March 20 was the first day of spring. Could you tell? If winter still
has you in its grip, check these directions so you’ll recognize the
signs of a new season.
You know it’s almost spring when…
… you spot the first gopher of the year. (March 2, 10 miles east of
Pincher Creek, Alta., in my case.)
… you can see roadmaps in the bleary red eyes of the local
veterinarian as he starts the last leg of calving season.
Read Also
Worrisome drop in grain prices
Prices had been softening for most of the previous month, but heading into the Labour Day long weekend, the price drops were startling.
… you suddenly become intrigued by new technologies in spray nozzles.
… The Western Producer is full of ads for seed varieties and farm
chemicals.
… your kitchen table is stacked with seed catalogues and flyers.
… there are bull sales everywhere, and you attend even if you don’t
need a bull.
… the kids get excited when they spot the first robin of the year.
… inventory expands at local farm equipment dealerships.
… there’s a home and garden show on the weekend.
… snowmobile tracks in the field begin to fade.
… the horses leave tufts of winter hair on posts and barbed wire
fences.
… puddles look good to you.
… your annual spring cold attacks.
… the jackrabbits turn brown again.
… the first shoots of green quack grass show up in that warm spot by
the barn.
… you don’t use your headlights as often.
… soil tests are a goal.
… the river ice starts to move out.
… the feds release another incarnation of the species-at-risk bill.
… fertilizer prices rise.
… new frost heaves appear in the road.
… you scrutinize the south end of calves for signs of scours.
… you recall the repairs to the air seeder that you were going to
make last year.
… you get your 17th farm survey from some agency or other.
… the store in town fills up with chocolate eggs and bunnies.
… you eye the new line of pick-up trucks and think about zero percent
financing.
… the spectre of income tax filing looms.
… road bans are implemented just when you plan to haul something
heavy.
… sunshine on dripping icicles dazzles the eyes.
… Flicka has her foal.
… American farmers get more subsidies.
… it’s time to plant the sweet peas.
… birds act like they’re taking vitamin supplements.
… you swap the winter felt Stetson for the straw.
