Lately I've been thinking about the amazing feat that is farming. There is SO MUCH to learn and know. Speaking just on the horse side of things you can spend a lifetime amassing knowledge about topics such as breeding and genetics, nutrition, training, health, deworming, stable design, pasture care, grooming, and the list goes on. Add in extra tasks such as making your own hay, maintaining farm equipment, keeping farm and financial records and you quickly realize that no one person can be an expert in all (or even most) of these areas!
We have been blessed to be raised in communities that value supporting one another and sharing the things we've learned. I think most of agriculture is like that, although at times you run across pockets where secrets are heavily guarded to maintain a competitive edge or people feel the need to tear one another down in order to feel like their program is better and these things are incredibly discouraging to me. I love it when those who have been doing things for years can share tips and tricks with those starting out, and also when old timers can appreciate the fresh insights that new enthusiasts can bring.
Lately, we've benefitted from advice from several friends on the best way to get hay dried and baled properly. I've also been enjoying videos from a fellow Brabant breeder on some very impressive training techniques. When faced with dilemmas on getting mares bred or handling tricky customer service scenarios I have several groups on Facebook where I can get feedback from trusted individuals. On the flip side, I enjoy being able to help others when they have questions about horses they have purchased for us, the breeds we raise, or processes such as importing or parasite management. At times, both sides of the coin come together such as when a past customer was facing a training issue with her colt that I couldn't help with but a good friend and our personal trainer was more than happy to weigh in with some ideas to pass along. All in all, it's a beautiful thing when we can help one another along and work together rather than against each others.
With that in mind, what are you an expert at that you can share with others? We can't all know everything about everything but we certainly have the topics that interest us and lead us to learn more. As you learn, be sure to pass along the knowledge you've gained to others who are facing similar scenarios!
