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Harvesting Season at Geck Farms
At Geck Farms, the atmosphere buzzes with the excitement and diligent effort of the harvest season. On the second day of corn picking, preparations are underway as the team ensures all machinery is in optimal condition for what lies ahead.
Equipment Preparation
Last night, Dad demonstrated his perseverance by working late to reattach the roller to the corn picker. After a process where he had to install and remove components multiple times, he finally achieved the correct setup despite the challenges posed by used parts and questionable bearings.
“We’re going to keep our fingers crossed that this roller holds up for more than one load,” he remarks, aware of the critical nature of the machinery's performance.
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Understanding that old equipment doesn't last forever, there’s an ongoing inspection of various components. Dad is poised to apply grease and oil to keep everything well-lubricated while ensuring the conveyor is set up correctly. After completing morning milking, which went smoothly, the farm welcomes a new arrival — a beautiful first calf heifer.
The Trip to the Fields
As they prepare to hit the fields, the picker's readiness is utmost priority. With tarps laid out to catch loose grain and the setup of wagons for collecting harvest, the farm gears up for a promising day of corn picking.
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“We’re going to keep pushing these wagons and get that field done soon so we can wrap up this trip,” is the plan mentioned as they head into the lush fields of corn. As the day progresses, the crew faces the usual challenges but maintains a focus on productivity.
Monitoring the Harvest Process
With the corn picker out in the tall rows, smooth operation is observed. The day is perfect — cool with a light breeze — setting the stage for what seems to be a fruitful yield. However, as the first loads are picked, the team remains vigilant, checking the functionality of bearings and other critical components, ensuring that everything is performing as it should.
Community Engagement and Support
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During a pause in the action, the team takes a moment to appreciate their supporters. “Check out gckfarms.com for some awesome merch, like hoodies and hats!” they encourage their audience, asking them to continue sharing and subscribing to their updates. The community's involvement plays a significant role in motivating the farm crew.
Technical Difficulties and Problem Solving
Upon returning to the yard, issues arise with the picker needing attention. A tensioner appears to have fallen off, prompting a series of troubleshooting efforts. The crew reflects on the age and condition of the equipment, working together to devise solutions, including the creation of a makeshift tensioner using available materials.
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“It’s all part of keeping the operation going,” they remark, navigating through the various repairs while ensuring nothing gets neglected.
Safety First
As they work, the team remains aware of fire hazards associated with harvest activities. Dry chaff and machinery can present serious dangers, so they frequently remind themselves to manage hot work responsibly by keeping an eye on the machine areas and ensuring nothing ignites.
Wrapping Up the Day’s Work
As the first cribs fill up with harvested corn, it signals the nearing end of a productive day. Acknowledging the amount of work still ahead, the crew prepares to transition to the next stage of processing the harvest. From cleaning to grinding feed, the tasks ahead reflect the continuous efforts required in farm life.
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“If this video is getting too long, thank you all for watching, and we appreciate your support!” concludes the day’s activities as the crew reflects on their accomplishments.
Conclusion
The essence of farming is echoed through the authetic experiences shared at Geck Farms. Harvest time is rife with challenges, assessments, and the inevitable embrace of teamwork. As the crew navigates equipment repairs, productive days, and community engagement, they remain committed to their craft, ready to tackle whatever the season may bring next.