Working Conditions for Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers<The work of farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers is often strenuous; work hours are frequently long; and they rarely have days off during the planting, growing, and harvesting seasons. Nevertheless, for those who enter farming or ranching, the disadvantages are outweighed by the quality of life in a rural area, working outdoors, being self-employed, and making a living working the land. Farmers and farm managers on crop farms usually work from sunrise to sunset during the planting and harvesting seasons. During the rest of the year they plan next season�s crops, market their output, and repair machinery; some may earn additional income by working a second job off the farm. On livestock producing farms and ranches, work goes on throughout the year. Animals, unless they are grazing, must be fed and watered every day, and dairy cows must be milked two or three times a day. Many livestock and dairy farmers monitor and attend to the health of their herds, which may include assisting in the birthing of animals. Such farmers rarely get the chance to get away unless they hire an assistant or arrange for a temporary substitute. Farmers who grow produce and perishables have different demands on their time. For example, organic farmers must maintain cover crops during the cold months, which keep them occupied with farming beyond the typical growing season. Farm work also can be hazardous. Tractors and other farm machinery can cause serious injury, and workers must be constantly alert on the job. The proper operation of equipment and handling of chemicals is necessary to avoid accidents and protect the environment. On very large farms, farmers spend substantial time meeting with farm managers or farm supervisors in charge of various activities. Professional farm managers overseeing several farms may divide their time between traveling to meet farmers or landowners and planning the farm operations in their offices. As farming practices and agricultural technology become more sophisticated, farmers and farm managers are spending more time in offices and at computers, where they electronically manage many aspects of their businesses. Some farmers also spend time at conferences, particularly during the winter months, exchanging information. More information on Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers< from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers< occupation Number of Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers< in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers< Working conditions for Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers< Significant points for Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers< Training requirements for Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers< Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |