The drought monitor report as of Tuesday, April 8th shows a slight improvement across the state. Our entire area is in moderate drought. The six to ten-day outlook (April 22 to 26) indicates a 40 to 50% chance of likely above normal for temperatures and a 40 to 60% leaning above normal for precipitation. The eight to 14-day outlook (April 24 to 30) indicates a 50 to 70% chance of likely above normal for temperatures and a continued 40 to 60% chance of leaning above normal for precipitation. Above normal precipitation would matter as we are entering the time of year with three plus inches per month.
Graduation season is almost here. High school seniors are preparing for the next chapter of their lives. Most will seek some type of post-secondary education. Some know exactly what they will do. Some aren’t sure. Currently, the economic environment seems unsettled, and individuals are looking for a stable career path and not just a job. This also applies to older people already working. Many need a higher paying career with healthcare and other benefits. Many are concerned they may be laid off or have their hours reduced. For all these people, a career in agriculture or related field may be the answer, especially in our area and a state like Kansas.
Many have never considered working in agriculture since they have no background in ag. However, times have changed dramatically over the last 20 years. There simply aren’t enough “farm kids” out there for the work needed. Whether it’s a Co-op, farm operation, or processing facility, employers are looking for competent individuals willing to learn. They can teach many aspects of the career on the job. However, they also look for individuals obtaining certificates, two-year, and four-year degrees in a given area. That’s where a college like Barton Community College comes into play.
Before listing the opportunities, please note that many employers will hire people part-time and work around their class schedule. Also, even with all the uncertainty, agriculture from farmhands and co-op workers, livestock operations to ag lenders, are short, very short of help. So, what can Barton offer to get someone started in agriculture?
• Short term certificate programs in crop protection beef cattle operations include the ability to obtain necessary licensure and certifications.
• The ability to obtain a Class A or B CDL.
• Two-year A.A.S. degrees in Ag. Business, Crop Protection and two-year transfer degrees in a variety of agriculture disciplines from agronomy to animal science.
Students may attend full-time or part-time. Scholarships are available through the Barton Community College Foundation specifically for agricultural.
Dr. Victor L. Martin is the agriculture instructor/coordinator for Barton Community College. He can be reached at 620-792-9207, ext. 207, or martinv@bartonccc.edu.
