Precision Ag: Five Tips for Getting Started
Implementing any new technology can be tough. Here’s how to get started with precision ag.
Read MoreThis Illinois farmer talks about the importance of listening, patience and going a little easier on himself.
By Jeff Caldwell
| Photos by Christy Couch Lee
Dave Lynn knows the value of experience on his Williamsfield, Ill., row crop and cattle operation. He’s gained a lot of it from the relationships he’s had with area farmers dating back to when he was just starting out on the farm. But, this self-effacing farmer will be the first person to laugh and say he’s never listened to the advice he’s been given … at least not the first time. Here’s a bit of what Lynn’s learned.
FL: What was the best advice anyone’s ever given you?
DL: “Old Pappy” was the father of Les Potts, owner of our farm. He gave me most of my education. When I was about 12 years old, he was in his 70s, and I was with him all of the time. To this day, I can still hear him say it like it was yesterday: ‘He who don’t taketh care of nothing will haveth nothing.’”
FL: What have you learned about trying to predict the future?
DL: Predicting the future? Ha! I have learned the hard way just to not try. Every time I think I have the future figured out, things turn around and go the opposite way!
FL: How have you changed since you were younger?
DL: Well, I haven’t gotten any taller, and I’ve gained some weight! But, I’d have to say I have gained patience. When I was younger, I never had enough patience. It still sometimes seems like I never have enough, but I have gained a lot over the years.
FL: What’s a mistake you’ve made that taught you a lesson?
DL: It’s hard for me to separate all the mistakes I’ve made. Even if it’s something small in the field that causes a little extra work, I think all of my mistakes have taught me something. I make enough mistakes that I try to learn from all of them. But, sometimes you feel like you don’t want to learn anymore!
FL: What’s something you’d like to learn to do, but never have?
DL: I have always wanted to learn how to play guitar, but I never have. I’ve always said I don’t think I could do it. I don’t think my left hand is attached to my brain! But, I also need to learn how to stop putting so much pressure on myself. I’m my biggest critic, and I hope to learn how to go easier on myself someday.
FL: Any advice for the FarmLife readers?
DL: Listen to the “old guys.” Ever since I was a young kid in high school, I always had the older farmers around here. Even when I was just working on the farm part-time, I always had them around to share with me all of their experience.
<< See Dave Lynn’s full story, “Heavy Metal, High Tech”