By Katie Grace Barrett
As winter fades and temperatures begin to rise, agriculture enters one of its busiest seasons. Farmers and FFA members across the country are gearing up for the start of an important cycle. Spring is a time of growth and renewal, as farmers and ranchers across the country work diligently to help feed families across the nation.
One of the biggest priorities during springtime is planting crops and preparing the fields. Soil preparation is the foundation of a good harvest. Before planting, farmers plow and fertilize their fields to replenish important nutrients in the soil. Crops, such as corn and soybeans, are commonly planted during the spring.
Spring is also a critical time for livestock producers. Many animals give birth during the spring months. This requires extra feeding and close monitoring of the new babies. Calving, lambing, kidding and farrowing seasons can be a stressful time for farmers and animals. This is why it’s crucial to create a clean and safe environment for young babies: to ensure the newborns stay healthy.
Students involved in the National FFA Organization are especially busy during the spring. Many members are actively working on their spring Supervised Agricultural Experience projects. From planting seeds to pulling calves, FFA members keep busy with hands-on learning opportunities outside the classroom. Students helping on farms or training show animals are actively applying what they have learned in their agriculture classes to the real world.
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