Increase productivity by being a good manager

By GARY TILGHMAN
For the Daily Times

GLASGOW June 30, 2008 04:25 pm

— Effective farm managers use their skills to successfully maneuver through an agricultural industry that is constantly transforming and evolving.
Top managers understand that there are uncontrollable factors associated with farming, but they use their skills to eliminate or limit the impact of these challenges. Below are 10 traits that top agricultural managers possess that can be adapted to any farming operation.
1. Know production costs
2. Set goals based on a clearly defined mission
3. Effectively communicate, lead and empower others
4. Keep excellent records and can easily access and assess them
5. Are innovative and easily adapt to change
6. Dissatisfied with the status quo
7. Organized, focused and able to prioritize
8. View the future aggressively
9. Willing to assess and take risks
10. Take time to recharge
Reviewing these traits can help you determine what traits you have and where you may need to place more focus. While becoming a better manager may take some additional effort, it will make your farming operation more efficient and profitable.
For more information on how you can improve your management practices and farming operations, contact the Barren County Cooperative Extension Service.

UK Horticulture Research Farm Tour
A “Twilight Tour” of the UK Horticulture research farm in Lexington is scheduled for Thursday, July 31, from 5 p.m. until dark (EDT).
Tours will consist of vegetables, fruit, sustainable agriculture, and woody ornamentals and floriculture.
Details and directions are available at the Barren County Extension Office.

Barren County ADC Meeting
The Barren County Agricultural Development Council will meet on Monday, July 14, beginning at 7 p.m. The meeting will be at the Barren County Extension Office.

And Gardeners Don’t Forget…
The Barren County Extension Office now has a new supply of the ID-128 — Home Vegetable Gardening in Kentucky publication. It is a really nice, neat publication for anyone currently or considering producing a vegetable garden. Stop by a get a free copy.

Stay Safe!
Have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July Holiday. The Barren County Extension Office will be closed on Friday, July 4, so we can spend it with our families as well.