Mike Donovan's Page

A sensible approach to farming
Farming efficiently does not necessarily involve using the biggest machines and the greatest numbers of acres, but neither does it mean never spending. Organic or conventional, high input or low, each has the scope to improve performance through modifying methods and work routines.
Finding out how other farmers, just like themselves, have devised to make their work easier and more profitable is a critical part of achieving progress. Visiting a great many farms to discover the innovations they have devised is a good way to learn, and if you can't visit many yourself the next best thing is to find out from people who do take notice of farm innovation.
Progressive farming for these guys means taking regular steps to make the business better, and that's often got little to do with getting the cheque book out and adding to farm debts. A fundamental part of the process is seeing what other farms or businesses are doing - and you'll be surprised and amazed at the innovation which is employed on farms throughout Britain, Ireland, Europe and beyond.
Getting details of new machinery, it's horsepower, work capacity, dimensions and so on is just one part of being on top of the farming game, and the one that's easy to achieve. There are plenty of reviews, and all are displayed in the popular agricultural shows and demonstration events. And machinery sales depends on farmers seeing the necessity for it, and sometimes this means making sure they don't get the cheaper alternative. Yet the cheaper alternative may well be the best option for many farmers.
This is what I do in each issue of Practical Farm Ideas. Take a look. www.farmideas Download a complete 48 page full colour sample. Discover ideas in e-books.