Shielded from the rain Stiles Farm Field Day overcomes storm for memorable moment
Although bad weather prevented outdoors, agriculturalists and students had field day earlier this month.
The 2024 Stiles Farm Field Day, held Tuesday, June 11, showcased top-tier barbecue techniques, profitable fertilizer decision-making strategies and youth agriculture safety initiatives. Due to an approaching storm, the event relocated to the Knights of Columbus Hall in Taylor. Unfortunately, this change resulted in the cancellation of the planned all-terrain vehicle and tractor safety course.
The tour featured a diverse array of topics, including “Fat up or fat down? What every Texan needs to know about barbecue,” soil and planter equipment interactions and profitable fertilizer decision-making. Attendees also experienced a demonstration of John Deere’s cutting-edge see-and-spray technology and gained insights into effective insect and weed control management.
One of the guest speakers at the event was Mark Welch, an AgriLife Extension economist from Bryan College Station. Welch delivered insights on effectively managing the rising costs of grain in today’s dynamic market environment.
During the dinner portion of the event, the Williamson County Farm Bureau announced the Agriculturist and Agricultural Business Professional of the Year awards. Farm Bureau presented recognized Scott Zeischang as Agriculturist of the Year.
Zeischang, who has been farming for 25 years, has a distinguished career in agriculture and has been involved in the cattle business for 30 years. Zeischang also serves on the board of Trail Co-op, where he has been a dedicated member for seven years.
Rodney Schmidt and Mike Whitaker were honored as Agricultural Business Professionals of the Year.
Schmidt, the owner of Taylor Feed Store since 2001, has made significant contributions to youth agricultural activities by donating supplies, time and expertise. Whitaker has been instrumental in helping new farmers navigate innovations and changes in the agricultural industry.
This year, two $4,500 scholarships were awarded to Emily Shaw of Travis County and Joshua Green of Burleson County. Additionally, the event hosted two interns from Thrall Independent School District, Dawson Mieske and TJ Kircher.
During the event, a heartfelt memorial was held to honor Jimmy Vega, a longtime worker of the Stiles Farm team who passed away April 22. Vega dedicated over five decades to the farm, earning admiration for his unwavering work ethic and commitment to his profession.
The Stiles Farm Foundation, managed by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service on 2,716 acres in Thrall, exemplifies research-driven, profitable and sustainable agricultural practices in the Texas Blackland Prairie. Through close collaboration with scientists and industry partners, the farm conducts demonstrations and research trials on cutting-edge technologies and farming techniques. This helps producers adopt the most effective agricultural practices available, advancing sustainability and productivity in the region.
