## 2j. Farmer

Farmers might raise crops, livestock, poultry, fish and shellfish, or produce dairy products, ornamental plants or nursery products. Some farmers raise both crops and livestock or produce food for their animals on the farm. Each type of farming requires specialized skills and knowledge.

A farmer who raises only crops will be responsible for preparing land for planting, caring for the crops and harvesting. Some farmers sell their own crops at market, while others have contracts with processing companies or other organizations. Crops can include livestock feed such as hay or grain, fruits and vegetables for human consumption or specialty crops such as cotton. In addition to planting, the farmer must keep fields watered, fertilized and free of weeds that compete with the crops. Farmers who raise livestock might also raise crops to feed their animals, in which case they may also need to store their crops to feed the animals during the winter months.

Farmers who concentrate on livestock might breed and raise their own animals, although some buy their animals at a young age and then raise them for sale, slaughter or show. Livestock can include food animals such as cattle, sheep and pigs, animals used for pleasure such as riding horses or exotic animals such as bison. Each type of animal requires specialized knowledge and management. Some, such as horses, need to be trained. Dairy farmers must milk their animals and handle the milk. Animals often need routine vaccinations, worming or other care that the farmer manages or performs.

You can learn some more about farming from English teacher & farmer Bob: