By Maeve Katics
At the core of every thriving agricultural operation, beyond the rows of crops and the hum of equipment, you’ll find people. Fostering a strong workplace culture and building a cohesive team isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s as critical as a nutrient plan or an irrigation system. Teamwork isn’t merely a strategy. It’s the energy that carries us through tough jobs and long days under the sun.
I still remember the heat of an August afternoon in the Midwest—humidity draped over everything like a wet blanket. At my summer job as a kid, we had our share of tough assignments, but pushing the floating docks back to shore? That was the worst. The task itself was straightforward: gather a dozen of us, jump into the murky water, and push until the algae-coated, zebra-mussel-laden docks made it safely to land. They were heavy, slippery, and always offered the possibility of a disgruntled snapping turtle. Still, somehow, morale stayed high.
Why? Because we did it together.
Instead of splitting off into separate efforts, we moved like a crew. One person counted to keep our efforts in sync. Someone cracked a joke and got a laugh. Gloves were passed around. Not because anyone told us to, but because we understood that sweat and teamwork went hand in hand.
And then—when the job was finally done, when the last dock was finally back to shore—our boss appeared with a grin and a cooler full of freezie pops. Ice-cold, rainbow-colored, and glorious. They weren’t just a reward; they were a celebration. A gesture that said, You mattered. That work mattered. And we did it together.
That moment didn’t just bring the dock back—it built culture. We felt appreciated and connected. And while the freezie pops were delicious (seriously, nothing beats blue raspberry after manual labor), what meant more was what they represented: recognition, camaraderie, and shared purpose.
Teambuilding isn’t always about workshops or structured programs. Sometimes, it’s as simple as showing up with a cooler and a smile. Sometimes, it’s about knowing when to say, I see how hard you worked—and I’m grateful.
Whether you’re a crew leader, a farm owner, or someone in the thick of it, take a moment to think about the memories that define your team. What challenges have you faced together? What simple victories have you celebrated? In those stories lie the roots of your culture—and the promise of what your team can grow into.
