First, a very happy Labor Day to all. This weekend marks the end of summer and for those of us of a certain age, it’s time to put away the white belts and shoes. For producers it signals that harvest of summer crops will soon be in full swing and wheat planting is near. This weekend celebrates and honors workers and their contribution to our country. Rather than dig deeply into an agricultural subject today, let’s discuss labor and agriculture. And to make it a bit more interesting, the information is in the form of a multiple choice quiz with the answers at the end.
1. A recent survey of farmers indicated the majority spend on average, how many hours a day working?
a. 5 – 9 hours
b. 10 – 14 hours
c. 15 or more hours
2. The average farm or ranch manager has a median yearly income of?
a. $55,000
b. $65,000
c. $75,000
d. $85,000
3. On average for the entire country, if calculated the average farmer earns how much per hour?
a. $13
b. $23
c. $33
d. $43
4. The average size of a farm in Barton County (2012) was:
a. 815 acres
b. 925 acres
c. 1050 acres
d. 1250 acres
5. In 2014, the average income for a Kansas farm was?
a. $75,000
b. $100,000
c. $120,000
d. $140,000
Please remember these are averages made up of many individuals and farms. The main point is that farmers and ranchers work long hard hours when many of the rest of us are enjoying a holiday like this weekend. They are working while many of us are sleeping. This isn’t said to feel sorry for them as almost all love what they do but to appreciate what they do and how it allows us to lead our lives being well fed without having to think about it.
Answers: 1-c, 2-b, 3-c, 4-a, 5-c