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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
Farming is an essential and, at times, underappreciated profession.....But this is important to know. About two million people are engaged in farming every day. That means they're responsible for feeding approximately 320 million Americans, along with exporting enough to feed an additional 150 million others.... It's remarkable to hear the numbers and think about the fact that one American farmer is capable of feeding about 160 people....
This is a critically important industry to us and to Russell and Valerie Spencer. They opened Spencer Ag in Duchesne two years ago to serve farmers in the Uintah Basin area...It's convenient, since the closest provider is 30 miles away; plus, they understand how important farming is. As a fourth-generation farmer, Russell feels a deep connection to other farmers and the area. And Valerie's family has lived there for years so, as Valerie says, these are locals running a successful and growing local business.
Spencer Ag provides fertilizer, chemicals and seeds to farmers in their area. The Spencers maintain a warehouse with a large supply of crop inputs — that way, when people call, Russell personally delivers the supplies. He also applies all fertilizer and spray himself.
In a smaller market, this is a big word of mouth business. Neighbors spread the word, and Russell keeps very busy. Valerie says 90 percent of their clients stay loyal to Spencer Ag once they've worked with Russell. While spring and summer are by far their busiest seasons, there's still work to do in the fall and winter. Many farmers want to do fall fertilizer before the snow, and certain types can be put on even with snow on the ground.
The Spencers have been in this business now for 11 years ... They spent a good deal of the early years partnering with Valerie's parents, since Val's dad is a crop duster. Russell loves the flexibility of being his own boss at Spencer Ag, and that means sometimes taking the kids with him when he's working... Of course they love it!
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
Spencer Ag PO Box 375 Duchesne, UT 84021 435-823-5258
