Âť Introducing our latest tractor package deal. Featuring a heated cab and snow blower, learn more on page 5.
Âť Holy Crap! I Married A Farmer! Nicole (Holland) Burke shares her new perspective as a farm wife on page 6.
Mother Nature produced a challenging year for farming in 2019. It seems like we had three different planting seasons that lasted into early summer. This will add up to a different harvest season for everyone, but I think we are all up to the challenge of making the best of it. It has been a busy year in the turf business – selling many new zeroturn mowers, lawn mowers and compact tractors with loaders. The grass started out growing fast, slowed down for a couple weeks and has greened up again with the latest rains, and we are busy keeping up with mowing every week now. Our service departments have been busy with combine inspections and setting up new sold combines and heads and general tractor repair. Our parts departments are busy getting ready for fall by putting away the harvest stock orders, so we will be ready when you need parts. Our sales departments have been taking
orders for next year for planters, spring tillage and 2020 new combines and heads. We have new Vertical Tillage tools, Disk Rippers and High-Speed Disks on hand, ready to deliver for this fall. Come in and let us know how we can service your farming operation now and in the future. As always, we appreciate your business!
Todd, President Holland & Sons, Inc.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT Name: Matt Miller Position: Service Technician and Truck Driver, Princeton Years of Service: 12 Years First Job: Mowing yards in town Favorite Part of the Job: The people, we have an awesome group to work with.
Favorite Equipment to Work On: Combines and planters, especially once we are in the field. What is an average day like at Holland’s? We are usually busy, but still have some fun. What got you interested in this field? Working on different things with my dad and grandpa when I was a kid. Town: Princeton, Illinois Favorite Food: Anything meat and potatoes, I’m not real picky.
Favorite Restaurant: Lambert’s Cafe, Sikeston, Missouri Favorite Movie: El Dorado Hobbies: Farming, working on and working with old tractors and equipment Something people would be surprised to know: Not really – what you see is what you get. Words that Best Describe You: Stubborn, Old Fashioned
“I work on a lot of combines and planters,
but I really like the variety of things we do. You never know what’s next some days. You could be working on a planter one minute, then off to pick up a tractor with the truck the next. You’re always learning, and there is always something new.” — Matt Miller
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Name: Matt Jordal Position: Service Advisor, Mendota Town: A few miles northwest of Ashton on a small farm. Family: My wife’s name is Leah, and we have been happily married for 11 years. We have twins, Ellie and Henry. They are 2 ½ years old. Previous work experience: My most recent work experience was teaching at Universal Technical Institute in Lisle, IL. I taught classes in heavy duty diesel engine operation, fuel system operation/diagnostics, diesel engine electronic controls, diesel engine aftertreatment operation/diagnostics, and an introduction to hydraulics course. Prior to that, I taught at Kishwaukee College in Diesel Power Technology. Prior to and while teaching at Kishwaukee College, I repaired ag equipment and restored antique tractors as a side business. I’ve restored tractors as small as a Farmall Cub or John Deere L, and tractors as large as International 806s and John Deere 4020s. Many restorations were very involved; every nut and bolt came out and the tractor was completely disassembled, components rebuilt and painted. Then the tractor was put nearly completely back together and painted as a complete unit, as most of them were when they were originally built. Any work experience in the agricultural industry? I worked for almost eight years as a service tech at DeKalb Implement Co. in Kings. I have also repaired and built equipment for my own farming operation since I was in high school. College: I attended Kishwaukee College and graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Diesel Power Technology. Any farming background? I have been involved with the ag industry since I was old enough to walk. My dad and I currently farm roughly 130 acres – 100 of it is corn and soybeans, and the remaining acres are hay and wheat, mainly for the straw. I also custom bale hay and straw for a few neighbors in the area. Why did you choose Holland and Sons? An opportunity presented itself that I felt would be a good fit with my prior experience and career aspirations. Hobbies: I have a few old tractors, including a 1950 Farmall M Diesel, 1942 Farmall H, and 6 old hit n’ miss style engines I occasionally have taken to shows in the area. I also have a mostly wood six hole Sandwich corn sheller built in the late 1920s that I fixed up. I have set it up and shelled corn with it in Sandwich and at the show in Franklin Grove.
