Check out A commitment to better soil, an Ohio Country Journal interview with Matt Burkholder

By Matt Burkholder
Allen County, Monroe Township

As the American farmer continues to age, is the younger generation interested in continuing the tradition? Are the older farmers willing to help the younger generation?

I grew up on a small farm in Northwest Ohio. I knew from the age of five that I wanted to farm. I’ve never been given a farm or a bunch of cash. But my parents have given me all the help in the world. As a result, I have learned the importance of work ethics from a young age.

As I travel and talk with older farmers. There is one thing in common. Family has always helped the family. Many active farmers today started with a small tractor and possibly a few horses to complete tasks around the farm. Farmers begin to retire and consider renting their farm. Why do they often contact traditional farmers? Why don’t they contact a farmer with a young family? These farmers often implement Conservation practices by using crop rotations, livestock, fruits, vegetables, or another niche crop. Your couple of hundred acres would mean a whole lot more to the niche farmer. 

I currently farm 400 acres. I complete my field work in a timely manner. I had someone tell me if I wanted a chance to rent more land I needed newer equipment. I told him the equipment is for sale every day. If you think I can afford 800 acres worth of equipment while farming 400 acres. You need a lesson in basic economics. Some would say I was being rude to the older generation. But I didn’t start the conversation. This older farmer was arrogant and forgot what equipment he started with 60 years ago. I replied calmly but let him know the facts.

Older farmers complain because the younger generation doesn’t come back to the farm. But is the older generation willing to help them? I don’t mean to give them the keys to the farm. I mean help them with equipment use and guidance in making decisions. And give them responsibility to make decisions and allow them to make small mistakes. I’ve heard of a young farmer who wanted to add a specialty crop to the operation. He wanted to change 5 acres to a 500-acre farm. The older gentleman said heck no. How long is that young man going to stick around with negativity like that?  When the older guys switched from cultivating to herbicide, they began using commercial fertilizer or switched from the moldboard plow to the chisel plow. Did their father discourage their desire for progress and efficiency? Negativity isn’t needed today.

My first-year planting soybean into a cover crop was very challenging. I felt so alone; I had no one to consult for advice. The only things I had around me were negative farmers, neighbors, and nutrient service providers. I knew continuing to do things the same old way wasn’t going to be economically viable, practical or safe.

I kept digging for information to implement Conservation practices on our farm. Can you guess where the wealth of knowledge and support came from? You guessed it, older farmers. I don’t know how many times I’ve called my now-friend Dwight Clary for advice. He has taught me the most about farming and Conservation practices. About 10 years ago, neighbor Joe Schmersal stopped in at a field while I was loading cover crop seeds. His visit that day was so encouraging. It gave me a desire to continue my conservation journey. Of course, I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help of my dad. He has helped me with so many projects. I’m sure they seemed crazy at the time, but he has always been there for me.

A reminder to all landowners, talk with your spouse about how you want the future of the farm to look. You are not immortal; your day will come. At the funeral home, or within a week of your death, your spouse will most likely be bombarded by gifts from “old friends” of yours who claim they are there to help.  The truth is, most of them just want your land. As you decide what to do with your land. A few things to consider, is there a small farmer wanting to grow local produce or willing to install temporary fencing to grow local meat? Would you be willing to work with them on your farm? Northwest Ohio doesn’t need more corn and soybean fields. It needs a more diverse landscape of livestock, fruits, vegetables, etc. That would truly be a family legacy.

A reminder to the older farmers, most of you have nothing to prove. We know you have worked hard all your life. There is no shame in asking for help or letting the younger generation help you with tasks around the property.

To the younger generation, God gave you one mouth and two ears for a reason. Use your mouth wisely. If you listen to the older generation, they have a lot of wisdom to share.

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