Jeff Burbrink

Great Outdoors



Purdue Extension last offered the Managing for Success program in 2005. This program is designed to teach management skills for the successful operation of farm businesses. It is one of the best programs I have had the privilege to work with.

Beginning Feb. 12, and running four consecutive Tuesdays, we will be offering the program again in Goshen at the fairgrounds. Each class will be offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch will be provided.

Managing for Success focuses on building skills such as organizing, planning, directing and staffing your business. Along the way, you will work on focusing your business energy, recognizing trends in global agriculture, communication skills, and we hope you will discover what “makes you tick.” The class size will be a maximum of 15 people, so the experience will be unique and personal. The instructors are Purdue Extension educators and specialists.

The cost of the program is $125 per person. A second person from the same farm can attend for $100. If you are interested, contact Robert or Jeff at the Purdue Extension office in Elkhart County at 533-0554.

Census of Agriculture forms due Feb. 4

Every five years, the U.S. Department of Agriculture takes an extensive survey of producers called the Census of Agriculture. The forms for the 2012 census were mailed several weeks ago, with a deadline of Feb. 4 for the return.

Many people and businesses use the census. Lawmakers use the census to help determine policy. Companies use the census to track trends and decide where their efforts are best placed. As an Extension employee, I use the census every week to help people understand this complicated industry we call agriculture.

Accuracy is important on the census. If the wrong information is reported, the census can lead to bad policy or poorly planned support for the industry.

If you did not receive a copy of the 2012 Census call 888-424-7828 to receive a copy. You can also go online at www.agcensus.usda.gov to complete the report. Several farmers I have spoken to say the online reporting was easier to use than the paper version of the census they have completed in the past.

Jeff Burbrink is an Extension educator in agriculture and natural resources. Write to him at 17746 E. C.R. 34, Goshen, IN 46528; call 533-0554; or fax 533-0254.