In the winter months, farmers in Iowa are busy preparing for when the weather turns around and
spring arrives. While most people may think that farmers have a break during the winter, the
truth is that there is still plenty of work to be done on the farm. In fact, the winter months can be
just as crucial for farmers as the busy planting and harvesting seasons.
So, what exactly do Iowa farmers work on during the winter months? Let’s take a closer look.
Maintenance and Repair
One of the main tasks that farmers focus on during the winter is maintenance and repair work.
With the equipment and machinery being used heavily during the planting and harvesting
seasons, winter provides the perfect opportunity for farmers to inspect, clean, and repair any
damaged or worn out equipment. This ensures that everything is in working order for the
upcoming busy season.
Planning for the Next Season
While the fields may be covered in snow, Iowa farmers are already planning and preparing for
the next planting season. This involves making decisions about which crops to plant, ordering
seeds and supplies, and creating a planting schedule. Farmers also use this time to analyze
data from the previous season and make adjustments to their plans for the upcoming one.
Livestock Care
For farmers who have livestock, winter is a busy time for caring for their animals. This includes
providing shelter, food, and water to keep them warm and healthy during the colder months.
Farmers also use this time to breed and prepare for calving or lambing season, which typically
occurs in the spring.
Marketing and Sales
Winter is also a time for farmers to focus on marketing and sales. With less time spent in the
fields, farmers can attend trade shows, conferences, and workshops to learn about new
techniques and technologies, as well as network with other farmers and potential buyers. This is
also a time for farmers to sell their products and plan for the upcoming market season.
Financial Planning
In addition to planning for the next season, winter is also a time for farmers to focus on their
finances. They review their budgets, analyze their expenses and profits, and make decisions on
how to allocate their resources for the upcoming year. This is also the time when farmers may
seek out loans or grants to help with their farm operations.
Preparation for Emergencies
Winter can also bring unexpected challenges for farmers, such as severe weather conditions or
equipment breakdowns. To prepare for these emergencies, farmers spend time during the
winter months creating contingency plans and stocking up on necessary supplies, such as hay
and feed for their livestock.
In conclusion, while the winter months may seem like a slower time for farmers, it is actually a
crucial time for them to prepare for the upcoming busy season. From maintenance and repair
work to planning and preparing for the next season, farmers have a lot on their plate during the
winter. At FSC, our highly trained technicians are equipped to repair or replace damaged tires
and our agronomists are more than happy to discuss any changes to cropping plans that may
need to happen We’d be happy to assist our clients in some of this off season prep!
