"My opinion of the whole situation is that they are just buying work"

It would be good if more kids in America did this, even if it is a money pit.  Maybe subsidize the corn for them so they can make a little more, nothing like teaching them to work and the responsibility.  I fed livestock when in school and probably lost money in the end, but my dad subsidized the feed so I thought I was making money.  Taught me the most valuable lessons in life.  And I'm still addicted to it.  Don't know if that is good or bad.