion US dollars every year.

7 Cotton

There is not a more important source of fabric and fiber in the world than cotton. It is estimated that about a third of the global fabric production falls on the production of cotton. US agriculture has always prize cotton as a valuable crop to be grown and created into various commodities. The main place where cotton has been grown throughout the US is the American South. Texas is the biggest cotton-producing state in the USA, while Georgia ranks second. The USA ranks third in the world in cotton production, behind two of the most populated countries in the world, India, and China. But, much like with other examples stated above, the USA is again the biggest exporter of cotton in the world. The value of the produced cotton in the US is around 5 billion dollars.

United States Cash Crop

8 Nuts

Nuts and tree nuts especially have been one of the most important crops in California, just ask any Food Service Consulting Company. Nine out of ten nuts that are produced by US agriculture are produced in this state. Each year the USA produces between 2.5 and 3 billion tonnes of nuts. The most popular nut cultures that are grown in the USA are:

  1. Almonds – Produced in California exclusively. Annual production is worth around 2 billion dollars. The USA is the leading producer of almonds in the world with every 4 out of 5 almonds produced in the USA
  2. Chestnuts – The chestnut situation is in a way the reversal of the almond situation. The US has some of the best climate conditions to grow chestnuts but they only amount to one percent of its yearly nut production.
  3. Peanuts – Probably the leader in widespread production between the various nut families in the US. It is grown commercially all throughout the country. Every year between 5 and 7 million pounds of peanuts are produced in the USA.
  4. Walnuts – There are two distinct sorts of walnuts that are grown in the USA. Those two sorts are the English Walnut and the Black Walnut. The majority of the walnuts grown in the US are English Walnuts. Close to 200 000 tones of English Walnuts are produced in the USA every single year
  5. Pistachios – Almost all pistachios produced in the USA are produced in California. Every year the production peaks at around 600 million pounds of pistachios.

9 Rice

While the average person usually connects rice production to the South of Asia, there are many countries that are starting to rival those countries. Italy in Europe is one such example, but also US agriculture. Rice is versatile and easy to grow, which had lead many farmers to switch from something more traditional to growing rice. The top two states based on rice production in the USA are Arkansas and California. Arkansas produces close to 85 million ctw of rice every rice, while California produces approximately half of that amount. The USA is also one of the leading global exporters of rice. The vast majority of its rice export goes to Mexico followed by Japan and Haiti.

10 Tobacco

There isn’t a crop in the USA that has been hit harder than tobacco. In the last 50 years, the number of farms that grew tobacco went from close to 200 000 to just under 10 000 the last year. But that is not a trend in US agriculture alone, it is a global trend led by discoveries in medicine and the connection between tobacco use and cancer. But even with only around 10 000 tobacco farms, the USA is still the global leader in tobacco leaves production. In overall tobacco production, the USA is currently in fourth place. Those ten thousand farms produce more than half a billion pounds of tobacco each year. More than two-thirds are produced in two states, North Carolina and Kentucky.

11 Barley

The production of barley is not so prevalent all over the US. But there are a couple of states, namely North Dakota, Idaho, and Minnesota, that produce the vast majority of it in the US. Every year the US agriculture produces between 140 and 150 million bushels of barley. Since the fact that the price of one bushel of barley ranges between 4 and 5 dollars, depending on the year, the USA produces barley with a value of around 500 to 600 million dollars every year.

12 Hay

Last but not least on our list is hay. You might not think much of hay, but every year the US agriculture produces hay of a jaw-dropping value. Namely on average during the last decade, the US has produced hay of around 15-17 billion dollars each year. The top states per hay production in the USA are:

  1. Texas with close to 8.5 million tones of hay
  2. Nebraska
  3. South Dakota
  4. California
  5. Montana

Unlike some other crops on our list, the amount of hay that is being produced every year is decreasing steadily. Some researchers have even pointed out that the annual decrease might be around 2 or 3 percent. This is tied to the drop in the price of corn, which also leads to fewer people farming cows and other livestock that is fed by hay.

