Feeders Grain & Farm Supply
Recently, I had the chance to document a visit to Julian Lumber alongside Erica from Feeders Grain & Farm Supply—and let me tell you, this wasn’t just another media job. It was a glimpse into a process that’s been refined since the 1970s and still powers the posts that hold up fences across the Midwest.
Capturing the Legacy
Julian Lumber began back in 1974–75, when Robert Julian took a chance on a simple idea: fence posts. That vision has grown into a trusted operation that’s been supplying quality treated wood products for decades. As we toured the facility, Tony—who’s been with the company since 2000—shared insights on how they’ve evolved while staying true to their roots.
Watching the Process Unfold
One of my favorite parts of documenting projects like this is capturing the process. And Julian’s is as hands-on as it is impressive.
It all starts with raw tree-length timber—stacked and ready for transformation. The crews unload, cut, peel, and prep each log with precision. Watching the green chain in action as posts were hand-sorted, bundled, and left to air-dry made me appreciate just how much time and care goes into every single product.
Filming the pressure treatment cylinder—where creosote posts are vacuum-sealed and infused with oil—was a standout moment.
Breaking Down the Treatments
One thing I learned while filming: not all treated posts are created equal.
Julian offers both Creosote and CCA (Chromated Copper Arsenate) treatments. Capturing Tony explain the difference on camera was powerful—because it’s not just technical, it’s regional and personal. Creosote is oil-based, perfect for colder climates like Iowa where freeze-thaw matters. CCA is water-based, common in southern regions, and comes with a 25-year ground contact rating. At Feeders Grain, that deep-black creosote post is a staple—and for good reason. It’s durable, proven, and farmers swear by it.
What Quality Looks Like
Behind every shot I took, I could tell one thing for certain: these people care. Moisture meters, detailed inspections, and a "don’t ship it unless it’s right" mindset show up in every step. Julian Lumber doesn’t just produce a product—they stand behind it. That commitment matches Feeders Grain’s own standard, which made this shoot feel more like storytelling than content creation.
Inventory That Fits the Job
Here’s a snapshot of what Julian offers—filming the size variety and organized yard was a dream:
- Posts: 6.5 ft (2"–5") and 8 ft (4"–8")
- Barn poles: 10'–25' with 5–6” tops
- Best-sellers: 4", 5", 6" round
- Hard-to-source: 3.5” in bulk (especially popular in Nebraska!)
Whether your job is big or small, they’ve got posts ready to perform.
Final Reflections from Behind the Camera
This wasn’t just another client shoot—it was a chance to capture something genuine. Two family-owned businesses working together, built on mutual trust and shared values. From the dusty yard to the steady hum of treatment tanks, I left knowing that Feeders Grain isn’t just selling a product—they’re standing behind a process they believe in.
Check out the full video tour I filmed with Erica and Tony at Julian Lumber. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of what goes into every post—and why it matters.
Click here -> https://youtu.be/k1-cSmSk4Aw
—
Jade Made Media – Documenting stories built to last.
“Fence posts that stand the test of time—just like the relationships behind them.”
