Because of
these changes, today’s farms have become larger and more specialized.
these changes, today’s farms have become larger and more specialized.
Change is inevitable
Many livestock farmers no longer grow their own grain for feed. Instead they rely on local farmers to provide them with the grain they need.
Larger operations also mean more resources can be devoted to making sure the right technology and farming practices are used to protect the environment and care for the animals. In short, specialization lets farmers focus their time, money, and energy on a single goal – producing the best commodity as safely and economically as possible.
While it’s undeniable that the business of farming has changed, some things remain the same. In Wabash County, farming plays an important part in both our heritage and our future. Agriculture is still the backbone of our community, and the families that run these farms, whatever their size, are still very much a part of our community.
One important fact to remember is that even though farms are larger today, the vast majority of Indiana’s 63,000 farms are still family-owned and operated.
One important fact to remember is that even though farms are larger today, the vast majority of Indiana’s 63,000 farms are still family-owned and operated.
They also focus exclusively on raising one type of livestock producing poultry, pork, dairy or beef – allowing them to maximize inputs and produce better tasting, more consistent products.
Many grain farmers now raise specialized crops designed for specific uses.
Specific varieties of beans for tofu, corn for ethanol, corn for livestock feed, beans for
their oil production.
Specific varieties of beans for tofu, corn for ethanol, corn for livestock feed, beans for
their oil production.