My dad, my mentor

When protecting the farm, it’s important to remember that it’s not just about caring for crops or tending to cattle. You must also protect yourself — by deepening your relationships, strengthening your mindset, restoring your values and soaking up as much knowledge as you can.

As dairymen, we wear many hats. We’re not only farmers but also agronomists, nutritionists, mechanics, businesspeople and more. As a young farmer, it can be overwhelming to think about everything I still have to learn and all the roles I have yet to fill.

Thankfully, I’ve had the privilege of following, watching and learning from the best role model since I was old enough to walk in his footsteps: my dad. I’ll always cherish the pillow and blanket left in the tractor, the times I rode behind his arm in the skid loader and the memories of sitting in the feed bunk while he grained the heifers.

I’ve always admired my dad deeply. When I was eight, I started a journal titled “Facts About Dairy Cattle.” I filled it with everything I learned from watching him, from how to pull a calf to recognizing signs of illness to helping a down cow. Looking back, I’m amazed at how much I absorbed at such a young age.

Still, I sometimes catch myself worrying about the future of our farm, not because it’s unprofitable or unsuccessful but because I wonder how I’ll ever learn everything there is to know. Even after years of involvement, I doubt I’ll ever feel completely ready for all the responsibilities ahead.

However, I’ve learned that who you surround yourself with greatly shapes who you become. My dad has worked hard to surround our farm with an incredible team, from the nutritionist to the loan officer to the veterinarian and beyond. Each brings valuable knowledge and helps the farm thrive in different ways.

I have learned that success in the dairy industry is heavily reliant on this team dynamic. The nutritionist helps us fine-tune feed rations to keep our cows healthy and productive. The veterinarian helps us be more proactive with our cattle and ensure our herd is sound. And, even though they might not know much about cows, our agronomist helps us stay up to date on the best crop management. Every person helps shape the farm, and when everything comes together, the farm thrives.

My dad’s willingness to share what he knows — and to keep an open mind — is truly a blessing. I’m reminded daily that I don’t know everything, but I have the best mentor just one phone call away. Every challenge becomes an opportunity to learn, and I’ll never tire of our end-less conversations about how to make the farm better.

Building meaningful relationships has always been one of my dad’s top priorities. He values trust and honesty and takes the time to connect with people. Whether it’s stopping to chat with a sales representative, answering a call from another dairyman on the first ring or talking with a kid looking for a job, he sees every interaction as an opportunity to learn and build a relationship.

He’s never been afraid to ask questions, accept feedback or be the support someone else needs. What might start as a business exchange often turns into a friendship and trusted partnership. You never know when that sales representative will become a vital part of your farm — or when a quick conversation might lead to your next great employee.

That said, you also have to remember that everyone pulling into your driveway ultimately wants the same thing: a part of your milk check. It’s your job to protect it and spend it wisely. Take the time to get to know the people you are working with and make sure that they are mak-ing a lasting impact on your operation.

To be a better farmer, you have to become a better person. Agriculture is constantly evolving, and the definition of a neighbor is changing. With fewer Americans working in the agri-cultural industry, genuine connection is becoming harder to find. Work hard to surround yourself with people who shape your attitude, guide your direction and influence your decisions for the better.

Have the conversation. Build the relationship. Become a better person.

Abby Fairbanks is the third-generation on her family’s farm. She works full-time with her parents, Doug and Jody, where they milk 400 cows  near Anamosa, Iowa.