Hello again!
As with the previous writer, I too changed the color of my kitchen wall the day before Thanksgiving and now my sage green wall is Tuscan red.
Now that we have the home spruced up for the season it is important that we take a look around the farm. Making sure the farm is winter-ready can be extremely beneficial.
Examples
For instance, winterizing farm equipment can reduce start-up time in the spring, extend the life of equipment and allow for higher re-sale value.
Likewise, farmers also need to prepare their farm animals for the harsh winter months. Keeping animals safe, warm and well fed during the winter is essential to their health and well being.
Tips to winterize farm equipment include:
• Give all equipment an oil change to prevent corrosion. Change air filters and fuel filters. Completely fill gas tanks to prevent water from accumulating in the tank.
• Lubricate the bearings and joints on equipment to maximize their lifespan.
• Check the equipment’s antifreeze for the correct freezing temperature. (50 percent water and 50 percent antifreeze).
• Enhance the life of the belts by reducing tension.
• Minimize sidewall damage to tires by inflating them to the recommended pressure in the owner’s manual.
• Clean planter, combines air seeders and drills.
• Remove soil from tillage equipment. Follow with an application of rust-proof compound.
• Store equipment in a protected building or shelter. After you have completed that lists, the FSA office has a short list for you as well.
As you pick up/give up farms notify the FSA office.
• If you have purchased real estate bring a copy of the deed into the office.
• As you complete your farm records bring your 2011 production evidence into the office to complete your Acre production.
Don’t forget to make your list for Santa as well.
That’s all for now,
FSA Andy
