Midland® Farmer Spotlight: Long-Range Radios in Kansas

In southeast Kansas, farming takes teamwork, timing, and reliable communication, which is why long-range radios play such a critical role in getting the job done.

Midland agriculture partner, Austin Debusk, staying connected across fields and equipment helps keep planting season running smoothly, ensuring every part of the job stays efficient, coordinated, and on track.

About Austin Debusk

In southeast Kansas, farming is more than a career for Austin Debusk. It's a lifestyle built on consistency, hard work, and strong roots in agriculture. Operating in a region where Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arkansas meet, Austin is part of a team managing a diverse farm that includes corn, soybeans, wheat, and cattle.

Austin's connection to farming started early. Growing up, he spent time helping his grandpa, learning the fundamentals that would later shape his future. After high school, he attended trade school, but it didn't take long for the farm to call him back. A visit to his brother's wheat harvest crew quickly turned into an opportunity, leading to two summers working harvest across multiple farms.

The hands-on experience reinforced what he already knew. Farming was where he belonged.

A Love for Farming That Runs Deep

For Debusk, farming isn't just about the work. It's about the process and the payoff that comes with it.

From long days in the field to carefully maintaining equipment, every task plays a role in the bigger picture. While there is always something that needs to be done, Debusk finds the most satisfaction in operating machinery.

"Running the equipment is definitely my favorite part," Debusk says. "There's something about being in control of that machinery, watching the crops come in, and seeing the results of all your hard work. That's when it all comes together."

That connection to the land and the equipment is what keeps him motivated through the demanding seasons. Farming requires attention to detail, patience, and the ability to adapt quickly, especially when conditions change.

In southeast Kansas, those changes can happen fast. One day might bring warm temperatures, while the next brings cold air or rain. Staying ready and making the most of the right conditions is critical.

Long-Range Radios Keep the Operation Moving

When it comes to keeping everything running smoothly, communication is key. That's where long-range radios play an essential role in Austin's daily work.

During planting season, multiple pieces of equipment are often operating at the same time across large areas. Having reliable communication between team members helps ensure everything stays on track.

Debusk and his crew rely on Midland® long-range radios, specifically GMRS:

These tools make it easy to stay connected across the entire operation, whether in the cab of a tractor or out in the field.

"We'll probably be planting corn and beans at the same time, so we can communicate back and forth between the planter and the drill," he said.

With long-range radios, the crew can coordinate tasks in real time. If someone is running seed out to the field, they can quickly reach everyone at once. If another team member is operating in a tillage tractor, they can stay in constant contact without missing a beat.

Unlike cell phones, which can struggle with unreliable service in rural areas, long-range radios provide consistent, instant communication. There's no waiting, no dropped calls, and no guessing.

That level of reliability helps the team stay efficient, especially during high-pressure times like planting season.

Two-Way Radios Built for the Field

Midland's two-way radio solutions are designed to meet the demands of agriculture. From powerful MicroMobile units installed in tractors or other machinery to portable walkie talkies used across the farm, each device plays a role in keeping communication simple and effective.

The MicroMobile radios offer strong performance with extended range, making them ideal for larger operations. Paired with accessories like the SPK200 external speaker, communication stays clear even in loud equipment environments.

Portable walkie talkies like the GXT67PRO and GXT3000 give team members flexibility when they are moving between tasks or working outside of vehicles.

For Austin and his crew, having a mix of these options means they are always connected, no matter where the work takes them.

Long-range radios aren't just a convenience. They're a critical tool that supports productivity, safety, and coordination across the farm.

April on the Farm

As winter wraps up, preparation shifts into action. April marks the beginning of one of the most important times of the year on the farm.

Leading up to planting season, Debusk and his team focus on getting equipment ready. Maintenance, repairs, and inspections ensure everything is in working order before heading into the fields.

"We've just been working on equipment, getting ready for when the ground dries up," he said.

Once conditions are right, the pace picks up quickly. Early in the month, the goal is to begin planting soybeans. As April progresses, attention turns to getting corn in the ground as well.

Timing is everything.

The team is waiting for a consistent weather window. That window is when everything shifts into high gear.

"That's when you'll see everyone make a push to get everything in the ground," he said.

With the right equipment, including long-range radios, Debusk and his team are ready to take on the challenges of planting season.