A farmer from the Rosa area says he is not expecting a bumper crop this year, but he will take what he can get.

Robert Budey of Budey Farm explains his father purchased their farm back in 1953. Prior to that, it was owned by his sister's in-laws. 

Budey says since day one, they have always raised cattle. He notes his father, who came across from Ukraine as a nine-year-old boy, operated with about 40 head of cattle and 10 sows. Budey says since the early 2000's he has been working full time on the farm and today has about 120 head of cattle in addition to growing some crops.

Budey notes they have about 1,700 acres of land. He guesses that about half that is rocky, bushland and is therefore used as pasture. In addition to that he grows hay, both native and seeded and then this year is also growing wheat and soybeans. 

As far as their hay crop is concerned, Budey says they have been very fortunate this year. 

"(We) have to count our blessings here," he says. "We've had some spotty rains throughout the year, and I know neighbours just not far from here have been high and dry and we've had some spotty rains."

Budey says the precipitation that has fallen has been enough to keep the grass and pasture growing. And, considering how dry it has been for most people in the area, Budey says their crops do not look too bad. 

According to Budey, the hay they grow is enough to feed their herd. Plus, he says if they have a little bit left over at the end of the year, there are always a few farmers that he is able to help out. 

"Most of the time I try and keep everything I do have," he points out. "Sometimes it happens you got some extra cash flow with selling hay crop too."

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We visited the Budey Farm in Rosa for Meals on the Farm presented by Steinbach Credit Union. We ate a delicious meal from Mennonite Heritage Village and our sponsors gave some presents. What a beautiful day for a visit to the farm. Thanks to Robert and Monica for hosting us and introducing us to your family and friends!

♬ Life's a Dance - John Michael Montgomery

As for their wheat and soybeans, Budey says the start of wheat harvest is just around the corner. He notes they had some Iron Chlorosis in one of the fields, which has not helped the situation. 

"I guess it is what it is right now, it's not going to be a bumper crop, but there will be some yield there," says Budey. "Take what there is I guess."

Meanwhile, Budey says he has exactly zero employees. However, that does not mean this is a one-man show. Though there are no workers on the payroll, Budey says they run an old-school operation and when there is a job to be done, friends and family come to help.

For example, on May long weekend, nephews, nieces, brothers and friends will come out to vaccinate their cattle. Then, at the end of the day they will gather for a meal. 

"It gives us a reason to get together," says Budey. "Because I think that's what's lost nowadays. A lot of people don't get together. Socializing and just mingling with the family at the end of the day is great."

Budey Farm was the winner of Meals On The FarmFriends, family and sponsors gather with Budey Farm for Meals On The Farm

MEALS ON THE FARM IS MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE GENEROUS SUPPORT OF THE FOLLOWING BUSINESSES: 
SCU 

MHV  

Steinbach Dodge 

Marc Hutlet Seeds 

Richardson Pioneer 

Masterfeeds 

H&L Motors 

Hanover Doors 

Denton Krentz 

Space Age Kal Tire 

Titan Trailers 

TC Energy 

HUB International 

LMS Ag 

MNP 

McVicar Farm Services 

Scotia Bank 

Cornerstone Timberframes 

KK Penner Tire Centres

 

With files from Carly Koop and Adi Loewen

 

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