Profit Tips

Positive Pork Packer, Feeder and Producer Margins

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 15:38:36 GMT

On the pork side, margins for both packers and producers remained positive with some improvement for producers last week as the W. Cornbelt lean carcass value was stronger to average $72.26/cwt. for the week.

Sterling’s estimate for farrow-to-finish margins was $12/head compared to $8/head the previous week, but still well below returns of $20/head a year ago. Packers lost ground paying more for hogs while facing a weaker cutout value. The Pork Cutout averaged $92.10/cwt. against $94.60/cwt. the prior week. Plant utilization remains strong.

View the full Sterling Pork Profit Tracker for the week ending Jan. 10.

The Beef and Pork Profit Trackers are calculated by Sterling Marketing, Vale, Ore.

(Note: The Sterling Beef Profit Tracker calculates an average beef cutout value for the week in its estimates for feedyard and packer margins. Other prices in the weekly Profit Tracker also are calculated weekly averages. Feedyard margins are calculated on a cash basis only with no adjustment for risk management practices. The Beef and Pork Profit Trackers are intended only as a benchmark for the average cash costs of feeding cattle and hogs. Sterling Marketing is a private, independent beef and pork consulting firm not associated with any packing company or livestock feeding enterprise.)

35th Annual K-State Swine Profitability Conference Set For Feb. 4

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 19:49:27 GMT

The 35th Make plans now to attend the 35^th Annual K-State Swine Profitability Conference to be hosted at the Stanley Stout Center in Manhattan, Kansas, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Please find the attached schedule for this year’s conference. We have a great program lined up for you including:

Current Profitability Situation and Insights into Pork Demand – Dr. Glynn Tonsor, K-State professor in Agricultural Economics
10 Habits of Highly Productive Pork Producers—Dr. Lisa Tokach, Abilene Animal Hospital
Our Generational Legacy Story – Michele Walter and Family, Keesecker Ag and 3MK Pork LLC
Macroeconomics of Global and US Grain and Oilseed Dynamics for 2025 — Brian Burke, president, John Stewart and Associates
Key Competencies that Enable Success of a Live-Hog Production System – Dr. Bradley Wolter, Windy Hill Meadows and former CEO of The Maschhoffs

The fee to register is $25 per person if paid by January 24 and $50 after that date or at the door. Registration is available online at www.KSUSwine.org .

Your next read: Pork Remains on Record Pace Alongside Robust Red Meat Exports in November

Out-of-the-Box Tips to Attract and Retain Good Employees

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Farmers are faced with a long list of challenges, but labor easily rises to the top of being the one constant pain point that all farmers struggle with. Three farmers share what they have done to keep their good employees, including how they hired some unique employees that have become a good fit for their operations.

Arizona

Like many farmers, Casey Dugan of Desperado Dairy and Du Brook Dairy admits they had a difficult time retaining dependable workers at their Casa Grande, Arizona dairies. That changed in 2018, when the dairy teamed up with the Florence West Prison to help fill the vacant positions.

In 2018, Dugan signed up for a rural leadership program, called Project Centrl, where the group toured rural industries, including a prison. The head warden spoke to the group about the Arizona Correctional Institute (ACI) work program. Dugan worked with the warden, getting ACI to come out to tour the entire Dugan dairy operation.

“They were super excited because a dairy farm is very structured and requires year-round work,” Dugan shares.

Desperado Dairy and Du Brook both incorporated inmates into their workforce soon after, and Dugan shares that at one point they had as many as 30 inmates working for them, but COVID shut that program down.

“This was a very scary time for us,” Dugan says. “We instantly had to make some changes.”

Today, Dugan has a dozen inmates working for the dairies. He says the biggest lesson he has learned by working with the inmate program is that everyone needs a second chance, give them time to learn and properly train them.

“Most people question hiring inmates,” he says. “But these guys in the work program are model inmates, meaning they went to prison because they got two DUI’s or something like that. And they really just want to work.”

Tennessee

The 2019 Top Producer of the Year Winner, Jimmy Tosh from Henry, Tenn., is a trailblazer in many ways. His farm grew from 300 acres and 1,000 feeder pigs to more than 18,000 acres of corn, soybeans, canola and wheat, and 38,000 sows that produce 850,000 market hogs annually. He says he is a crop farmer that got into hogs.

“I went in with the intention of building three buildings and now we have built 300,” he says.

While the growth this northwest Tennessee farm has seen is indeed admiral, Tosh is quick to say it takes an army to get all the work done. Today, the team at Tosh Farms includes nearly 500-plus full-time employees. Tosh and his wife, Alonna, have two sons, Jamey and Jonathan, who are involved in the business.

Tosh teamed up with Hope Center Ministries with their long-term rehabilitation center that gives women a chance to start over through counseling, vocational training and love.

“It’s been really about the most excellent thing I’ve done both from a business standpoint and a personal standpoint,” he says.

Currently Tosh employs 20 women from Hope Center Ministries, with a dozen who has gone through the rehabilitation program and have come to work for him full-time.

“Labor is challenging, and this program has filled a need there, but that’s minor compared to the satisfaction of helping turn lives around,” Tosh says. “A life is worth saving. Anything you can do to help save a life is very fulfilling. Being able to get workers on the farm is a big benefit, but it’s a side benefit.”

Wisconsin

For the last decade, Juan Quezada has served as the director of employee safety at Milk Source in Kaukauna, Wis. He shares that Milk Source’s onboarding process sets employees up for success by outlining what’s expected of employees and the employer.