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How Urban Farming can Make a Difference In Los Angeles

urban farming

 

If you live in Los Angeles, you can grow healthier and more affordable foods at home. And it doesn’t have to be hard – even with that limited space you have. In this post, we’ll cover how urban farming can make a difference in Los Angeles. And why you should give it a shot.

But first things first.

What is urban farming?

This is the process of growing food in a heavily populated city. Whether you want to set up a personal garden or grow fresh produce, Los Angeles is a sure bet.

Are you curious about the benefits of urban farming?

Read on.

Promoting a healthy community

Urban Farming increases access to healthy and affordable produce. You also get a unique opportunity to learn about nutrition. Also, numerous urban programs help you to engage the locals on the benefits of eating a healthy diet. Growing your food means access to nutritious foods like herbs, vegetables, and fruits.

And with the advancement of technology, you can now grow food where it was previously impossible. This explains why Los Angeles urban farming is a viable option, especially in places where space is limited. It’s not surprising to find that some people have embraced urban agriculture.

The health benefits of producing rich food are almost unbeatable. They include:

  • Vegetables are rich in fiber
  • You get foods rich in folate, potassium, and essential vitamins
  • Vegetables are cholesterol-free

When you go to the local grocery store, you have little control over the food you get. But with urban farming, you get full control of the harvesting time, light exposure, growing conditions, etc. Why go for that heavily a bruised carrot?

Can reduce food insecurity

Urban farming can allow you to grow and harvest healthy food. You not only conserve land but also reduce carbon footprints. While growing food in the city brings sustainable solutions, it also helps to mitigate the challenges.

Think about it – urban farming can be as little as setting up an outdoor rooftop. You can use also use indoor vertical farms or UV lighting to mimic the effects of the sun.

Food insecurity is not a concept that exists in isolation. It can lead to health problems, low wages, poor housing, etc. Some of the tips that can be used to reduce food insecurity include:

  • Reduce food waste
  • Subsurface irrigation
  • Close the yield gap

To bring green spaces to an urban area

Los Angeles hosts many people, which is evident with the less green spaces. There’s always a consensus when people should reclaim nature. It’s no wonder some cities are viewed as places where true nature ends. And it’s within such cities that contemporary solutions of how to live a sustainable life are found. When growing cities put too much pressure on common agricultural practices, it leads to:

  • Costly processing
  • Complex food supply chains
  • Increased food insecurity
  • Prolonged distribution networks

With this in mind, Los Angeles Urban Farming can bring deep connections to the global economy. That’s not all – you get a sense of belonging.

Improves quality of life

Los Angeles urban farming fosters a connection with nature and can lead to better wellbeing. Numerous studies have also shown that cities that practice farming report fewer respiratory problems and cardiovascular diseases.

Localized food production means that it travels less from the farm to the table. Farmers also adopt environmentally-friendly fertilizers – no use of chemicals or pesticides.

That’s not all. Urban farming can give you control over the conditions, water, and compost you want to use. You can also grow unique heirloom varieties that may be susceptible to pests and diseases. Of course, you can pick fresh fruits and vegetables as soon as they are ready. You don’t have to worry about shelf life.

urban farming Los Angeles

Grow food all year round

Urban farming gives so many options as long as you have space. You can go for rooftop gardening, hydroponic gardening, or just container gardening. In addition to that, you don’t have to worry about drought and water.

You also have control over the location. It’s up to you to choose what you want to grow, how, and where you wish to grow. It’s worth mentioning that urban farming uses 90% less water than traditional farming methods.

