Extension
It Starts With Us
Farm Management
Family/Farm Financial Management & Improved Agriculture Production Skills
S. Campbell, T. Yankey
Farm Management
Ag Policy
4-H Volunteer Programming
Anderson County farmers are experiencing change in agriculture. Commodity prices are at or near all- time lows for corn, soybeans and wheat. Adding to the concern for the farming community is the impact trade tariffs with China and other countries are having on the overall farm economy. At the same time, all cost continue to creep up for fuel, fertilizer, feed and chemicals.
Gross receipts for Kentucky’s vegetables/fruit industry has seen steady growth while the green industry, (greenhouses, sod operations, plant nurseries) along with the forestry sector are seeing an increased demand due to the robust housing market that is currently occurring.
Despite the strong fundamentals, feed prices, market volatility, and access to credit are creating challenges for many Kentucky producers. Hay supplies are at historically low levels. With corn and soybean use exceeding production and ending stocks for corn domestically projected to decrease by about 25% and soybeans projected to decrease 9% price volatility will make it important for farmers to be aware of production costs as well as have a marketing plan. Increased tariffs placed on China and their retaliation by placing tariffs on corn and soybeans have had a dramatic impact on domestic corn and soybean sales. Commodity prices are extremely low. In many cases not even above breakeven cost of production. It is forecast that between 15-20 million acres of corn may not be planted due to inability to plant because of wet weather. This may offer a rally in prices for some farmers as the combination of lower acres and yields suggest a potoential for a futures rally for corn from $5-$5.50 per bvushel and from $9-$10 per bushel for soybeans. For those forunate enough to get their crops planted this may offer a little hope for farmers suffering from low commodity prices.
The Master Tobacco Settlement Agreement (Phase 1) continues to provide incentives for farmers to improve their farming practices by providing cost share dollars for approved practices.
Agricultural producers use best management practices and at the same time sustaining the farm family competitiveness of their farm operation
Agricultural producers adopt and utilize technology and production practices in beef, dairy, crops, forages and horticulture.
Farmers minimize the cost of production while maximizing the competitiveness.
Youth can apply their knowledge of animal care and/or agriculture related endeavors
Agricultural producers gain skills in management of farming operations.
Youth understand the importance of sustainable local agriculture to individual health and financial well-being
Initial Outcome: Producers will develop more knowledge of marketing opportunities and learn to use risk management to protect their investments
Indicator: Number of producers reporting change and new knowledge
Method: Face-to-face interviews.
Timeline: Throughout the year
Intermediate Outcome: Farmers participating in Phase I programs
Indicator: Number of farmers submitting applications for Phase I funds
Method: Applications received
Timeline: Late summer - Fall
Long-Term Outcome: Farmers implement practices learned in Master Series Programming
Indicator: Practices adopted to improve farm profitability
Method: Surveys, oral feedback and on-farm demonstrations
Timeline: All year
Audience: Local farmers, beef producers, Cattleman's Association
Project or Activity: Farmers will be made aware of opportunities available through the Ky Beef Network throughout the year
Content or Curriculum: Research based approved publications
Inputs: Publications, UK agriculture specialists, guest speakers
Date: All year
Audience: 4-H Livestock Club members; 4-H Horse Club members
Project or Activity: Livestock and Horse club meetings and competitions
Content or Curriculum: 4-H project materials
Inputs: Club meetings, competitions, training, field days
Method: Judging competitions, oral reasons, quiz and other events
Date: Sept. - August.
