They stand silent in open fields dotted across the county landscape, ready to do their intended job.

Large bales of hay — some standing guard in rows and others alone like sentries — can be found throughout Lafayette County during the hot days of July.

Soon the hay bales will be ready to use for feed for the area cattle farms when the fields and their lush green grass has turned brown.

But for now, the hay bales will keep watch and waiting.

Photos by Bruce Newman