Checking Stress Levels

Let’s take a look at where our harvest crews are and what’s going on in preparation for this 2026 season.

BT Harvesting writes that their next five crew members have officially arrived. For them, the next few days will be filled with paperwork, introductions, getting settled in the campers, and finding their way around the shop. There’ll be a big learning curve, but there’s no doubt they’ll take it all in stride. Good or bad, harvest will be here before we know it.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation is hiring an education specialist to bring hands-on agriculture lessons to students across western Nebraska. This role connects youth to farming, ranching, and food in a fun and interactive way. You must reside within western Nebraska because frequent daytime travel is required. Apply HERE.

This week’s Oklahoma wheat crop update shows the crop is under real stress. Statewide 54% of Oklahoma wheat is rated poor to very poor while 12% is rated good to excellent. Drought remains widespread across 98% of all the state with the toughest conditions in southern and western Oklahoma and the panhandle. But there is still a fight left in this crop. Many acres still have potential if we can get timely moisture. OSU Extension specialists are urging producers to keep scouting because not every yellow field is just drought. Afids, mites, and wheat viruses are also showing up. So now is the time to check stressed areas, field edges, and stay in touch with your county extension office. Keep scouting, keep the faith, and keep praying for rain.

Times are tough out there, and suicide rates among farmers are higher than the national average. But now new research shows that online therapy can help with farmers mental health. Please see our post from successful farming on our Harvest USA Facebook page.