To ensure you have enough food supply, you should keep a few things in mind. The most critical factor in choosing the right plants for urban farming. If you want to grow foods for personal use, you can start with vegetables. The best have a shorter growth period and ensures maximum profit. Some of the foods you can plant during spring include:

  • Lettuce
  • Celery
  • Spinach
  • Beets
  • Cucumbers

If you have a good watering system, you can plant vegetables that extend to the spring season. You can also plant kales, peppers, or beans. Other vegetables you can try during winter are:

  • Turnips
  • Broccoli
  • Cauliflowers
  • Cabbage
  • Peas

Don’t be afraid to grow herbs alongside your vegetables. Some of the best herbs to consider are Dill, thyme, lavender, sage, and oregano.

Tips to help you grow more in your garden

Well, you want to grow foods that your family loves to eat. Some of the tips that will prevent your veggies from hogging include:

  • Veggies that occupy a lot of space can be grown vertically
  • You should separate the space hogs – use separate containers to plant veggies and herbs.
  • Create steps to ensure all plants get the same amount of sunshine
  • Use hanging baskets on the porch, deck, and balcony

Can boost the local economy

Local food systems have a positive effect on the economy. In other words, more restaurants and schools will seek local food. This is good news for businesses and entrepreneurs. Even better, Los Angeles urban farming can lead to employment. And as the local activities rise, more money circulates within the city.

Urban farming can help you learn a new skill. Most people who live in urban areas have forgotten where their food comes from. You never know – maybe you can develop a new farming method.

If you don’t have the skills to start urban farming, you can get assistance from the local garden community council. A mentor can also help with all matters that relate to managing a garden.

Improves thermal insulation in buildings

Just like other cities in the Western world, most buildings in Los Angeles have rooftops and are a contributor to the urban plight. If you plant vegetables on the rooftop, you’ll notice colder temperatures in summer months and greater warmth in cold months. From a statistical standpoint, it’s estimated that urban farming reduces energy consumption in winter by 10%, and 25% in summer.

Another technique used is vertical farming. It involves the use of small trays where crops are stacked in LEDs. You could have a large number of crops enclosed all year round. And thanks to the constant supply of light, growing such plants require less water.

You may also have heard of floating farms. While this can be a headache in the cities, some people consider it part of their Los Angeles urban farming. They require more room than vegetables.

Saves money

It’s expensive to live in a city. And the large portion of the money you use is usually on food. Did you know that healthy fruits and vegetables cost less than readily available junk food? Just imagine if you can manage to grow lots of food for your family. Sounds fun, doesn’t it? This will not only help to create jobs for other people in the neighborhood but also saves money in the long run.

Maybe you’re worried about the limited space. If you’re thinking about urban farming, you should pay attention to the seasons and planting schedules. Also, you should select the right plants and cycles that best suit your area.

Can help the local demand

If there’s a high demand for local food, you can supply the demand. Perhaps. The best approach is to focus on trendy food. But, the key to success is proper planning. What do you want to accomplish? If you want to make a profit, you should focus on plants that give high yields.

Similarly, if you want to plant crops that meet the local demand and still earn a high profit, you should consider personal taste.

The location also matters. The way you position your plants will determine how much sunlight gets to the plants. If you’re in an area that receives lots of sunlight, you should erect a shade. A better approach is to learn about the gardens in the neighborhood and find one with the right fit.

How about the planting method? If you want to plant on the deck or patio, you should select the right containers.

Don’t forget to gather the supplies – potting soil, fertilizers, and containers to grow the herbs. You also need a trowel. After that, you should decide on the population you want to feed. This information will help you decide on the number of seedlings to plant.

Can bring social benefits

There are many social benefits of urban farming. There’s indeed some evidence that this type of farming increases social bonds. It also enhances integration to otherwise segregated groups.

Los Angeles has programs that teach people about environmental stewardship. Besides community cohesion, you get improved neighborhood aesthetics and increased property values.

When people spend their time farming, the crime rate goes lower – this can be a safe environment for kids. Urban farming also allows you to create a bigger picture. It’s all about making a better world and developing larger cities.

Ecological benefits

Urban agriculture helps to protect scarce species of plants, flowers, and vegetables. On top of that, green spaces can provide a pleasant smell in the city. Another benefit of Los Angeles urban farming is that it can reduce pollutants to boost air quality.

