Guy, his wife, Jennifer, and son, Vince, cash crop 850 acres in Southern Door County. They also operate a custom service business specializing in pesticide application and no-till planting. They have been no-till cropping for several years. Most recently, they no-till planted into a few cover crop acres. Now, they have also installed grass buffers in a few fields.
How has being a member of PPF helped you accomplish your conservation goals?
PPF has made me re-evaluate my conservation goals and continually strive to do better in his practices. The networking with other growers and industry personal have helped as well.
What was the biggest challenge you faced with implementing a conservation practice?
Proper timing when spring no-tilling into a growing cover crop.
Was there anyone who has helped you along your conservation journey? If so, who, and what did they do?
Barry Bubolz with NRCS has taken time to give good insight and tips about establishing cover crops in the fall and setting up success in the spring.
What is your advice to someone who wants to try a new practice but isn’t sure where to start?
Attend a field day and bring along a few questions that concern you. There are many farmers that have tried various practices, and most are willing to tell you what works or, more importantly, what went wrong.
Were there any unanticipated outcomes from any of the practices you’ve tried?
How different weeds or bugs adapt to cropping system changes.
What surprised you the most after you tried planting into green for the first time?
Once the planter was set correctly, I noticed it was much easier compared to a burndown.
How has PPF helped you understand conservation practices?
I learned quite a bit about sediment reduction and how farmers must all contribute to reduce sediment loss.
Why is it important for you to have a sustainable farm?
I don’t really like the word “sustainable.” I believe it all about making informed farming decisions and utilizing the best tools currently available to us. As a result, I plan to carry on as the fourth generation on our farm and keep improving our conservation practices and farm production.