“We got dreams, they got dreams, we all have goals,” he says. “We have a lot of different programs.”

For example, the company offers English classes for Spanish-speaking employees and a Spanish class for employees wishing to learn that language.

With more than 700 employees, establishing a positive work environment is a key part of the success of Milk Source’s retention program.

“The employee knows if you really care about them, or if you really only care to follow OSHA rules,” he says. “For us, we care about employees, and they know.”

According to Quezada, Milk Source’s structural system starts with establishing trust in the leader.

“Whether that be a manager or supervisor,” he says. “It’s key that the owner does not overstep. This is very important for us because I hear sometimes it can cause more damage if the owner steps in like you don’t trust the manager.”

Milk Source carves out time every single day to gather employees, even if it is just for a few minutes, to quickly talk about leadership, perspective and animal care.

“It is very rewarding,” Quezada shares. “The small details make the difference.”

He also shares starting the day with a greeting, like ‘good morning’ can make all the difference in the world.

“You don’t have to give them something big,” he says. “Sometimes very small things make all the difference.”

Indeed, sometimes the small things are all it takes to help retain employees. And, sometimes we must look outside the box and look at what other resources are available to hire employees, that spells a win-win for both your dairy and your community.

For more labor stories, read:

Congressmen Introduce Agricultural Fairs Rescue Act

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 13:50:08 GMT

Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) and Rep. Billy Long (R-MO) introduced the Agricultural Fairs Rescue Act on Thursday to help preserve agricultural fairs across the country and offset the devastating financial losses they have experienced due to COVID-19.

The legislation will provide $500 million in grant funding for agricultural fairs through state departments of agriculture to keep them functioning and preserve them for the future, according to a release.

The Agricultural Fair Rescue Grants would be administered by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) to states or state departments of agriculture based on the loss of attendance those fairs have experienced in 2020.

“County and local fairs are very important to agriculture and our communities all across our country. Fairs provide our producers with the opportunity to market their crops and livestock, and foster the next generation of farmers. They also are an economic engine and a gathering place for us to highlight and celebrate our communities. Like many institutions, fairs have been impacted by COVID-19, and we must provide them assistance if we are going to preserve these fairs for the future,” Panetta said in the release.

Agricultural and community fairs have been an important part of rural communities for over 250 years. State and local fairs provide farmers and ranchers with the opportunity to increase the public’s awareness of local agriculture.

“The global pandemic has caused fair cancellations around country in unprecedented numbers. As a result of these cancellations, fairs across the country are facing dire financial hardships. This is why National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) supports the Agricultural Fairs Rescue Act to ensure fairs receive the necessary resources to persevere and keep our rural communities strong,” said Barb Glenn, NASDA CEO, in the release.

Fairs also provide the future leaders of this country –4-H and FFA members – with vital leadership skills development, said Marla Calico, president and CEO of the International Association of Fairs & Expositions.

Farm Journal is disappointed that fairs and events are canceling, we are bringing a new American Farm Show to you! Farm Journal Field Days — a free virtual event Aug. 25-27. Do you have a 4-H member who is not able to show at their fair this year? Text photos or video of your 4-H’er and his or her project with the tag “FarmON” to 31313, or tag #FarmON on social media. Select photos and videos will be shown as part of the virtual #FarmON concert Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. Central on AgWeb.com, YouTube and RFD TV. Register now!

Read Our Extensive Coverage of Fairs During COVID-19:

Why COVID-19 Relief Should Include America’s Agricultural Fairs

State Fair Cancellations Shatter Dreams Across the Country

10 Realities Fairs Must Face Due to COVID-19

State Fairs in 2020: Decisions No One Wants to Make

The Importance of County Fairs

Overhe(a)rd: Screenhouses and the State of State Fairs

2020 Missouri State Fair Pivots to a Youth Livestock Show

Oklahoma State Fair Latest to Cancel for 2020

Kansas State Fair Cancels for First Time in Over 100 Years

Iowa State Fair Cancels for First Time Since World War II

Illinois State Fair Cancels, Offers Youth Show in September

Indiana State Fair Canceled, Plans for Modified Youth Livestock Show

Colorado State Fair Announces “Reimagined” Event

Quarantine Lessons You Can Only Learn in the Barn

New Group Backs Online Livestock Auctions for Youth Amidst Pandemic

Unpopular County Fair Opinion

Virtual and safe to attend, Farm Journal Field Days is designed for everyone! | Register at FarmJournalFieldDays.com

As Farmers Face Growing Stress, How to Navigate Mental Health Concerns

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 05:57:04 GMT

Farmers and ranchers continue to weather the extremes of 2020. From drought, derecho and wildfires, to a sudden loss in demand for dairy, 2020 is proving to be an obstacle course for agriculture.

“Probably most sectors of agriculture like crops, corn and beans and cattle and hogs are all facing added stress,” said Tim Homan of Rabo AgriFinance during Farm Journal Field Days in Iowa.

The financial frustration is mounting and bleeding over into mental health concerns.

“Farmers, even in best times, have a very high rate of suicide,” said Deborah Reed, with the University of Kentucky , during the Farm Journal Field Days hosted a mental health and managing stress on the farm discussion. “We don’t know what this particular time is going to bring, but we do know there are a lot more calls being made to the hotlines right now. So, we need some intervention.”

Reed says it’s not just farmers and ranchers on the frontlines feeling the impacts of added stress. She says entire farm families are feeling and experiencing increased pressure and concerns right now.

“We are hearing from a lot more farmers reaching out for help in various ways, and not just from the farmers themselves, but from their family members,” she adds. “It’s also children. We can’t forget those children on the farm.”

Reed says her biggest advice for families enduring added stress and trying to wade through all the uncertainty—take care of yourself first.

“As stress builds up, you not only have those physical consequences, but you’re not able to make decisions or you make poor decisions that affect your bottom line on the farm,” says Reed. “You have a chronic anxiety which affects everyone around you, you may actually exhibit clinical depression. And if it keeps going down, you could begin to have feelings of hopelessness. Maybe you’ve even thought of harming yourself. These are very serious outcomes.”

Those serious outcomes are what the American Soybean Association (ASA) and the United Soybean Board (USB) are trying to help prevent through a new effort called #SoyHelp.

“Our #SoyHelp campaign for farm stress is an initiative that really came from this COVID pandemic where we saw a clear connection, and our farmers indicated that they were experiencing high levels of stress,” says Wendy Brannen, senior director of marketing and communications for ASA.

ASA developed the Soy Help Farm Stress Initiative from a COVID task force the organization put together. As farmers gave input on how the pandemic was impacting them on a personal and professional level, Brannen says it became clear ASA needed to take action.

“We really wanted to go ahead and get these resources out there because of COVID and the stress that people were clearly experiencing,” she adds.

Brannen says seeing the need, the group created an inclusive campaign to help farmers reach out for help.

“Certainly, we wanted things that were specific to farmers, but we also wanted state specific resources,” she says. “We have about 30 soybean producing states that are really active in growing soybeans, and we wanted resources for them. We wanted national resources for the suicide help lines and those sorts of tools, as well.

From social media campaigns to news stories, Brannen says the conversation is continuing with the hashtag #soyhelp. It’s an evolving conversation Reed hopes will continue down the road as it’s important to recognize the signs of stress and know when it’s time to seek help.

“If you’re looking at your family members or your friends, I think anything that just seems out of character for them over a period of time,” says Reed about recognizing the signs that someone may need help. “Everybody has an off day, but if you notice that this is becoming a regular thing, and they have panic attacks or express increased anger or let the farm run down, those are real signs of saying, ‘Hey, how are you doing? Are you okay? Because this is a tough time for all of us.’ Giving them an opening like that, to mention it, that’s just a good way to open a conversation.”

Reed says having those candid conversations with the goal of opening up about mental health, could also help remove the stigma around mental health in agriculture for good.

Listen to the full discussion about “Mental Health and Managing Stress on the Farm”, visit Farm Journal Field Days .

Going Vegan Has Half Climate Change Impact of One Transatlantic Flight

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 05:50:38 GMT

Media reports sent a flurry of headlines Thursday suggesting consumers should eat less meat. These reports claimed a study from the United Nations suggested consumers should eat less meat in order to curb climate change. The report–from the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPPC) – looked into ways to reduce the impact on climate change.

Frank Mitloehner with University of California-Davis is frustrated with the media coverage so far, which he said started with news outlets in the United Kington. He said while the IPPC report focused on land use and land use change, it didn’t tell consumers to eat less meat.

“The IPCC said that we do need to visit our agricultural practices, we need to be more sustainable overall globally in how we grow food, and I totally agree with that,” Mitloehner says. “There are certain land use practices that are not sustainable. So, we have to think about how we do a better job. Where I differ in the reporting in them saying, ‘we need to change what we eat in order to curb climate change,’ they are putting us on the wrong path for solutions.”

He says by focusing on eating less meat, consumers are being misled on what’s really attributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

“If you were to switch from an omnivore diet to a vegan diet for one year, that would be half the impact of one flight from the United States to Europe with respect to carbon emissions,” he says. “Going vegan for one year is half the impact of one transatlantic flight. So, what I’m saying here is not there’s no impact, there certainly is an impact, but it is other day to day life choices that we make that are way more environmentally harmful.”

He thinks by the media focus on eating fewer burgers or eating less meat as a whole, it’s giving the other factors a “get out of jail free card” when it comes to lowering the impact on climate change.

“According to the Environmental Protection Agency, in the United States, of all greenhouse gases, the livestock sector emits a little bit less than 4%,” he says. “Contrast that to the 80% of those industries that consume very heavily fossil fuels: that’s transportation, power production that you use, and industries such as the cement industry. “

Mitloehner says what confuses people are when global numbers are used versus statistics from the U.S. He says those figures can be misleading. While the U.S. livestock industry emits less than 4%, globally livestock produces 14.5% of greenhouse gases. He says those claiming livestock is what’s causing climate change uses the international number, because it sounds more extreme or scary.

As media continue to report that IPCC wants consumers to eat less meat, he says agriculture has to play more offense on the issue. For example, instead of agriculture being the problem, those in agriculture should point out agriculture is actually the solution.

“Agriculture doesn’t just produce all the food we eat, they also are one of the two sectors of society that actually can sequester carbon, or that can reduce greenhouse gases,” he says. “Forestry and agriculture are the only two sectors that can reduce greenhouse gases, store these greenhouse gases in soils and or plants. In the United States, agriculture and forestry store more carbon than they release.”

He cites that’s a fact documented by EPA, proving the U.S is a leader worldwide when it comes to agriculture’s impact on climate change. While he thinks globally agriculture can do a better job of eliminating its impact on greenhouse gas emissions, other countries should use the U.S. as an example of how to do so.

