Big changes in farming, regulations in 72 years

By Kay S. Pedrotti

In a ground-zero position of observation for 72 years, members of the Akins family of Barnesville say farming and agriculture needs have undergone enormous changes since 1940.

Current manager Bruce Akins, son, grandson and nephew of the family members who founded Akins Farm and Home, says he now needs innumerable separate licenses for all his services and products -- there is no such thing as spraying a field or mixing fertilizer without approval of the state.