What a good salary for a full time experienced row crop operation only?

I work as a farm manager and my salary is at the high end of the range of the other postings here. I am basically the owner's replacement doing most everything except writing the checks and selling the grain. I have worked as a grunt employee over the years for a couple of different operations and I can tell you that money will only last so long as a motivator for an employee especially if the weekly pay is fixed and the hours are long. A good employee wants to make a difference and to feel as if he is contributing toward the success of the operation. My current employer asks for my input and considers my perspective even if he doesn't follow all of my suggestions. My suggestion is that whoever you hire, give them the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to your operation. Encourage them to go to farm shows, get additional training in areas they are interested in, and occasionally ask for their input on decisions. In short - make them feel appreciated and challenge them with new responsibilities as they show that they are capable. Do this, and you'll find that you'll keep good employees even if you are not paying them top dollar.