I was talking more of a general perception of the farmer and farming in
general. I would have liked to have heard the discussion in the late 50's as we
in the United States basically regulated the exploration for new oil field's to
nothing. There was plenty of oil in third world countries ( most of which
were our allies ) and the production would greatly spur the development of
their economies. It did not take long to find that as a net importer of oil we
could be shut-off from supply and would pay what we had to for the product (
The road use tax on a gallon of gas is now more than the price was in 72). I
worry that we are letting the same thing happen with our food production. At
most of the grower meetings that I attend at 48 I am one of the youngest
persons there. I only hope that we in this country do not let a generation of
growers move away from the farm because of poor returns, long hours of hard
work
and most especially the growing regulation imposed upon us by groups of well
meaning but short-sighted groups that have the time to complain to the
government until it is easier to pass the wanted regulation than listen to
them
anymore. The volumes of paperwork has increased 100% or more in the last 20
years. I will be the first to state that there has been and still are a small
group of growers who cause most of these problems and as an industry we would
be
better served without them. In my area we have tried to become more proactive
in identifying possible problems whether it be environmental, the way labor
is treated, or how our farming operation effect our neighbors. Our goal is "
Do no harm to others" and when someone stops trying to meet this goal then
help them to remember the alternatives. Farming is a wonderful live style a
way to make a living for those who are born with it in their blood. For the
other people I can only feel sorry for them. We finished pruning today and its
not to far to the golf course, because it will be in the 70's today and we
sprayed peach last Monday and it looks like apples will need to be spray on
Monday. May all you crops be plentiful and the demand for them strong. I hope
this is a saying that is positive " may you die in Ireland".
with much respect,
Kenny Barnwell
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