To boost international business

Urban farming can be beneficial to all people involved. If you pursue large scale farming, you should take advantage of the technology. And when urban families become self-reliant, international investors come in, just be careful and make sure you have a good ADR Attorney Los Angeles on your side before taking on investors. This also leads to the creation of jobs and increased taxes for urban development.

Future food security

Los Angeles urban farming helps to boost future food security. In recent years, many diseases have affected the urban environment. This has further led to an increase in water-borne diseases, allergies, diabetes, etc. Urban agriculture has also lead to the provision of healthy and safe food.

Sustainable water management

When it rains, the water is retained in the cities. If you can embrace Los Angeles urban farming, green roofs can absorb rainwater to reduce the collapse of the sewer systems. This also eliminates pathogens that can lead to diseases.

To mitigate the effects of global warming

Let’s face it: global warming is a catastrophic threat. Through Los Angeles urban farming, people can mitigate the effects of gases trapped in the atmosphere. Plus farming operations like crop rotation, use of cover crops, and crop production systems can improve soil health. You may be curious why most farmers continue to use traditional agricultural practices even in the city.

LA urban farm

What are the common approaches to urban farming?

Los Angeles Urban farming can be done in almost any part of the city. It can also be practiced in:

  • Schools
  • Public parks
  • Restaurants
  • And anywhere else you think of

If the weather outside is not conducive, you can still create a stable pest-free environment. For example, you can use container farms. And because they take up small space, you can use them anywhere. Also, they come with special systems that can help with climate control, lighting, etc.

In the heart of the city, rooftop space comes at a premium. If you spot such an area, it’s a largely underused resource. You must talk to the owner of the building to see what he can allow you to use. You have to be careful about the kind of load the rooftop can support.

Other farming techniques that can help you engage in a successful venture include:

  • Hydroponics – the plants are grown in water without soil. The essential nutrients must be added before you immerse the plants in water.
  • Vertical farming
  • Backyard gardens

Final thoughts

If you live in a city – growing food doesn’t have to be expensive. Los Angeles urban farming can help you to sustainably grow your fruits and vegetable. It’s a way of living a healthier lifestyle and generating profit.

We all deserve to be happy, and so should you.

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The importance of Recycling for a Farm

recycling for a farm

 

Overview

The American agricultural industry plays an important role in feeding the US and the world. However, there are inherent and systemic challenges that face the raw agricultural process and the agricultural lifecycle. One of these challenges is agricultural waste.

The term agricultural waste refers to residues from growing and processing of dairy products, fruits, crops, mean, and poultry. Agricultural waste can be in the form of slurries, solid, and liquid.

The commitment to ensure that waste is properly disposed is not a mandate of the farmers, but of the American and global population. Therefore, the farmers are not alone in this endeavor. One of the most efficient ways of waste management is recycling.

This article is going to guide you on the importance of recycling in your farm.

Types of Waste Materials

There are many types of waste materials that farmers are going to encounter at one time or the other. These include bags, plastic, silage wrap, netting, and traditional bags. Other types of waste include slaughterhouse waste, cow dung, and manure.

The principle behind aquaponics is the usage of effluent from fishing ponds in order to feed the plants. There is treatment of water by the plants where nitrogen as well as phosphorus are removed. The waste provided by the fish farm is a form of fertilizer. Therefore, this waste does not pollute the environment, but rather, it is recycled early enough.

Aquaponics is common in the US and Australia. It is also common in arid areas where water is not common. In addition to that, farmers is urban areas may appreciate the principle of aquaponics due to land being expensive and the fact that land is generally small in size.

The importance of Recycling for a Farm

By supporting recycling, you are actually giving others an employment opportunity. Waste management initiatives employ thousands of employees all over the country. The industry is growing in leaps and bounds, thus offering a promising future. By giving work to such individuals, then you are supporting the American community.

