Most of the country is buzzing with harvest or is getting close. Best of wishes to everyone for a safe and bountiful harvest! There should be no surprises at this point. As the daughter of a Midwest dairy farmer, I know how exciting and stressful this time of year is.

Top 5 Reminders:

Be safe above all else. Safety trumps speed every time. Wear those vests and bright-colored shirts - you look great in them! Look, look, then look again as you haul wagons and trucks from the field to the bunker, pile or silo. Shut down completely when you need to clear the inevitable plugged head. Stop the PTO shaft and cut the engine altogether. Work together, and watch for gasses that are so deadly.
Check dry matters often and keep a written record on paper or digitally. Yes, it might be a pain for now, but recording what’s going on will help you figure out what went right and wrong next March when you’re trying to remember. Check kernel processing and chop length while you’re at it. Adjust when you need to.
Stick with the plan for bunkers and drive-over piles. Layer in 6” increments and allow time to pack that layer before adding more. Move efficiently, and you’ll have time and space. Trust your math. Pack tractors should never have to worry about rolling off a pile or bunker. Those drivers need to come back tomorrow, too.
Communicate with your contractors - both chopping and covering. Set your expectations and thank them for following them. Let your crew know when to expect to seal a day ahead. Finish strong! Sealing is the last thing you’ll do before harvest is over. Have as much enthusiasm for this big job as you did the day you planted this crop.
Take care of yourself. Eat well, sleep well, stay hydrated, and rest when needed. Take a deep breath in a count of 4, hold it to the count of 7, then let it out to 8. Do this a few times, then repeat every time you feel your shoulders up around your ears.