It’s all I’ve ever known and all I’ve ever wanted to do. I knew since I was young I wanted to farm.

I was involved in FFA as a kid and worked in construction and as a mechanic before I farmed full-time. Construction and mechanic skills have definitely been applicable on the farm.

We subscribe to the philosophy that working capital is more important than equity. We work to not over-extend ourselves and to build up a cash reserve to prepare for bad years. In good and bad years, we live within our means.

We plan to pass the dairy farm on to the next generation, which includes my son, his wife, and our two nephews.

I enjoy working with family, being outdoors, and the flexibility that being your own boss allows – I can work as hard as I want to or take a day off.

First, they understand farming and the reality that not every year is a good year. They are forward-looking and work with us to achieve our long-term goals. The people are very down to earth and are always willing to make time for us. In 1994 we lost a heifer barn to a tornado, and FCSAmerica people helped us rebuild it.