Recycling is viewed as the greater part of sustainability and social responsibility. Organic waste is a reliable source of fertilizers. Therefore, such a strategy is going to save a lot of money in fertilizer. Again, some modern farmers are thinking about how to replace the conventional chemicals due to the disadvantages that they pose.

There is a strong correlation between the use of recycling and climate change. There are multiple factors that contribute to the phenomenon of climate change, with the degradation of the environment being the most pronounced. By cleaning up the environment, then you are playing a critical part in the mitigation of climate change.

Recycling ensures that there is no accumulation of general farm waste, dead stock, and waste from pesticides. This can attract the pests, which in turn, do spread the diseases. This could harm you, your family, employees, and animal life.

recycle at a farm

The Question of Plastics

Environmentalists have cried foul over the use of plastics in the US. Despite advancement in technology, there are no viable solutions which can be used to replace plastics in an affordable way. Again, the business community has cried foul over the limitations on the use of plastic bags stating that it affects their businesses. Accumulation of plastics in the US has affected eco-system functioning as well as the landfills.

Unfortunately, a big blame on the accumulation of plastic goes to American farms, including the small farms. Elizabeth Grossman, writing for Ensia, says that sources of plastic in farms include PVC water pipes, plastics sacks, and irrigation tapes. Other sources of plastic include wrapping of bales, covering of greenhouses, and storing of pesticides.

Naturally, the large farms are going to produce far more waste. Gene Jones, commenting from Southern Waste Information Exchange, states that the US agricultural sector alone contributes to 1 billion pounds of plastic waste. Such a big amount of waste is going to be counter-productive to the efforts of environmental conservation.

The good thing is that American farmers have dropped some habits such as burying of plastic and burning of plastic. This is after seeing the negative effects that such habits have over the environment. Therefore, recycling is the most viable option of managing the issue of plastic waste in the country. In the current American market, only 10 % of the plastic waste is recycled. American farmers should also consider using biodegradable waste.

Livestock and Recycling

The livestock industry is a source of odor, pathogens, and gases. Therefore, managing such pollutants will play a critical role in protecting the environment. The good thing is that livestock waste can be used to support crop production.

Manure is perhaps a livestock waste product which can be used to support crop production. Years of using fertilizers in farms have shown that fertilizer is not the best product to use in American farms due to its negative effect on the farms. With years of the use of fertilizer, the quality of the soil becomes weaker with time. In addition to that, the extra fertilizer is washed downstream thereby contributing to pollution of the environment.

The US can borrow from India and China which have mastered the art of biogas production in order to meet the needs of their big production. Biogas is not only efficient and clean, but also a renewable source of energy.

As a farmer, you can think about where you can sell livestock waste, and the market could be willing to buy the same. If you are looking for a buyer, you need to wait for your waste to pile up, and sell it in bulk.

Companies in the natural gas industry are engaging farmers in order to buy waste from their farms. This is an effort to find a replacement for natural gas. In other words, manure could become a gold mine in the future as Americans seek alternative sources of income, and these are opportunities that you can take advantage of.

Best Practices

The best thing is to work hand in hand with the Municipal Council in order to ensure the proper management of waste. You will find that some services are going to be offered free of charge.

There are non-profit organizations which work hand in hand with the agricultural industry in order to enhance recycling of waste in farms. Such non-profit organizations can help you in the collection of waste products such as pesticide jugs.

You need to be very careful about the safety of the organic waste. It has been reported that organic waste could contain heavy metals. There are two main sources of heavy metals in the USA: urban areas and the farms. Heavy metals are less than 0.1 % on earth, but they are known to have a devastating effect on humans and animal life. The paradox of heavy metals is that they are very important to life, but when they exceed a certain pre-determined level, they are toxic. Examples of heavy metals include lead, copper, zinc, and cadmium.

