Last pass….ever

[crusher]

Harvest 2024 came to an end today. The last 1/3 of the canola was weak, but saw that coming. Should be close to a crop insurance claim. Overall we’re off 15-20% from average but it was an easy fall.

I’ve been running the family farm for many years and have decided it’s time. Boys didn’t want it, and I figure it’s time for a change. We are original homesteaders, back to 1895. Sure glad they picked here because we always get something to harvest.

Lots of great memories but the ones that stick out are helping out the neighbours when needed and the many Foodgrains Bank Harvests. Its amazing to see farmers get stuff done when it’s needed.

I’m still young and have great health. I hope to do a lot more cycling adventures. Cheers. And don’t sweat the small stuff.

[13stripe]

129 years is an exceptional run, all the best.

[farmaholic]

All the best in retirement crusher.

The fact no family member doesn't want to carry your family's torch kind of makes me sad. I've said before, "farming isn't for the faint hearted or anyone who knows better". It can be a tough gig.

Our family has been eeking a living off the same dirt since 1902, adding more real estate along the way. No one got filthy cash rich but it seems like it turned into a real estate play as much as making a living off the land. But if the land is never sold does it truly matter what monetary value the land has(other than borrowing purposes). Some farmers have more sentimental value in their land than the monetary value of it.

I won't be the generation that cashes in the blood, sweat and tears of those that came before me, because there is someone in the next generation that wants to farm... would I like to see it go another 5 generations? You bet I would. The previous generations built and maintained the base I was able build from.

Maybe the emotion should be removed from the equation...

[furrowtickler]

All the best crusher

[sumdumguy]

Good Luck in your retirement Crusher. You lived a life dependant on dirt, sunshine and rain - and lived knowing what a tiny seed can do with that combination! Some never get to feel that exhilaration.

[checking]

Cycle, cycle, cycle = tricycle.

Good advice not to sweat the small stuff. Save it for the hills as in cycle reference. Wish you well.

Even if I didn't have someone to take over the farm, I would not sell it provided I had enough assets to cover off the capital gains. That could represent the big stuff.

Agree with farmaholic. The only problem I see is that doing it that way, those that farm tend to think you are a horrible person if you become a landlord. They then forget that you were ever the steward of what must be theirs.

[blackpowder]

A rare loss of words for me.
What I don't need to spend to live is going to a non blood fellow with the right passion and respect for generations of sacrifice.
I hope to be active as long as my kids need education. Not sure what hanging on that long looks like.
Unwittingly I seemed to have married this place at the sake of all others over 4 decades ago. Gave it everything I had and it still wants more lol.
But it's very suitable having no bosses and living in the open.
Eventually the body dictates what you can and cannot do.
It sounds like you have found that balance that allows you to enjoy life doing something else. Not all are as lucky. You have lived the dream. Good luck in your future journey.

[wrongway]

Good Luck!
In my case (66) I don't have kids who want to take over either. they have good jobs, very good jobs actually and work places now seem to be very accommodating. I do not believe for a second that the 4 previous generations slaved for me to become wealthy so the kids will get the farm eventually. hopefully enough cash/inventory to pay the taxes owed. I don't have anything else to occupy all the time that would be available if I fully retired. Golfing and fishing/hunting only goes so far. So for me fewer acres and a hobby mentality is why I'm keeping farming. Plus i can keep writing off stuff! I'm sure the "fun" will dissipate if we get a sustained period of low prices and high inputs. I hope I can stay healthy both brain and body to keep on doing what I'm doing.
all the Best Crusher

[farmaholic]

Re Landlords.

Ex Farmer landlords: I have sympathy, empathy and respect for(but not at any cost).

Beneficiaries of Estates: Very little of the above for that group. Especially if they had the opportunity to do it but chose not to(so be it, it is what it is for what ever reason, their choice).

Speculative Investors: Fair game, zero respect or compassion if rent prices crater.

[Herc]

what you mean is respect is earned not given….

[blackpowder]

I might add, it's always better to make a decision on your terms rather than the Reapers'.

[LEP]

Congratulations on your retirement. Hope you wear out your motorcycle.

[Crestliner]

Congratulations Crusher! That is a big decision to make.
In my travels I have not come across one retired farmer who has regretted the decision to hang it up.
The common theme from them is that they did not realize how much stress they lived with for so many years.
So enjoy your new stress reduced life!

[furrowtickler]

Congratulations Crusher! That is a big decision to make.
In my travels I have not come across one retired farmer who has regretted the decision to hang it up.
The common theme from them is that they did not realize how much stress they lived with for so many years.
So enjoy your new stress reduced life!

Absolutely ???? true , I can say the same with anyone I know

[makar]

Congratulations Crusher! That is a big decision to make.
In my travels I have not come across one retired farmer who has regretted the decision to hang it up.
The common theme from them is that they did not realize how much stress they lived with for so many years.
So enjoy your new stress reduced life!

My problem need something to do. No I am not going to learn to knit sweaters.