I love being an ag writer. I’m blessed to have the opportunity to blend two passions — working with great people and writing about all things agricultural. Over the years I’ve learned that there’s also a nifty side benefit. After I do an article, I can sometimes take what I’ve learned and drag it home to use on my own small Wabash/Miami County farm! In this case, it was improving my farm through pattern drainage. My inspirations were many. From Purdue University agronomist Eileen Kladivko, I learned about the benefits of pattern drainage on heavy, wet soils like Blount and Pewamo. From multiple Purdue Farm Management Tours, I learned how top-tier farmers see drainage as one of the first places to invest their dollars.