Questions to Ask Your Lender Now

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:23:46 GMT

Turn the tables and seek insightful answers to better manage your farm

Do you feel like you’re in the hot seat any time you sit down with your banker? Instead of feeling vulnerable, be armed with your own questions. Use your lenders’ unique and valuable perspective to increase your financial acumen and discover a few new best practices.

“Your lender should be an indispensable partner in helping you grow your operation,” says Jessica Lehman, director of agribusiness banking at First Financial Bank . “You want someone who can provide perspective that will be both honest and beneficial.”

Be proactive in your dialogue and remove surprises with strong communication. Share the challenges you are facing, says Ben Pagel, president and CEO of Northeast Security Bank. “We don’t care how good it is or bad it is, just tell us how it is.”

Lehman, Pagel and Ashley Arrington, founder of ag consulting firm Agri Authority, suggest asking these questions when you meet with your lender this fall and winter.

Where do I stand compared to peers? How do I stack up against everyone else?
Are other farmers having the same problems I am?
What do you think is my operation’s biggest weakness?
What do you think is my operation’s biggest strength?
Are my loans structured correctly for the low-margin industry we’re in?
Has anything changed from last year in terms of lending standards? Are you offering any new programs? Have any of your processes changed?
What is your loan approval process? What are the hot button issues for your committee?
What do you base your loan rates on?
How could the outcome of the presidential election affect your bank? Do you expect your lending capacities to change?
How do you view government payments, such as (Market Facilitation Program) MFP or Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), on my balance sheet? How do they affect my creditworthiness?
What financial metrics are most important to you? What ranges should I aim for?
Based on my whole borrowing portfolio, what could I do better? Could I improve my cash flow?
As an ag lender, what keeps you up at night?

Numbers don’t lie but they rarely tell the whole story. Proactively share the story behind the numbers with a loan narrative. To learn the steps for a top-notch narrative, visit AgWeb.com/loan-narrative

The Clock is Ticking on Farm Journal Field Days! Register Now!

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:22:03 GMT

The Farm Journal Field Days agenda has been designed to address the biggest issues and challenges facing the agricultural industry right now. Farm Journal Field Days is days away! Plan to join us Aug. 25-27 for this free event.

Register today and mark your calendars so you don’t miss out on Farm Journal’s most anticipated event!

Here’s what you can expect from this event:

On-demand content featuring eBooks, videos, interactive resources, and more
A robust variety of keynote speakers
Exclusive insight to trends affecting the industry right now
A complimentary swag bag
Chances to win remarkable prizes, including a new tailgate grill
A FREE country concert featuring Lee Brice, Justin Moore, and MORE!

Register Now!

Introducing some of our keynote speakers:

Gian Paul Gonzalez
Gian Paul is widely recognized for inspiring the New York Giants to their most recent Super Bowl victory with the phrase “All In.” He has been featured on ESPN as well as had notable appearances on Fox News and CNN.

Eric Snodgrass
Eric Snodgrass is the Principal Atmospheric Scientist for Nutrien Ag Solutions, where he develops predictive, analytical software solutions to manage weather risk for global production agriculture.

David Kohl
Award-winning instructor David Kohl’s involvement with ag businesses and interaction with key thought leaders provides a unique perspective into future trends of the ag industry and economy.

Register Now!

The New American Farm Show™

Farm Journal is teaming up with the National 4-H Council to highlight the young women and men of 4-H who have raised livestock and completed projects this spring, making them the centerpiece of the FREE #FarmON benefit concert with headliner Lee Brice.

Text photos or video of your 4-H’er and his or her project with the tag “FarmON” to 31313, or tag #FarmON on social media. Select photos and videos will be shows as part of the virtual #FarmON concert Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. Central on AgWeb.com, YouTube and RFD TV.

8 Must-See Speakers at Farm Journal Field Days

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:21:18 GMT

These eight can’t-miss speakers at Farm Journal Field days arm you to overcome the (significant) challenges of 2020

By Mary Magnuson

In times of dramatic transition, good things come to those who lean in and adapt quickly. Clearly this is one of those times. And the team at Farm Journal is leaning in to bring you the first virtual farm show experience—and to help you find next steps that will position your farm to thrive.

Farm Journal Field Days , Aug. 25 to Aug. 27, will give you the insights you need today—without leaving your farm. It’s free, and convenient, so anyone on your team can jump online and take in a session or two. And you’ll find all the exclusive resources, amazing sessions, and insider tips you expect from a great event. Check out these 8 don’t-miss speakers—and save your seat today!

Resiliency: How to Live “ALL IN” and Overcome Obstacles with Gian Paul Gonzalez

Gian Paul Gonzalez is widely recognized for inspiring the New York Giants to their most recent Super Bowl victory with the phrase “All In.” He has been featured on ESPN, Fox News and CNN. And his inspirational talks have made him an internationally renowned speaker for the NBA, NFL, English Premiere League, MLS & Fortune 500 organizations. Gonzalez was a former NCAA First Team All-American forward from Montclair State University, scoring nearly 1,400 points in his three-year career. He played in the NBA Summer League and was offered professional basketball contracts, yet he turned them down to continue his work with at-risk youth. He’s the founder and executive director of Hope & Future, an organization using athletics and physical fitness to share a message of hope and excellence in inner-city public schools and juvenile jails.

