Winter

I think I’m ready for winter. I say that with fingers crossed because, truly, around here you just never know, despite what the annual Almanac says.

Northern Illinois and the entire Midwest could be facing a warmer, drier winter, thanks to a patch of warm water near the equator. But there is no need for snow lovers to panic — or for summer lovers to break out the patio furniture.

Proper ventilation is key to poultry health and productivity. Randy Stidham, Cumberland district manager, offers equipment maintenance recommendations to help provide an ideal environment for poultry houses during cold weather.

My social media platforms have been littered with posts about the expectations of a harsh winter ahead. From images of caterpillars to persimmons to posts from The Old Farmer’s Almanac, folks are convinced we’re going to experience near-hostile weather conditions this winter.

Time flies when you are having fun and it was fun to see the crops disappear rapidly in great harvest weather. The plant breeders should be acknowledged for their hybrids developed over the last few years that can turn out yields like we have in this very dry year.