Out In The Field
#bfrdpwy #aginternship #RightRisk
This week has been full of new sights and skills. Wyoming has decided that winter is in the past and with that comes a big to-do list. This week I learned how to drive the tractor and work the disk. I have never been in a tractor or piece of equipment this big. Previously I have operated skid steers and small equipment. I won’t lie, I was nervous because all I could think about was how expensive the tractor was. That quickly faded as the operation was quite simple.
I started by observing the tractor and disc, learning all the levers and their actions. The operating part is easy but I think the corners are the hardest part. When disking a field you want to pull up the disk while you turn. This is better for the equipment and makes a sharp turn. At first I wasn’t consistent at making my corners but over time I gained confidence. By the time I was done I didn’t even think while performing a corner turn.
Disking the fields may seem to be a boring task but actually it’s very peaceful. I’m surrounded by wildlife and find much enjoyment from watching them. Not to mention I catch up on the county happenings from the radio. While I’m disking the fields it is a great time to reflect on my life and what I have been learning. For me, reflection is key in understanding a task or assignment. The tractor is a perfect place to do this because there are few distractions.
My biggest takeaway is being observant when driving the tractor. The lull of the tractor and warm sunshine can put you into a relaxed state but it is important to still monitor what’s going on. For example, the disks need to stay clear of mud and debris. To check this you simply look back and make sure they are clear and rotating. Well I learned the hard way because I took one lap around the field with a clogged disc. At first I was afraid I really messed up, but after some prying and kicking the mud was cleared. But I still needed to solve the problem and used a chain, bolt, and two nuts to secure the middle of the disc. After my problem was solved I smoothed out my big pile of mud and dirt and continued on my way.
With that, I also think planning is a huge part of farming. The weather is unpredictable and thus dictates what and when things happen. The weather services do their best but we all know they are never 100% right. Playing cat and mouse with the weather in Wyoming’s spring is a task. One moment it’s snowing and the next it’s bone dry. Making sure the ground is the right condition is vital and I felt confident judging the conditions. Another vital piece of planning is knowing how long you are in the field. The first time I worked the field I didn’t bring enough water and this made for a long couple of hours. This was a pivotal point because I now fill a bag full of snacks, water, and anything I could ever need.
I find my new experiences invigorating and exciting. Being in college I learn a lot of facts and information from books but it’s refreshing to use my hands and be in the moment. Society has lost that aspect and it’s a shame because it truly is a vital skill. These learning experiences are the best training for whatever my future holds. I find enjoyment in my daily tasks and am thankful for those who are teaching me.
Submitted by: Maggie McStay
Edits by: GrowinG Internship Team
