Opinion: The Rapture Is Upon Us ... So Now What?

As I write this, many are still recovering from the whirlwind that was 2011 and casting bleary eyes toward what’s to come this new year. Of course, what if this year was the last one ... ever? According to some prophecy pundits, the end of the world will coincide with the conclusion of the Mayan calendar on Dec. 21, 2012, coincidentally my birthday. Interpretation of the ancient day planner indicates a series of cataclysmic events are to unravel on that fateful day.

Taken with a grain of salt, especially given past failed predictions of Armageddon (two just last year), what if there was some kind of confirmed validity for this foreboding forecast? I’m sure there are plenty of ways you can come up with to spend your final days. For the purpose of this exercise though, I’m asking you to put your personal bucket lists aside and wear your business hat. So, if you had nothing to lose, what things would you do with or to your operation that you may not have considered otherwise? Here are some possible suggestions to get you thinking.

New Ways To Grow

All growers, at one time or another, have done the math and tried to figure out ways to get the most out of their crops in the most efficient way possible. Inputs, equipment, and techniques aplenty are out there. It’s just a matter of finding the best fit for your operation and its budget. In this case, though, money isn’t an object since credit will be a moot point come Dec. 21. So, let’s go shopping. Beginning in the “A” aisle, we have advanced citrus production systems. This relatively new concept, which incorporates intensive fertigation, high-density planting, and the right kind of rootstock, has been shown to produce fruit quicker and at a higher yield. Some citrus growers are reaping the benefits of using this system. See what pieces of the puzzle are needed to make it work by clicking here.

Let’s not stop there. How about hydroponics? High tunnels, anyone? Space-age precision ag systems? The selections in this field are vast, but we must move on.

Picking Crops And More

There must be something you always wanted to grow, but for one reason or another, don’t. Once again, taking the “nothing to lose” approach, what would it be? Something exotic, rare, ... illegal? Once considered “alternative crops” for Florida, blueberries, peaches, and pomegranates are finding a place on more local farms. Your inspiration could be the next cash crop.

The above considerations barely scratch the surface, but it should be enough to get you started. Whether or not you believe the world is going to end in a few months, the fact is we still have a finite amount of time to accomplish all we desire. Be it personal or business, act now. Time is wasting.