• Harvesting Progress and Winter Preparations: Glenn Jones from Greenfield, Iowa, reports that the harvest has been completed successfully, despite previous weather challenges. The cattle and calves are now settled for the winter, and recent snow has melted, improving conditions.

• Severe Weather Conditions in the U.S.: There are upcoming storms across the United States, with severe cold and snow expected in states as far south as Texas and across to North Carolina. Temperatures are forecasted to be below freezing in many areas, including Oklahoma City, leading to potentially treacherous conditions.

• Challenges with Crop Moisture Levels: Discussions involved trading and storing crops, with a focus on the challenges of maintaining optimal moisture levels in soybeans. Neighbors had to harvest soybeans at higher moisture levels and used aeration to manage their storage, though drying conditions have been less than ideal due to weather fluctuations. Concerns were raised about methods for drying high-oil-content seeds like canola and soybeans using low-heat techniques.

David Woodruff with Nathan Cummins

Nathan detailed his current farm operations, including winter activities like rebuilding potato harvesters and managing shipments. His farming crew expands from 10 to 30 people during the harvest season. Staffing, especially during peak times, is challenging, but Nathan utilizes the foreign worker program to maintain labor consistency.