There are so many reasons to love rural agriculture, and my husband, Ryan Knuth, is one of those reasons…well for me at least!
With three decades of farming as a 36-year-old, Ryan shares his memories of growing up on their family farm, how their business has evolved, and his love for small-town life. Even with change, Knuth Farms LLC continues to practice diversified agriculture with being involved in the production of swine, cattle, and row crops. They are a three-generation farm with now having Ryan, his brother Eric, and sister Amanda involved in the day-to-day of the operation.
100% transparency: Even after being married to him for 12 years, I still continue to learn about agriculture and modern technology! And I’m sure you’ll have some “a-ha” moments from today’s episode as well!
Key Takeaways
- There are many seasons to farming, in late July, Knuth’s will do their second cutting of hay and maintenance on the combine, trucks, and chopper to make sure all their equipment is ready for fall. After harvest, they will haul manure, clean/fix equipment, and begin getting ready for the next year.
- “Fall is one of my favorite seasons because I like to see how the decisions were made and how they all came together.” Ryan remarks on how it’s exciting to measure and see the progress of the corn from year to year and field to field.
- When one initially thinks of the benefits of farming you think food. This is an important aspect, but Ryan also acknowledges how in rural areas, businesses survive off each other. When they need a project done or the gas tank filled, they support local.
- “Anything we send to the food line is antibiotic free at that time.” This is one of the biggest misunderstandings when it comes to food labeling and shopping at the grocery store.
- “It’s a good way to grow up, you learn work ethic, the responsibility to keep things alive. It’s just a good way to grow up.” Ryan appreciates the way he has grown up and it is part of the reason we have chosen to raise our kids the same way.
- “People in small-towns help each other out. They don’t even bat an eye; they just show up.” Ryan recognizes the local businesses and people who continue to always be there for each other.
Connect with Ryan
Watch the harvest roll in this fall! Follow Ryan on TikTok and Instagram @eastern_iowa_farmer
Be the first to comment