At Benchmark Farms, irrigation is not just a necessity; it's the lifeline of their entire operation. Gilbert Hintz, the owner of Benchmark Farms, understands the importance of a reliable irrigation system, especially in the arid climate where water is the most valuable resource. In a recent interview, Gilbert shared his experience working with Lad Irrigation on a massive 1,650-acre turnkey irrigation development.
"I think an irrigation development is definitely a long-term commitment," Gilbert began. "It's not a quick flip of a year turnaround. When you start incurring long-term debt, you want to make sure you compare up with long-term income potential. That marriage has to happen, and here in the desert, the number one income stream is water."
This project, completed by Lad Irrigation, was no small feat. Gilbert expressed his gratitude towards the team, acknowledging the expertise and dedication of Nick, and the rest of the Lad Irrigation team. "Thank you, Nick, and the team. I know there's a lot of people that Nick can delegate to, and taking those ideas off of paper and fleshing them out in real life, that's a skill set that Lad has developed over the years."
One of the highlights of Gilbert's experience was the seamless collaboration and the lack of any regrets. "I've got a satisfied mind; I have zero buyers' remorse," he said with confidence. The dedication of Lad Irrigation's employees played a crucial role in this. "I value those loyal soldiers in my own operation. I value them in Lad Irrigation's operation because that's what really helps timeliness, completion of projects, and what I call the loose ends getting swept up again."
Â
The five-year project required immense coordination, skill, and a shared vision. Gilbert was particularly impressed with Lad's ability to bring a project from a dream on paper to a tangible reality. "Well, we have certainly started on paper and a dream. I've told my kids the biggest key to Benchmark's success has just been a lot of sweat equity and a dream in your back pocket. And I think Lad has been able to instill that sweat equity into their employee base."
Staying on time and on budget is a significant achievement in any large-scale project, and Lad Irrigation excelled in this regard. Gilbert praised their ability to meet deadlines and manage budgets effectively, a trait he finds increasingly rare in the public sector. "I think our private sector is the last standing entity that can stay on budget and stay on time with project completions. We don't see that happening in our public sector very rarely anymore."
Â
For Gilbert, the ultimate reward is a healthy, growing crop. "At the end of the day, if I don't produce, I don't eat. Our tractors run a thousand hours a year. These circles run 3,000 hours a year. So definitely the irrigation equipment is the hero of the farm."
Â
Benchmark Farms stands as a testament to the excellence of Lad Irrigation. Through hard work, dedication, and a shared vision, they've transformed a dream into a thriving reality. For Gilbert Hintz, Lad Irrigation is more than just a service provider; they're a trusted partner in the journey towards agricultural success.
###
Comments