FEATURED EQUIPMENT
2016 John Deere 4052R (Stk#140969) 1296 Hrs, H180 Loader, eHydro, R3 Tires, Dual Mid SCVs
Mendota, IL (M) (815) 539-6724 Princeton, IL (P) (815) 875-3838 Dixon, IL (D) (815) 288-4441
2017 John Deere 5045E 2016 John Deere 825i S4 (Stk#142429) Very Low (Stk# 143198) 1338 Hrs, Hours! 15!!, 2WD, 9F/3R 4WD, 4-Seater, Power SyncShuttle, R1 Tires Steering, Poly Roof
2012 John Deere 825i (Stk#142912) 555 Hrs, 4WD, Camo Roof, Power & Protection Package
$25,495 (G)
$17,995 (G)
$12,995 (M)
$9,295 (G)
2018 John Deere X758 (Stk#141881) 131 Hrs, AWD, 54” AutoConnect Deck, Warranty 2022
2018 John Deere X750 (Stk#142969) 65 Hrs, 2WD, 60” Drive-Over Deck, Warranty 2022
2015 John Deere X310 (Stk#143534) 216 Hrs, 2WD, Power Steering, Power Lift, 42” Deck
2014 John Deere X500 (Stk#142794) 477 Hrs, 24 HP Gas, Manual 2Wheel Steer, 54” Deck
$11,395 (F)
$9,995 (M)
$2,495 (M)
$3,495 (G)
Geneseo, IL (G) (309) 944-2101 Freeport, IL (F) (815) 233-1216
2017 John Deere Z540R (Stk#143334) 49 Hrs, 24 HP Gas, 60” Deck, Warranty Until 2022
2017 John Deere Z915E (Stk#143675) 43 Hrs, 25 HP Gas Engine, 48” Deck, Iso Seat
2018 John Deere Z930M (Stk#141781) 117 Hrs, Gas, Suspension Seat, 54” 7-Iron Mower Deck
2018 John Deere Z997R (Stk#143360) 50 Hrs, 37.4 HP Diesel, Electric Lift, 72” 7-Iron Deck
$4,895 (G)
$5,995 (G)
$7,295 (G)
$17,995 (G)
2017 Simplicity Conquest (Stk#142426) 138 Hrs, 25 HP, 52” Deck
Massey Ferguson 30B (Stk#143421) 2WD, Gear, Loader, Rear Blade
Ford 5000 (Stk#143849) 2009 Hrs, 2WD, Gear
2013 Simplicity Broadmoor (Stk#143414) 50” Deck, Snowblower
$4,595 (F)
$4,995 (M)
$6,995 (D)
$3,495 (G)
Visit www.hollandandsons.com for more...
PROPERTY OWNER Winter is coming… Say goodbye to your shovel with one of our two new snow ready packages!
By Klint Rice, Small Ag & Turf Sales Manager It has been an interesting year, to say the least. The weather persisted in a wet winter pattern well through the spring and early summer. That had all of us taxing our mowing equipment as we tried to keep our lawns maintained around the wet weather. Then, as expected, the rain shut off. Everyone caught their breath and now fall is already around the corner. Fall can be the most beautiful time of the year, with crisp, cool mornings hopefully combined with some drier air. That gives us all more time to enjoy outdoor living spaces. As you enjoy these days, prepare yourself for the weather that lies ahead. Finishing fall clean-up can be a breeze with the addition of a lawn sweeper or bagger for your lawn or garden tractor. Our sales staff specializes in helping you solve your landscape needs. Winter approaches As winter draws near, being prepared can remove a lot of stress from your already busy life. We have a full inventory of Honda walk-behind snowblowers – single-stage and two-stage, as
well as models with electric start. Honda is a proven name and their snow products are some of the best. Visit any of our five locations to check out these snowblowers in person. Adding snow equipment to any riding lawn equipment is easy. Snow blades and snow blowers can make winter clean-up simple and more fun, and it also gives your equipment investment a year-round purpose. As you prepare for winter, stop in to see one of our sales professionals and explore what will fit on your machine. We stock many items, plus we may even have something in our used inventory to help save you a few bucks. For larger property owners, please stop in and see the new factory installed cab on the John Deere 1025R and the 2025R compact tractors. Talk about winter comfort: these machines have it. Imagine blowing snow while sitting in the warm cab enjoying the view. These new cab machines will be available for sale starting in November. Have a safe fall. Don’t stress over any upcoming landscape chores, conquer them with the help of your local John Deere dealer Holland and Sons.
