For hog producers there’s no hitting pause because of a pandemic. There are hogs to feed, barns to clean and paperwork to complete. The world may have slowed, but hog farmers #FarmOn.
For Kathryn Helmink, a senior attending Southern Illinois University Carbondale, majoring in animal science, whose career plan is to work in the pork industry, that means continuing business as usual.
“We are in the midst of planting season and raising beef cattle and pigs on the side. We recognize the impact COVID-19 will have on the agriculture industry. Despite these challenging times, we will get through it. We have persevered through the times of 1998 (when pork prices were very low) and losing a pig barn to a fire two years ago,” she says. “We have animals that we continue to provide care for. Animal welfare is, and will continue to be, our No. 1 priority. Life is a learning journey: you learn something new every day. Lessons will be learned from this pandemic, too.”
“I believe, as a small farm family, we will get stronger. Keeping in contact with friends and family has helped tremendously in staying positive and focusing on the future,” Helmink continues. “I recommend finding a hobby that makes you happy: for me, when I’m not working with the pigs, I like to draw and take photos. My family will continue to march on through this storm and we will farm on for years down the road.”
More #FarmOn inspiration:
Peggy Greenway, Mitchell, SD: No matter what’s going on in the world, we’re still checking the pigs every day.
Leon Sheets, Ionia, Iowa: It’s simple - I #FarmON because it’s all about the pig.
Jarrod Bakker, Dike, Iowa: We #farmon because despite all obstacles, the care and comfort of our livestock and farm is our No. 1 priority.
We want to see your photos:
How do you #FarmOn? Send your photos or video in by texting FarmON to 31313. Be sure to include “FarmON” with your images. Or mention us on Twitter (@FJ_PORK) or Facebook (Farm Journal’s PORK). See more from all segments of agriculture at AgWeb.com/FarmOn.
Don’t miss Pork Week!
We’re designating June 1-7 as Pork Week, and are sharing tips, tricks and advice across our website, broadcast channels, eNewsletters, social media and in our print issue. Stay tuned for more details.
Related on Farm Journal’s PORK:
Youth Exhibitors #FarmON in the Cyber Show Ring
