2020 Spring Farm Outlook

2020 Logan County Farm Outlook LINCOLN DAILY NEWS March 19, 2020 Page 5 For soybeans the numbers are a bit lower at $573 gross revenue, $184 direct costs, $103 power costs, and $68 total overhead costs for land costs and operator profit of $218 per acre. All looks good until you compare the end figures with the average cash rent figures for the county leaving a net loss for both crops. As noted in previous editions, there is an increasing trend of female farm operators. The 2017 Census of Agriculture reports over 25% of the producers in Logan County were female. Another interesting note was over 20% of producers were in the new and beginning farmer category. And, 49% of Logan County farms have sales of over $100,000, while 24% have sales of less than $2,500. The total value of the products sold from Logan County farms in 2017 was $245,684,000. Specialty crops continue to be of interest to local producers. Relatively new crops for producers to consider are industrial hemp, and even marijuana for medical and recreational use. Along with these new ventures comes a tremendous amount of paperwork, including permits and their associated fees. Many new agriculture and horticulture related jobs are being created to support these industries. More traditional enterprises being pursued include specialty livestock, edible produce, fall decorative items, and farm entertainment activities. Production agriculture continues to be one of the most dangerous occupations. There have been recent instances of tragic accidents and even deaths in our state. Farmers and first responders do have an opportunity to learn about safety in many areas including grain handling systems and grain storage bins. If you are in the industry, or serve as a first responder, by all means take advantage of a workshop offered by the Grain Handling Safety Coalition. You will learn about safety equipment and procedures, as well as the common sense practices to stay safe in these systems. For all of us, with increased equipment traffic on roads, everyone needs to be mindful of the size of the equipment and the speed it travels at. Both equipment and vehicle operators need to remain alert to keep roads safe at all times, but particularly during the busy farming seasons of planting and harvest. As spring continues to head our way, let’s remain positive and look forward to the opportunities agriculture provides to us as individuals, families, and our community.