From The Fields

POOCH, from pg. 13 two-thirds done with grass hay, and said those yields are 30 percent less than normal.

Due to the dry conditions, Pooch was able to complete work in all of the low ground areas. He stated that’s only happened maybe two or three times in his life. Typically it’s too wet, and he’d risk getting stuck.

The last of Pooch’s backgrounding calves were recently sold which warranted an overnight stay in Sioux Falls, S.D. for the event. Pooch’s kids were excited to stay in a hotel and Pooch was happy with how well the calves sold. “The market is really high right now.”

The Pooch family is looking forward to attending the Crystal Springs Rodeo in Clear Lake, S.D., which is where Nick and his wife, Kris, originally met. And maybe most exciting of all for the couple’s boys is the addition of a puppy! Bandit is an Australian Shepherd Blue Heeler mix. With two veteran dogs at home to show him the ropes, “It’s a good time to raise a puppy,” Pooch stated. v

HAGEN, from pg. 13

Coming up, Hagen will be mowing ditches and waterways, as well as determining if spot spraying will be needed for any escapes on the low ground. He’s also watching for any signs of insects and funguses. Tar spot made its appearance at the farm late last year.

Gordon, Hagen’s father, is starting a tiling project on 80 acres of newly-acquired land. Hagen reported they’ll begin by putting the mains in and will tile the rest in the fall. There are also woods and fence lines to clean out. “That’ll be a job.”

Hagen and his wife, Christy, recently attended Clear Lake, Iowa’s Thursdays on Main — a local event which includes live music and food vendors. “Enjoy the summer,” Hagen recommended. “It goes too quick.” v