1023E Tractor + 120R Loader + 54D Mower Deck + 60" Front Blade
$210 per month
1025R Tractor + Heated Cab + 120R Loader + 60D AutoConnect Deck + 47" Snow Blower
$332 per month
PERSPECTIVE By Nicole Burke 2019 has been an extremely crazy, unusual and stressful crop year – to say the least. The 2019 crop season can be summed up as “No Plant”, “Prevent Plant” or “2 Months Behind.” This also happened to be the year I married a farmer. A year and a half ago, setting our wedding date for June 22, 2019 seemed like a no-brainer, no-issue decision. The crop will be in the ground, yes, we may be spraying but most of the main spring work will be done. Not this year! Most people had barely started, were in the midst of planting quickly or making the decision whether they would plant at all this June. We had no idea when we set the date that this would be a spring for the record books. Not only will we remember 2019 as the year we got married, but most farmers in the Midwest will also remember 2019.
» Did you know Nicole has started her own blog? Newlywed Nicole (Holland) Burke shares her unique perspective of balancing life as a farm wife alongside being an employee of her family owned dealership Holland and Sons. Check our her blog posts at midwestfarmwifey.com or find her on Instagram @midwestfarmwifey
As I prepared to marry a farmer, my sister (somewhat jokingly) but also very practically gave me a book written by professional speaker, author and farmer Jolene Brown entitled, Holy Crap! I Married a Farmer! I recommend this quick read to all farmers’ wives out there, from the young and naïve like me to the seasoned farm wife. The book offers everything from practical advice to hilarious stories shared from farmers’ wives all across the country, including a complete checklist for making a parts run (to Holland and Sons, of course) to the importance of never learning something on the farm that you don’t want to do for the rest of your life. The book also spoke about no two years ever being the same – from too much rain to not enough rain, the markets, storms and everything in between. Farmers and their families experience new hardships and challenges every year with no two years being the same. With this being my first year married to a farmer, I know I will experience many more challenging and stressful times on the farm over the years (and amazing memories). Even though we often wonder at times why farming is worth the risk and stress, there are reminders of why we love it and wouldn’t want it any other way. The sight of the first seeding poking through the ground, a sunset after a long day, the family gathering for dinner after a full day of work, kids and grandkids riding in the tractor cab and much more, not to mention helping feed the world. Then there is the legacy we want to continue on the farm year after year to pass on to the next generation – who will one day face their own challenges and “2019 Planting Seasons.” The hard times make the good times even more rewarding, and I know our future children will definitely hear about 2019 for many reasons.
NEW PRODUCTS
John Deere has revamped their 6M Utility Tractor Series for 2020. And the good news is they kept you in mind when redesigning the lineup. This versatile series is the perfect size to appeal to a variety of customers including dairy, livestock, hay and diversified ag customers, as well as accomplish a variety of tasks like roadside mowing, property maintenance and snow removal. The models have been improved and expanded for 2020 with more options and customizations to better meet customers’ specific needs. The lineup includes eight cab models ranging from 110 to 195 horsepower. Tractors will feature improvements in visibility, maneuverability, comfort and technology not previously available in the mid-spec 6 Family Tractors, which are ideal for handling a wide variety of loader and PTO-driven operations.
Key Improvements and Updates:
Joystick Options + PowrReverser™ Deere kept the mechanical joystick used in previous year models, but has added an optional electronic loader joystick, available on both the armrest and compact CommandARM™. Both joysticks feature the PowrReverser button, which allows you to change direction without taking your hands off the steering wheel or loader joystick, perfect for repetitive loader work. Horsepower Available in base on 6110M, 6120M, 6130M and 6140M models, Intelligent Power Management (IPM) delivers an extra 20 engine HP boost, which is incredibly helpful in PTO and high-speed transport applications. Deere has also added the 140-hp 6140M model to the lineup, which addresses a sweet-spot in size, horsepower and capabilities.
