F
armers confess they don’t often take extended vacations, but when the occasional getaway is planned, they count on farm sitters to mind their business. Some rely on professional farm sitters, while others call on friends and neighbors to care for livestock and secure farm property—whether for a sudden event, a family vacation or simply an afternoon retreat.
MIND the FARM Farm sitters step up when producers are away.
‘You never truly leave’ Neighboring farmers farm sit for each other BY NICOLE ZEMA
NICOLE ZEMA
The Thiemann family last took a real vacation in 2019. The 10-day cruise to the Caribbean was a chance to unplug. “But the farm is always on the back of your mind,” said Louisa County beef cattle and small grains farmer C.T. Thiemann. “You never truly leave.” Even a qualified farm
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VIRGINIA FARM BUREAU NEWS
C.T. Thiemann, right, shares tips on cattle care with Casey Hoback, who watches Thiemann's Louisa County farm when he's away or if there's an emergency.