I’ve spent most of my career working alongside producers here in Westman, and one thing that hasn’t changed is how unpredictable our growing seasons can be. We can plan, prepare, and hope for the best — but as every farmer knows, Mother Nature tends to have her own schedule.

That’s why scouting remains one of the most valuable tools we have. Getting out into your fields regularly gives you a clear picture of what’s really happening — the progress, the challenges, and sometimes the surprises. It’s that firsthand knowledge that helps you make the right calls for your operation.

I’ve seen many growers start the season with a solid plan, but after a few scouting trips, we uncover small adjustments that can make a big difference. Whether it’s nutrient tweaks, timing changes, or pest control strategies, those insights often translate directly into better yields and more efficient use of inputs.

At Valleyview Co-op, we’ve built long-standing relationships with our members. Many of the fields we walk each year are ones we know inside and out — and that familiarity means we can spot even subtle changes from one season to the next.

For those who want an even deeper look, Co-op AgZone Field provides detailed scouting reports and NDVI imaging. The platform not only provides you with data to help make decisions about products and applications, but also allows your agronomist to build a historical profile that can inform future decisions.

Whether we’re walking rows together or reviewing images from above, the goal is always the same: to understand what’s happening on your land and give your crop every opportunity to succeed.