Front Loader Machines can be ordered loader-ready from the factory and matched with a John Visibility Deere 600R Loader. These loaders are Two of the more popular models, the designed to be small enough to match 6110M and 6120M, have been redesigned with a sloped hood that provides the design of the new 6110M and 6120M tractors and include more LED lights, a an 18-ft. front view distance for improved visibility for loader work. With all curved boom and underslung leveling links that improve overall loader performodels, you also have the option of a panoramic roof to get an uninterrupted mance for all types of operations. The optional hydraulic remote implement view of the full loader cycle. latch makes switching loader attachments easier and faster without even leaving the Maneuverability cab. Designed with a shorter wheelbase found on the popular 6430, you’ll beneNew Tech fit from a 14-ft. turning radius on the New technology is available for custom6110M and 6120M, so you can get the job done, even in the tightest of spaces. ers who want more precision guidance, telematics and other features found on larger or higher spec tractors. This inComfort and Convenience cludes factory-installed AutoTrac™ guidJohn Deere has updated the cab comance, available for the first time on the forts for all 6Ms to include new styling and a digital corner post display for im- small-frame models, and the option of JDLink™ telematics for fleet management, proved view of machine data. To imservice updates and maintenance alerts. prove operator comfort and performance, tractors can be equipped with a compact CommandARM™ for fingertip If you’re in need of a powerful loader tracmachine and implement control; up to tor to get a variety of chores done around the farm or homestead, the reimagined four electronic selective control valves lineup of John Deere 6M Tractors might (E-SCVs); and front hitch and PTO for be the perfect addition to your fleet. mounting and operating front-end Model Year 2020 John Deere 6M Tractors equipment. A first for the 6M Series, are available to order as of September 17, front axle suspension elevates your 2019 and will begin arriving at dealercomfort when working in bumpy field ships early next year. conditions or when traveling at road speed.
SERVICE
By Chuck Boomgarden, Freeport Service Manager As a kid growing up, did you ever get excited when you saw a big John Deere tractor or combine? Did you ever say to yourself, “Someday I want to work on those big machines”? If you have that desire, Holland and Sons and John Deere can help you get closer to making those dreams come true through the John Deere Tech program.
» Did you know not only do JD Tech students at Holland and Sons get paid for interning, but also may be eligible for tuition reimbursement? Ask us how to get thousands back after completing the JD Tech Program! Email our Aftermarket Manager at brett@hollandandsons.com
The John Deere Tech program is a two-year Associate’s Degree program that unites college training with training at your sponsoring Holland and Sons dealership. Here’s how the program works. You need to select a John Deere dealer sponsor and pick an affiliated college you would like to attend. You will attend the college for part of the program and will work as a paid intern at your sponsoring dealer for the rest of the program, putting what you have learned to the test. Your training will include diesel engines, hydraulics, powertrains, electronics, computer diagnostics, air conditioning and more. What sets the John Deere Tech Program apart from other tech programs is the key. You will be taught by John Deere-trained instructors on Deere equipment in both classroom and hands-on lab training using the latest Deere technology. Upon successful completion of the program, your training gives you an advantage toward becoming a member of the Holland and Sons service support team.
Stop in and ask about the program at any one of our locations or visit our website and check out the “Power Up” video and list of local affiliated colleges under the About Us dropdown. We would love for you to start your journey with us toward becoming a John Deere service technician.
PROMOTIONS
Equipment Discount Examples: - $150 Off New X700 Tractors We would like to say thank you to all past and present military serviceman and servicewomen. Thank you for your service to our country, and we would especially like to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you! As a way to show our appreciation, John Deere has a special program that automatically upgrades all military serviceman and servicewomen to Platinum 1 Status in John Deere Rewards — unlocking the best loyalty rewards including valuable equipment discounts. It also includes 10% off Workshop Products and 10% off at JohnDeereStore.com. A complete list of equipment discounts can be found at Deere.com. Eligibility and Requirements All current and former members of the US Military are eligible including:: Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, and National Guard and Reserves with active, reserve, retired, or veteran status. A valid email address and proof of service is required. To verify your eligibility, Rewards requires a proof of service included with your web registration. There are several types of Veteran ID cards. John Deere prefers one of the following: 1) Driver's License with Veteran's designation 2) Veteran ID Card - VIC 3) Veteran Health Identification Card - VHIC 4) SCRA Certificate - which can generate in less than 30 seconds with just your Last Name and Birth Date - for any service date after 1985 *Military ID Cards and Common Access Cards are not excepted. Registration and Acceptance So are you ready to start saving? Click here to sign up. If you have your proof of service, start by registering at the link above. John Deere will review the information and get back to you shortly. You can always check on your approval status using this link. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your Holland and Sons Sales Representative for assistance. They will happily walk you through the sign up process.