Managing Through the Black Swan Cycle with David Kohl

Now and then we experience something completely unpredictable–and totally out of our control. Covid-19 is the epitome of that kind of black swan event, and it will clearly transform agriculture. But how? David Kohl, professor emeritus of agricultural finance at Virginia Tech University, has a few ideas. “It’s time to step back, reinvent yourself, and find the silver linings the situation offers,” he says. Kohl’s involvement with ag businesses and interaction with key thought leaders provide a unique perspective into future trends of the ag industry and economy. Don’t miss this opportunity to leverage his timely insights for your farm.

2021 Cash Rental Negotiations: Overcome the Noise and Negotiate Like A Pro with Chris Barron, Ag View Solutions; Mark Faust, Echelon Management; Ryan Bristle, Russell Consulting

2021 land rental discussions are now upon farmers. To successfully negotiate win-win agreements, you need to answer four key questions. Our experts will dive into these four topics and provide first-hand experience.

Trends and Predictions for Used Machinery Values with Greg Peterson

Greg Peterson has over 25 years of experience in the machinery business. His website, MachineryPete.com, is the premier, online destination for farmers and dealers, providing a comprehensive used farm equipment search experience with tens of thousands of farm equipment listings. The site also offers dealers innovative multimedia marketing solutions, including local market intelligence, targeted online advertising and site analytics. His auction pricing database (available with subscription) totals close to 500,000 auction sale prices on roughly 70 categories of equipment, making it the most comprehensive and complete of its kind. He authors regular columns for Farm Journal and Top Producer.

Marketing According to Jerry: Life Lessons Learned in 30 Years of Grain Marketing with Jerry Gulke

Jerry Gulke lives at the busy intersection of corn, soybeans, wheat, and smart business—and he walks his talk as a farmer in northern Illinois. He’s a respected consultant, a contributor to Top Producer magazine, and he makes regular appearances on ag radio and television programs, including “AgWeb Radio,” “U.S. Farm Report” and “Squawk on the Street.”

Predicting Chaos — Weather Risk in Production Agriculture with Eric Snodgrass

Eric Snodgrass is the Principal Atmospheric Scientist for Nutrien Ag Solutions, where he develops predictive, analytical software to help agricultural producers manage weather risk. His frequent weather updates focus on how high-impact weather events influence global agriculture productivity.

John’s World: Be Realistic, Even Pessimistic, Without Being Discouraged

Illinois farmer John Phipps writes humor and commentary columns for Farm Journal and Top Producer—making him the perfect person to talk about keeping difficult situations in perspective. He’s also the TV host of the renown “U.S. Farm Report.”

Business Leaders Share Turnaround Tips for Tough Times with Mark Faust

Since 1990, Mark Faust has run Echelon Management, a growth consulting firm—making him the perfect source for best practices and growth strategies at Farm Journal Field Days. Faust is also an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati and Ohio University; an adviser on company boards, CEOs, and business owners; and he has conducted hundreds of sessions for dozens of the world’s largest companies including John Deere, Apple, Bayer, IBM, and P&G. Now he’s conducting a session just for you.

The Farm Journal Field Days will end with the #FarmON Benefit Concert , headlined by Grammy-nominated and ACM award-winning country artist Lee Brice, who joins a slate of top country performers in a free virtual concert. As the grand finale of Farm Journal Field Days, the concert is Farm Journal’s way of saying thank you to everyone in agriculture for keeping our nation’s food supply moving forward.

For a program agenda or more information about Farm Journal Field Days and the #FarmON Virtual Benefit Concert, which are both FREE, go to www.FarmJournalFieldDays.com .

Gian Paul Gonzalez to Share Inspiration at Farm Journal Field Days

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:21:18 GMT

By Mary Magnuson

In 2011, speaker Gian Paul Gonzalez led the New York Giants to a Super Bowl victory with his famed ‘all in’ speech. And now, as the keynote speaker for Farm Journal Field Days 2020, he’s ready to inspire you.

His focus: Resiliency. Gonzalez works everyday to help people overcome obstacles. And on Aug. 27, it’s your turn to bounce back and get fired up.

Farm Journal Field Days is a three-day virtual conference taking place Aug. 25 to Aug. 27. The groundbreaking event will bring together stakeholders across agriculture. The goal: Inspire excellence and resilience during this unprecedented crisis.

It’s completely free, and as a registrant you’ll get access to far more than this inspiring keynote session. You can choose from more than 100 expert-led sessions from meteorologist Eric Snodgrass, economist David Kohl, entrepreneur Mark Faust, Machinery Pete, and many more leaders in ag. Field Days will conclude with a #FarmON concert headlined by country music legend Lee Brice that benefits 4-H and showcases the young women and men who raised livestock and completed projects this spring.

The team at Farm Journal sees Farm Journal Field Days as an investment in the future of farmers and farming—and a way to support, encourage and empower the ag community.

“[Hope] is the best thing you can play for and live for,” Gonzalez said in a 2017 Ted Talk. “If you give somebody hope, they believe they can have a future.”

Through his organization Hope & Future, which helps at-risk youth using athletics and fitness, Gonzalez delivers this message every day. And it’s one we could all use right now.

Gonzalez had great success as a collegiate basketball player, scoring nearly 1,400 points over his three-year career. He made All-American and participated in the NBA summer league, but ultimately decided to continue his work with youth instead of going pro.

Register today to participate in Gonzalez’s uplifting session and to take advantage of all the insights, resources, networking and inspiration available from Farm Journal Field Days.