You cannot have a successful recycling strategy in isolation. If your farm is free from waste, and the surrounding areas are not, then such an initiative is not going to be consequential. The best thing is to collaborate with your neighbors and the community at large.

It is very important to understand that recycling of agricultural waste can be an expensive process. Therefore, farmers should be sure to incorporate that cost in the budget. The good news is that recycling is equally rewarding and it carries a high cost of return on investment.

The following three words could form an effective mantra for handling farming wastes:

-Reduce

-Reuse

-Recycle

Examples of farming practices that support reducing and recycling of waste include the following:

-Making silage with the use of a chopper baler. This enables one to use fewer bales

-Rapid wilting in preparing silage leads to better concentration of sugar as well as a drastic improvement in the dry matter

-Buy livestock feeds in bulk in order to make less use of plastic bags

-You should consider re-using your seed bags

farm recycling laws

Recycling and the Law

Where the law might not require you to recycle all the waste, the law will not allow you to dispose waste as you want it. For example, in Nashville Recycling any actions regarding waste disposal must be done in the spirit of the protection of the community. The government will not take it kindly when it knows that your behavior is affecting animal life, marine life, and other people’s lives.

The law keeps on changing. Therefore, check with your state and municipal authorities on what the law saying. It is your responsibility to be responsible about what the law says concerning your profession or niche.

The Help of a Professional

It is possible for you to have a Do It Yourself (DIY), in recycling. After all, recycling could be a part of the day to day work. However, in order to do a better job, think about seeking the advice and services of a professional. Whereas you are good at farming, you may not be good in activities such as recycling which is a science.

When seeking a service in agricultural waste and recycling services, think about insisting on a customized and tailor-made service. Different farms are going to be in need of different agricultural services. A one-size fits all strategy is not going to work for your agri-business and it is inconsequential.

Agriculture comes with its set of expenses, and you need to make informed decisions concerning the cost. Cost containment is a critical skill of a farming manager. Remember that you should only pay for the products and the services that you need.

Professionals have the relevant expertise and experience which they can bring in to your farm in order to help you in your recycling. You may not be able to solve complex problems that the recycling industry poses to a farmer. In addition to that, you may not be able to have a deep knowledge in recycling and you may not employ the best practices.

Towards the Future

The future is going to bring better opportunities for the recycling of waste in farms. This is due to better technological solutions and more opportunities in research and development. It is therefore important that American farmers position themselves for these opportunities and take advantage of them as soon as they are rolled out.

In the future, the country is going to appreciate the American farmers more. More people are shying away from farming with few replacements. As the older generation continues to age, and the younger generation preferring other professions, then, American farmers will have more economic opportunities and less competition. The population is increasing, and therefore, there is a need to seek solutions towards the best way of feeding the population.

Research needs to be carried out on more effective use of biogas. It has been reported that biogas could, with better refining techniques, replace crude oil. Whereas this is an ambitious objective, the viability of the idea cannot be entirely ruled out. Such advancement takes long to initiate, but it does achieve a lot in the long run.

The future of any industry in the US heavily depends on the research and development that actors involved in the industry undertake. This is majorly a responsibility of the government and the private sector. However, as a farmer, you can still participate in research and development through the following:

-Making observations on peculiar characteristics that your farm faces

-Filling out surveys and being truthful

-Working hand in hand with authorities in order to identify problematic areas in agriculture

-Writing articles about farming (and you could be paid for it)

Conclusion

The importance of recycling in farming cannot be under-estimated. It is beneficial to the farmers and the country as a whole. As a farmer, recycling should be part and parcel of the farming process. If you follow best practices, you will definitely reap the rewards that come with recycling.

 

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Living Labs initiative in Manitoba nets nearly $6 million in funding

A new initiative, launched within the main watershed zones in Manitoba, will further develop technologies and best management practices to give Manitoban farmers tools to adjust to climate change following a major funding injection announced Wednesday. On behalf of Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau, MP for Winnipeg South Centre Jim Carr announced up to $5.9 million for… Read More