- $300 Off New Z900 Commerical Mowers - $250 Off New XUV Series Gators - $150 Off New 1-4 Series Compact Tractors - $250 Off New 5 Series Tractors - 15% Off MSRP New Skid Steers - $100 Off New X500 Series Mowers
And many more!
PRECISION AG
By Jonathan Koch, Integrated Solutions Manager
Jonathan Koch is the Integrated Solutions Manager for Holland and Sons. You can reach him by phone at (815) 973-2456 or by email at jkoch@ hollandandsons.com
How do you deal with a year like 2019?! Well, it’s definitely a year for the record books – your farming business is similar to ours in the farm supply industry. We continue to do the best we can with the resources and challenges we are presented. The interesting result is that challenges tend to make us perform better while more effectively managing your inputs to obtain the best possible results. In the early stages of “precision agriculture,” it was noted that for precision agriculture to be successful three things were required: 1. Accurate site-specific data about field situations 2. Understanding of the field data and economic benefits 3. Ability to vary inputs by location At Holland and Sons we help your farming operation in a number of ways. I’m going to highlight just a few of them here. First, Holland and Sons has a network of RTK correction towers for the most accurate, repeatable GPS signal. The results of an independent survey by a strip-till farmer showed over 40 percent of strip-till farmers trust and use John Deere brand GPS guidance. In northern Illinois, we are not surprised as most of our farmer customers, even those running non-John Deere equipment, have found that our John Deere GPS correctional system provides the consistent, reliable, accurate signal necessary for today’s agricultural needs. This accuracy offers site-specific information and, ultimately, results. Second, you have access to a reliable way to capture and analyze your field data. The device or telematic product within John Deere vehicles centers within the
PRECISION AG JDLink. This telematic gateway is built into John Deere tractors, combines, and other vehicles/implements and allows vehicle health and field data information to flow from field to farm office or mobile device. John Deere has had this ability in vehicles since 2010 with most of these years being in base equipment. We have transitioned through 2G, 3G and now to 4G technology. John Deere is one of the few equipment manufacturing companies who place value on providing a farmer with a safe, universal portal with which to store data. With the John Deere Operations Center, a farmer can easily view agronomic analysis of his operation and share this with his trusted third-party advisors. The Operations Center also provides the farmer with over 100 associated APIs (Application Programming Interface). API companies provide opportunities for farmers to take advantage of other analysis abilities tailored for their farm operation. The MyJohnDeere.com website provides a central hub for your journey to John Deere Operations Center, JDLink dashboard, JD Financial and other sites. John Deere also provides numerous apps for your mobile devices, including tablets and smartphones. Farmers have told us these apps provide easy and quick access to the information from field operations and vehicles in their JDLink fleet. Be sure to check these out: GoHarvest, Connect Mobile, JDLink, MyJobs, MyOperations, and MyTransfer. Simply go to your App Store or Play Store to download the John Deere App Center and then access these apps. Finally, by using your John Deere vehicles, implements, and technology you are able to vary your inputs with variable rate technology and site-specific planning to better manage your farming operation. This can be completed on your own or with any of your trusted third-party advisors who are already part of your business plan. Many of these third-party companies are already utilizing the John Deere Operations Center. 2019 is truly an experience for all those associated with agriculture. The challenges of this year will be talked about for generations to come. Let’s use this year to build our knowledge and develop our skills to better utilize information and data available to make wise decisions for our operations. Thank you for your business and support. Have a safe and productive finish to 2019.
FEATURED EQUIPMENT Have you heard? For a limited time, we’re offering a 1.9% APR fixed rate for up to 60 months on our entire inventory of combines, corn heads and platforms. We also have financing as low as 2.25% fixed on John Deere 6 through 9 series tractors, planters and hay equipment. Check out some of our featured inventory below and visit hollandandsons.com for more.
Mendota, IL (M) (815) 539-6724 Princeton, IL (P) (815) 875-3838 Dixon, IL (D) (815) 288-4441 Geneseo, IL (G) (309) 944-2101 Freeport, IL (F) (815) 233-1216
Visit www.hollandandsons.com for more...
AGRICULTURE
For the 1st time ever in North America, John Deere announced the addition of two all-new bale-wrapper machines to its round baler lineup for 2020. The C451R and C461R Combination Round Balers are designed to help producers more efficiently cut, bale and wrap all types of forage for higher quality feed. These new balers not only will help producers expedite baling but also more easily lock in nutrients for higher quality forage production. Combination Balers are a great option for producers who utilize individual wrapped or in-line bagged forage for silage.
only 37 seconds, allowing operators to spend more time harvesting. To also expedite baling, operators can continue The Combination Balers utilize the John feeding material into the baling chamber Deere V-Series Variable-Chamber Baler while the first bale is being wrapped and with 7-foot wide pickup and MaxiCut™ released. The balers can produce and precutter with up to 25 knives to size wrap up to 60 bales per hour with the the length of the cut, depending on op- Fast Release System and speedy 40/rpm erator preference. Two levers on the wrapping arms. You can carry extra film side of the baler give the operator the rolls and change them out in less than a ability to engage one of two knife banks, minute with no tools. or both, to achieve the desired length of cut. The C451R Combination Baler can Operator Controls produce easy-to-handle 4- x 5-foot bales and the C461R model produces From the cab, operators can conveniently bales up to 4- x 6-foot. preform a number of functions including Baler
Feeding System
clearing plugs with push-button control of the full-width drop floor, setting bale size and density, and monitoring overall baler performance. Operators also can select how many layers of wrap are desired. Operators can choose where to drop the bale or select one of two automatic drop options.
The high-capacity feeding system features a large-diameter, fully integrated converging auger to ensure smooth, consistent flow of all types and condition of forages – from light straw to heavy, dense high-moisture alfalfa to tough cover crops – into the MaxD bale chamber. This results in more uniform Additional Options + Order Info bale size and density for improved storA rear-view camera and extra lighting age and handling. packages are available to help operators monitor wrapping and unloading funcNew Integrated Wrapping System tions and improve visibility when baling in low-light conditions. An optional tilt sysThe new balers also integrate Deere’s new film wrapping system into one fast, tem also is available to turn bales on end upon release from the wrapping station seamless process. The finished balers are immediately transferred to the ad- to help protect the film from being punctured by crop stubble. If you are interestjoining wrapping area on the attached ed in more information about the all-new transport table, where they are Combination Round Balers or any of wrapped. Thanks to a light-weight collapsing tailgate and moving side panels, Deere’s other Hay Baling Equipment, visit hollandandsons.com or talk to your sales bales can be released from the bale chamber to the transfer table for wrap- representative. The C451R and C461R Combination Round Balers can be orping in less than 5 seconds. Bales can dered now and will be available in time be ejected from the bale chamber, wrapped and delivered to the ground in for the early 2020 cover crop harvest.
AGRONOMY By Gregg Pearson, CCA, Application Sales Specialist and Sales Consultant To say that this year in agriculture has been challenging would be a profound understatement. Not acknowledging the reality and scope of impact of this year’s challenges in the agricultural community would be a bit insulting.
Gregg Pearson is a Certified Crop Adviser with over 15 years of ag sales experience at Holland and Sons, specializing in application sales. You can contact Gregg by phone at (815) 875-3838 or by email at gpearson@ hollandandsons.com
Farmers have and always will simply want to work their fields and grow their crops the best they can. Every year, farmers start a new journey of planting seeds and trusting God to provide the right combination of sunshine, rain and heat needed to bring their crop to maturity. It has been welldocumented that proper planting techniques together with ideal field conditions provide our crop the opportunity to reach maximum yield potential, based on soil type, fertility level and timely rainfall. It is normal for springtime rainfall and cooler temperatures to limit the number of days that would be considered prime planting days. Most farming operations have settled on an adequate equipment lineup to cover needed acres in the allotted time expected, based on historic averages of how many days a typical spring provides. Spring 2019 But this was no typical spring. Unrelenting rainfall combined with cooler temperatures created an environment where virtually no days of optimal planting conditions ever existed for many fields across the entire Corn Belt. This led to much of the crop being planted either in adverse conditions, planted after the traditional planting target window, or both. Past experience of planting in these kinds of conditions gave reason to expect significant reduction of yield potential. In some cases, it was decided that not planting at all made the most financial sense to the operation. It will certainly be interesting to see what amount of stress our modern-day hybrids and seed varieties are able to overcome.
We won’t truly know the impact to yield (and grain quality) until our combines are busy with harvest, producing yield maps for us to review. I attended a conference this summer where a speaker stated there are typically many challenges and opportunities as we attempt to implement a strategic cropping plan to maximize yields profitably. We can either focus on the challenges or focus on the opportunities that challenges bring. This is basic “glass half-empty versus glass half-full” philosophy. But this year it’s been hard not to feel more like the glass is just plumb empty. I know that my focus for this article is typically on agronomic issues that I see limiting crop potential. But for me, it’s hard not to be more concerned with a part of the typical farm operation that has nothing to do with agronomy, at least directly. That’s the farmer himself. 2019 has been the most stressful year I can remember in recent history for agriculture, and it’s not over yet. The events of this growing season will likely create an equally challenging harvest. This, together with the floundering commodity markets that seem to change daily due to tweets and world events, has proven to be very frustrating. However, many of my customers have managed to stay positive as they realize the results of this year’s struggling crop just aren’t their fault and that the majority of the Corn Belt has been adversely affected as well. Focus on what you can control Hopefully, commodity prices will eventually respond to the reality of lower yields that this growing season will likely produce. But short of keeping a watchful eye, there really isn’t much we can do to impact commodity prices. One of my former employers stated to my group that we can look at ourselves as the center of a dartboard and every ring, starting at the center and working out to the edge of the
AGRONOMY
dartboard, is filled with different things in life. The inner circles are filled with things that we have much control of, scaling out to the outer ring being filled with things we have little or no control of. He stated that, in his experience, the difference between successful people and unsuccessful people is where they focus most of their thoughts and time. Many people can become depressed and frustrated dwelling on things in their life that they have little or no control over. Successful people stay positive by acknowledging the things that they cannot control and choosing to focus their time and talents in areas that they can control. Interestingly, many times they actually end up influencing changes outside their circle of control by implementing change where they can. I know this is easier said than done. But at the end of the day you’ll likely feel better that you made a difference with a positive impact on your operation. Keep the faith and try to stay positive. Tomorrow always brings new opportunities for us to achieve.
rain, as soil, crop residue and nutrients left our fields. Sustainable agriculture is a term that’s heard often these days. There was nothing about the runoff situation this spring that would be considered to be sustainable agriculture, by definition. To be sustainable, our farming operations need to be environmentally friendly, socially acceptable and economically profitable. Remove any one of these three and our ability to survive long-term is compromised. The murky mess we saw this spring destroys all three. Soil and nutrients washing downstream is certainly not environmentally friendly, nor is it socially acceptable. Economically, it’s a complete disaster, as we paid good money for the nutrients we applied to our fields. These nutrients are lost and no longer available for crop growth. Regarding soil loss, it’s not an endless resource. Once our topsoil is lost, the productivity of what’s left can’t be rebuilt for decades.
But it’s not our fault, you might say, that we received historic high rainfalls at a time when our fields are most vulnerable, or is it? There has been much Sustainable agriculture talk about the merits of utilizing cover crops during the off-season to immoBack to agronomics: This spring’s un- bilize nutrients and stabilize soils. I relenting rainfall not only made it hope our experience this spring has difficult to plant in ideal conditions, it given reason to take on the challenges was also the cause of much erosion and experience the opportunities that in the field. I felt sick watching the cover crops can bring to our farm opmurky mess that was traveling down erations. In my opinion, the future of our streams as the result of excess agriculture depends on it.
The Holland Herald | Fall 2019
Store Hours MONDAY: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
TUESDAY: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
WEDNESDAY: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
THURSDAY: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
FRIDAY: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
SATURDAY: 7:30 am - 12:00 pm
SUNDAY: Closed
We appreciate you all for attending our 2019 Harvest Meetings. It was a great time to simply get together and talk. It’s been a challenging year, and we want you to know we are appreciative and thankful for your continued loyalty to us. Have a safe harvest!
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Mendota
1701 S 13th Ave. Mendota, IL 61342 (815) 539-6724
Geneseo
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Princeton
20144 1800 North Ave. Princeton, IL 61356 (815) 875-3838
939 Hwy 6 East Geneseo, IL 61254 (309) 944-2101
Dixon
908 Bloody Gulch Rd. Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4441
Freeport
724 Young’s Lane Freeport, IL 61032 (815) 233-1216
Visit us online at www.hollandandsons.com