The Power of Two Words: ‘All In’

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:21:18 GMT

Imagine this: A high school teacher in Union City, N.J., receives a call. He’s asked to lead a chapel service for the New York Giants the night before their 2011 Christmas Eve game against the New York Jets.

On Dec. 23, Gian Paul Gonzalez stands before the team, who face tough odds of making the playoffs, and hands each player a poker chip. He asks them to write their initials on one side and their number or a top commitment on the other side. The team pushes the chips to the center of the table.

“Sometimes we’ve got to step up and be all in,” Gonzalez tells the group. “You have to be willing to say, ‘I’m going to be all in and risk everything and bet everything.’”

A Champion Attitude

Gonzalez, a former All-American forward, who passed up a professional basketball contract to continue his work with at-risk youth, urged the players to fully commit to anything they take on, whether as a father, husband, son or even, a football player.

Just two words — all in — served as a rally cry. The next day, the Giants beat the Jets 29-4. The Giants kept winning and went on to be the Super Bowl XLVI champs, beating the New England Patriots 21-17.

Invitation To Learn

Gonzalez is quick to downplay his role in the Giants’ wins, but it’s evident his message of hope and dedication was heard. He’s an inspiration himself; he founded Hope + Future, an organization using physical fitness to share a message of hope in inner-city public schools and juvenile jails.

Are you ready to be inspired by Gonzalez? Join us at Farm Journal Field Days , a virtual education and networking event happening Aug. 25–27. He will share his advice around resiliency, a message we could all use right now.

Whether you join for one hour or 20, this event gives you the chance to learn at your own pace and network with others. Join your peers, industry leaders and favorite Top Producer experts. Learn more and register at FarmJournalFieldDays.com .

Don't Miss It! Farm Journal Field Days Registration Is Open.

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:21:03 GMT

A wealth of agriculture innovation, technology and practical know-how are about to be available to you with the launch of the first-ever Farm Journal Field Days .

This one-of-a-kind, new show features more than 100 free informational sessions. You’ll get on-site and virtual discussions, tours, agronomic and management solutions and presentations from key industry leaders, all over the course of three days — August 25, 26 and 27.

Farm Journal understands the importance and value of farm community events and the need for deeper connections for members of the ag industry, now more than ever. The company has used strategic and insightful leadership to design Field Days, so its informative sessions will be available to you live and also on-demand.

There’s more exciting news to come — including a complete lineup of exclusive speakers — so this is just a sampling of what you can expect:

Powerful and Insightful Speakers: Hear from leading experts such as meteorologist Eric Snodgrass, ag economist David Kohl, machinery expert Greg Peterson, Farm Journal columnist John Phipps and more!
Easy Access: Since it is online, you are not limited by geography or time restraints. This type of programming is more convenient in every way.
On-Demand Learning: Even though the virtual event spans three days, you can learn at your own pace. Log on at certain times to hear your favorite speakers, and then you can revisit other topics when you have the time.
Interactive Farm Tours: Take a behind-the-scenes look at our two hosts farms—Blue Diamond Farming Company in Jesup, Iowa, and Newcomer Farms in Bryan, Ohio.
A Safe Environment: You don’t have to worry about safety or health concerns. Farm Journal understand being #Covidsafe is essential.
Opportunity to Learn As a Team: Normally, only one or two folks from your family or farm can attend in-person events. With Farm Journal Field Days, you can all learn together. Make the lunch hour a watch party, and then discuss what you learn.
Direct Access to Exhibitors: You can visit their virtual booths, ask questions and learn about their latest offerings.
It’s Free: To access the 100-plus sessions, you simply have to register—at no cost to you!

Along with the great opportunities to learn innovative information you can put to work on your farm or ranch, you’ll get to enjoy Grammy-nominated, award-winning country artist Lee Brice in an exclusive #FarmON benefit concert. He joins a slate of top country performers in a free, virtual concert. As the grand finale of Farm Journal Field Days, the concert is Farm Journal’s way of saying thank you to everyone in agriculture for keeping our nation’s food supply moving forward.

Donations from the concert will benefit the National 4-H Council’s FOURWARD fund.

To register and learn more information about Farm Journal Field Days and the #FarmON Virtual Benefit Concert, go to www.FarmJournalFieldDays.com .

7 Must-See Livestock Speakers at Farm Journal Field Days

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:21:03 GMT

By Mary Magnuson

In the old days—like last year—you’d have to pack your boots, raincoat and sunscreen and take three days away from your farm to get the cutting-edge information a farm show offers. Not any more.

Tune into Farm Journal Field Days —Aug. 25 to Aug. 27—and enjoy all the benefits of the first virtual farm show experience. Of course, there’s no travel. So no time away from your farm. It’s free—and convenient—so anyone on your team can jump online and take in a session or two. And you’ll find all the exclusive resources, amazing sessions, and insider tips you expect from a great event.

View the current agenda.

Check out these 7 don’t-miss speakers—and register your team today!

What Will Livestock Technology Look Like in the Face of COVID-19?
Speakers: Dan Thomson & Aidan Connolly

Dan Thomson is a third-generation bovine veterinarian from Clearfield, Iowa. An internationally recognized leader in animal welfare, beef cattle production and cattle health management, Thomson is the founder and host of Doc Talk, a nationally aired television show about beef cattle health that reaches more than 45 million homes world-wide.
Aidan Connolly is CEO of Cainthus, an Irish artificial intelligence company that uses computer vision to monitor animals. Cainthus combines unparalleled expertise and cutting-edge innovation to passively monitor cows and farm management practices 24/7, alerting the farmer when it matters most.

