Bob hosted scores of visitors throughout Nebraska, the U.S. and foreign nations. Their operation was known for innovations in feed lot design, feedlot run-off control using settling areas and holding ponds, irrigation scheduling, irrigation run-off re-use systems, chemigation, reduced pressure pivot irrigation for energy conservation, and modified reduced tillage farming methods. His operation evolved into a model family farm addressing the need for space, safety, efficiency, and neatness.
It's a pleasure to honor our friend Bob Weber tonight and we're glad that John and Joel could join Judy for this wonderful evening.
A partial list of accomplishments of Bob Weber is printed on the program. I'm going to add to that list and add some personal comments, which have been restricted after Dave McGill told me the speech would be given to the Nebraska State Historical Society.
Farm Bureau had a news release about a "Farm Executive" program at Texas A and M recently. Bob Weber participated in this executive program in 1993. Being a top producer, focusing on cost control, keeping good records, and having a sound marketing program are some elements to being a good farm manager. The professor in charge of the program, Dr. Danny Kleinfetter, wrote that farm executives have some additional traits. First, they adapt to changing needs of the markets, they're open to exploring new ideas. They operate more as "resource managers" than producers and they realize the importance of networking and developing alliances across the value chain. Usually they are strategic planners who "envision a goal" and figure out the skills and resources needed to get there.
According to Dr. Kleinfetter, the top farm executives operate in a "continuous improvement mode." They seek input and expertise from outside the business. They see themselves as more of a "head coach" than a boss and seem to lead people rather than drive people. They spend time monitoring and analyzing performance and they work hard at communications to make sure their team has a shared vision of a goal. That looks like a description of Coach Bob Weber.
Let me share the Mission Statement of Weber and Sons with you. "The mission of this business is to engage in and be leaders in agricultural production in a manner that is productive and profitable for ourselves and our community and to practice good stewardship of all our resources." Weber and Sons have four goals. First, "To be the most productive and progressive producer we can be." Second, "To place stewardship as a top priority." Third, "To provide an environment in which everyone associated with this business can achieve personal satisfaction." This goal is inclusive in that it addresses the need for good personal relations both internally and externally and the need for profitability. And fourth, "To contribute to the well-being of the community." Contribution includes participation and leadership. Everyone at Weber and Sons is encouraged to be part of their community.
The Weber's have hosted scores of visitors from all over the U.S. and dozens of foreign nations as well as various Nebraska groups. Their operation is noted for the innovations they have made over the years, including feed lot design, feedlot run-off control using settling areas and holding ponds, irrigation scheduling, irrigation run-off re-use systems, chemigation, reduced pressure pivot irrigation for energy conservation, and modified reduced tillage farming methods. Their operation has evolved into a modern model family farm that addresses the need for space, safety, efficiency, and neatness.
Trees and plantings provide shade, protection, and aesthetics yet not interfere with clearance for machinery. His farm office has evolved into a highly effective business environment with a constantly updated computer system. They were early adopters who used computer analysis for each part of their operation.
Bob has given generously of his time to the organizations listed on your program. In addition, he has served on the Board for the Dorchester Farmers Co-Op. He was Chairman for the Nebraska Farm Bureau's Statewide Future Committee and served on the Policy Committee for four years. He received the state and the regional Kiwanis Farm Family Award. He has served on the N N 21 Food System Committee, U N-L Chancellor's Board of Visitors, and is very active on the Administrative Board of Directors of the Dorchester United Methodist Church, where he is currently the Chairman of the Church Building Project.
Bob served 15 years on the Board of the Nebraska Rural Radio Association, including six as Vice President. His time and advice were really appreciated. He was particularly good on computers strategic planning. He was a pleasure to work with and was the E.F. Hutton voice of the Board: when Bob spoke, everyone listened.
And now it's time for Bob to speak. Please welcome our honoree……Robert Weber.
