~by Marilyn Parker
A group of eight Japanese farmers plus their interpreter visited the farm of Paul and Mary Parker north of Churdan on Tuesday, Sept. 13. The group was hosted by Greene County Farm Bureau board members Perry and Marilyn Parker.
Upon their arrival, Perry Parker introduced himself and told the visitors about his and his dad’s farming operation including the number of acres farmed, row crops grown, and their cow/calf herd. Parker then showed the group around the farmstead where they were able to see the shop and various pieces of farm machinery. Smiles came to their faces as they saw and recognized the John Deere flag flying proudly on the flagpole.
Farming more than a few acres in Japan is almost unheard of and seeing big fields of corn and soybeans was really eye-opening. Not only that, but the size of the farm equipment used could be summed up in one word “wow”!
They were very interested in the upcoming harvest. When they walked out to a nearby soybean field that was “turning”, they wanted to know how long until harvest. Other questions ranged from hauling grain, farm equipment maintenance, storing grain, harvest help, marketing grain, managing weeds and pests, GPS, etc.
Parker also told the delegation that he and his wife had traveled to Japan in July with Iowa Farm Bureau. He related that the couple had a wonderful time and had toured/visited many agricultural venues including a Japanese farm so they were familiar with their farming operations. This also brought smiles to their faces.
One of our visitors said that he farms approximately two acres and grows rice and asparagus, very typical for a farm in Japan.
Dave Miller of Iowa Farm Bureau Commodity Services arranged the visit. It provided a great opportunity to learn from each other and showcase what we all love to do – farm!