Prenups, Postnups and Buy-Sell Agreements ... Oh My! How to Keep Assets in the Blood
Speaker: Polly Dobbs

As the owner of Dobbs Legal Group, LLC, Polly Dobbs focuses on estate and wealth transfer planning and business succession planning. Having grown up on a farm, she understands the issues facing farm families, and she has extensive experience in farm succession planning. Her passion lies in helping family-owned farms and closely held businesses achieve a smooth succession.

COVID-19’s Financial Impact on Farmers
Speaker: Paul Neiffer

Paul Neiffer, CPA, is an agribusiness certified public accountant and business adviser with CliftonLarsonAllen specializing in income taxation, accounting services and succession planning for farmers and agribusiness processors. He’s a regular speaker at national conferences and he authors a monthly column for Top Producer and agweb.com.

How Do I Motivate “Joe” And Myself?
Speakers: Sarah Beth Aubrey & Bob Milligan

Sarah Beth Aubrey’s mission is to enhance success and profitability in agriculture by building capacity in people. She strives to foster that potential through one-on-one executive coaching, facilitating peer groups and leading boards through change-based planning initiatives. She’s the author of five books, she serves as adjunct faculty member at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, and she writes the Farm CEO Coach column in Top Producer.
Bob Milligan is a senior consultant with Dairy Strategies, LLC, and Professor Emeritus at Cornell University. His goal: Success for owners, managers, and employees through increased performance and enhanced job satisfaction. He focuses on human resource management, strategy, and organizational development for small business managers.

Trends and Predictions for Used Machinery Values
Speaker: Greg Peterson

Greg Peterson has over 25 years of experience in the machinery business. His website, MachineryPete.com, is the premier, online destination for farmers and dealers, providing a comprehensive used farm equipment search experience with tens of thousands of farm equipment listings. The site also offers dealers innovative multimedia marketing solutions, including local market intelligence, targeted online advertising and site analytics. His auction pricing database (available with subscription) totals close to 500,000 auction sale prices on roughly 70 categories of equipment, making it the most comprehensive and complete of its kind. He authors regular columns for Farm Journal and Top Producer.

Register now for the Farm Journal Field Days!

So You Need Some Extra Labor Force on the Farm?

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:09:47 GMT

As the American farm continues to grow and evolve, the need for extra labor within these operations is also exhibiting the same parallel trend. Unfortunately, many of us as agriculture producers did not sign on to become human resource managers, when we entered into the occupation of agricultural production. In addition, agricultural producers, as a group, tend to be very independent, do it ourselves types, and the transition into being people managers instead of maybe “livestock or crop managers” is not the easiest. Thus, if we are going to be successful in the future and our success is dependent upon hired labor, we need that managers must develop the skills to manage people.

Recruitment & Hiring

Once an operation has determined they need to hire someone either part-time or full time, they will need to put together a plan for recruiting and hiring outstanding staff. No simple or even complex recipe guarantees hiring success. Luck is not the answer. Agriculture cannot meet its goals by hiring at the bottom of the barrel. We need to attract good people who are willing to work for others. The employer who seems lucky in always finding high quality people rarely is in fact lucky. Instead, such producers are depending on carefully made plans and a reputation as an excellent employer that has been patiently built. The answer to hiring a good employee lies in developing a plan for filling positions.

Checklist
The following eight steps suggest a checklist that managers can utilize in helping them to succeed in hiring a quality employee.

Determine the labor and management needs of the farm business that the new employee is expected to address.
Develop a current job description based on the needs.
Build a pool of applicants. (Ask yourself if you would work for you. Become known as the place to work, instead of the place not to go to work for. This will help build your pool of applicants.)
Review applications and select those to be interviewed.
Interview
Check references / background checks
Make a selection
Hire

Values

Another factor that needs to be considered is personal values. Ask yourself what is important to you as a person. Are you courageous, respectful, a collaborator, driven by performance, have a positive attitude, are you driven by success, honorable, trustworthy, these are among many, many values that you may have as a person. Take a true look at your values and try to hire people with similar values as you. You will be more apt to connect with that person or group as they work in your operation towards your overall purpose, vision and mission of your operation.

The Bottom Line

Farm managers face a major challenge in finding and keeping quality employees. The recipe for farm success is complex. Animals, equipment, financing, land and buildings matter a great deal. People also matter. To a great extent, managers reach their goals through people. Getting things done through people requires competent employees. Mediocrity in filling positions can make a huge difference over time. To have competent employees, people who have the potential of being competent need to be hired. The question is: Do I maximize my chances of hiring the “right” people or do I leave my success to chance? Each farm employer answers this question directly or indirectly and then lives with the answer. Lastly, remember to “hire for attitude and train for aptitude”.

* Adapted from “Recruiting and Hiring Outstanding Staff”; Bernard L. Erven, Department of Ag, Environmental & Development Economics, Ohio State University.

So You Need Some Extra Labor Force on the Farm?

