Small-town farms in rural Wisconsin have a very large effect on the area. They are protecting and enhancing natural resources while also helping the environment. They also provide income in these rural areas. My grandparents, Mitch and Brenda Crubel, own a farm in Patch Grove, WI.
In 1951 my great-grandparents bought it as an 80-acre home farm. In 1964 they bought an additional 65 acres a mile away from the farm. In 1980 my grandparents went in on a percentage with my great-grandparents. They then bought an additional 260 acres a few miles away and my grandparents and great-grandparents went in 50-50. For 10 years they lived on a farm that consisted of 2 silos, a large cattle shed, and a barn. In 1990 they switched houses with my great-grandparents. My grandparents continued to add more dairy cattle in 2011. They then bought 40 acres from my grandpa's uncle in Bloomington.
Owning a farm affects everybody’s life in the family. It teaches everyone a good work ethic. You have to be ready for the ups and downs; some days things aren't done but you have to finish the best you can. You might miss some events or holidays because there is nobody else to do it, but you can be your own boss most of the time. It is a good way to raise a family by teaching hard work and dedication.
The economy can affect a farm in many ways. There are very good years and some are bad. The market is always changing. In the good years, you save and improve the farm. In the bad years, you just have to hope you don't get too far behind. There are more ways in farming to make extra money to help on the farm. My grandpa has started to help neighbors with fieldwork for $20 an hour. He also raises cattle for people who do not have the space to raise them.
Farms are very helpful and a necessity all over the world. Whether they raise crops or animals, they are needed everywhere. Without them, the world would not be able to operate. I am happy to be part of a family farm and have the opportunity to work on and help when help is needed.