Reflections on a busy year in agriculture

By Ava Kerner of Burke, S.D.
Dec 1, 2025
Dec 1, 2025

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As I write my final report, I’ve been thinking about everything this past year that has been accomplished for our operation, as well as everyone else in my area. Each season has brought something different, and looking back, it’s clear this year was shaped by changing weather, steady progress and plenty of long days. What stands out the most is how unpredictable things were and how much we adjusted along the way.

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Ava Kerner and her nephew do chores on their Gregory County farm.
Submitted photo

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Ava Kerner and her best friend, Aubree Miller, pose at the District 4 FFA competition Monday, Nov. 17.
Submitted photo

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Youth Crop Watcher Ava Kerner is the daughter of Julie and Steve Kerner of Burke, South Dakota. She is a senior at Burke High School. She is FFA secretary for the Gregory County chapter and the District 4 Sentinel.