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:09:43 GMT

Tracey Erickson, South Dakota State University Extension

Recruitment & Hiring

Determine the labor and management needs of the farm business that the new employee is expected to address.
Develop a current job description based on the needs.
Build a pool of applicants. (Ask yourself if you would work for you. Become known as the place to work, instead of the place not to go to work for. This will help build your pool of applicants.)
Review applications and select those to be interviewed.
Interview
Check references / background checks
Make a selection
Hire

Values

The Bottom Line

* Adapted from “Recruiting and Hiring Outstanding Staff”; Bernard L. Erven, Department of Ag, Environmental & Development Economics, Ohio State University.

Should You Take An MFP Payment?

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 05:05:52 GMT

For several weeks, farmers have been debating amongst each other the virtue of taking a Market Facilitation Program payment. While some say taking the payment is promoting President Donald Trump’s “bad behavior,” others won’t be farming in 2020 without the money. Others are torn about the decision for personal reasons.

While most producers who are considering forgoing the payments have done their research, Alan Hoskins, of American Farm Mortgage, recommends a deep dive into why you’re planning to refuse them.

“If you are uncertain as to whether you should take the payment, talk to someone you have a lot of faith in from a character perspective before you make your final decision,” he says.

Moreover, make sure you’re not making this decision in hopes that it will shift the political environment--because it won’t.

“Not taking the payment is not going to affect anything politically,” Hoskins says. “Not taking the payment for ethics or internal belief about right or wrong is one thing, but it will not facilitate a change in the political environment.”

Still, there is no amount of money worth compromising personal beliefs, Hoskins says.

“Anytime somebody is doing something that potentially makes them uncomfortable from a moral perspective, the fact that you’re questioning it at all is probably a pretty good indicator you don’t feel comfortable doing it,” he says. “There is no amount of money, in my opinion, that would or should ease a moral question about an action that you’re preparing to take.”

He says candidly if someone has a moral objection to the payments, regardless of financial position, “morality should always trump finances.” No pun intended.

Live and Let Live

This decision is very personal and will vary from producer to producer, and as such, Hoskins says, farmers should stop judging each other about such a choice.

“I know producers that are absolutely adamant about not working on Sundays regardless of the circumstances and I know other producers who are perfectly comfortable working on Sundays,” he explains. “That is a personal decision, and neither one of them should look at the other and make judgments about their neighbor’s actions because both are doing what they believe is the correct thing within their being.”

MFP is no different.

Here’s what a few farmers on Twitter are saying about the subject:

I have no problem with farm-socialism. If your philosophy causes you ulcers about government-supported agriculture, consider food security a national security issue. Perhaps the most important national security issue as we move forward. Rename it to Strategic Farming Reserves.
— Rinny (@RinnyTheGopher) August 6, 2019

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As Farmers Face Growing Stress, How to Navigate Mental Health Concerns

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Questions to Ask Your Lender Now

Turn the tables and seek insightful answers to better manage your farm

The Clock is Ticking on Farm Journal Field Days! Register Now!

Register Now!

Introducing some of our keynote speakers:

The New American Farm Show™

8 Must-See Speakers at Farm Journal Field Days

These eight can’t-miss speakers at Farm Journal Field days arm you to overcome the (significant) challenges of 2020

Resiliency: How to Live “ALL IN” and Overcome Obstacles with Gian Paul Gonzalez

Managing Through the Black Swan Cycle with David Kohl

2021 Cash Rental Negotiations: Overcome the Noise and Negotiate Like A Pro with Chris Barron, Ag View Solutions; Mark Faust, Echelon Management; Ryan Bristle, Russell Consulting

Trends and Predictions for Used Machinery Values with Greg Peterson

Marketing According to Jerry: Life Lessons Learned in 30 Years of Grain Marketing with Jerry Gulke

Predicting Chaos — Weather Risk in Production Agriculture with Eric Snodgrass

John’s World: Be Realistic, Even Pessimistic, Without Being Discouraged

Business Leaders Share Turnaround Tips for Tough Times with Mark Faust

Gian Paul Gonzalez to Share Inspiration at Farm Journal Field Days

The Power of Two Words: ‘All In’

A Champion Attitude

Invitation To Learn

Don't Miss It! Farm Journal Field Days Registration Is Open.

7 Must-See Livestock Speakers at Farm Journal Field Days

What Will Livestock Technology Look Like in the Face of COVID-19?Speakers: Dan Thomson & Aidan Connolly

Prenups, Postnups and Buy-Sell Agreements ... Oh My! How to Keep Assets in the BloodSpeaker: Polly Dobbs

COVID-19’s Financial Impact on FarmersSpeaker: Paul Neiffer

How Do I Motivate “Joe” And Myself?Speakers: Sarah Beth Aubrey & Bob Milligan

Trends and Predictions for Used Machinery ValuesSpeaker: Greg Peterson

Register now for the Farm Journal Field Days!

So You Need Some Extra Labor Force on the Farm?

Recruitment & Hiring

Values

The Bottom Line

So You Need Some Extra Labor Force on the Farm?

Tracey Erickson, South Dakota State University Extension

Recruitment & Hiring

Values

The Bottom Line

Should You Take An MFP Payment?

What Will Livestock Technology Look Like in the Face of COVID-19?
Speakers: Dan Thomson & Aidan Connolly

Prenups, Postnups and Buy-Sell Agreements ... Oh My! How to Keep Assets in the Blood
Speaker: Polly Dobbs

COVID-19’s Financial Impact on Farmers
Speaker: Paul Neiffer

How Do I Motivate “Joe” And Myself?
Speakers: Sarah Beth Aubrey & Bob Milligan

Trends and Predictions for Used Machinery Values
Speaker: Greg Peterson