I am the secretary for our local irrigation company in Juab County and work closely with all the farmers and ranchers in our community. Lately, people seem to blame the older generations for the things being done today that people don’t think are right. I don’t see it that way, and I’d like to share a glimpse of what I see instead.

I see hardworking men and women. I often drive the “fields” at odd times of the day. At midnight, I see farmers baling hay for cattle. At 6 a.m., I see them moving water for their crops and feeding animals. In the evening, I see them planting fields for hours to get the seed in the ground before the storm comes the next day. Being in agriculture is not a 9-5 job; it’s so much more than that, with a never-ending to-do list.

I see practices that conserve water and make things better. The local irrigation board undertook a significant project several years ago to improve watering efficiency and reduce waste. They pressurized most of the system so that they weren’t flood-irrigating fields anymore, but instead, they were using pivots and wheel lines. They knew the importance of conserving water and took action that benefits our valley today. I watch them try new things in hopes that it will help the next generation of farmers and ranchers after them. 

I see leaders. After a long day at work on the farm, I watch as many of these men and women attend board meetings, serve on city councils, and fulfill religious duties, all while ensuring everyone at home feels loved. They go to battle on issues that we all face and take the time to learn about the issues. In most of these positions, they don’t get paid, but they do it with a smile and the hope that they are creating a better future for the rest of us.

Before we point fingers at the generation before us, I hope we can consider all the incredible things they have done to pave the way for us and the future of agriculture in our state. To them, I say thank you!