Top Five Concerns for Nebraska Farmers in 2009

Last modified on 2010-02-09 03:07:37 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau has released a list of the top five agricultural problems for Nebraska producers in 2009.

It is not a surprise to many that the number one concern for producers in 2009 was the livestock industry. With such epidemics as the H1N1 virus, many people were apprehensive to buy pork. There was also a strong decline in exports overseas. Farm Bureau President Keith Olsen said, “The year 2009 was a year most livestock farmers would like to forget.”

The second biggest concern was a late harvest. The harvest was comparable to the slowest harvest ever recorded in 1972. The high moisture level in the soil was to blame.

Water problems and developments with the Republican River compliance, The Lower Platte Basin and integrated management plans also greatly affected producers in 2009. “Agriculture has a lot of issues related to water that are being dealt with,” Olsen said.

Another problem in 2009 was the increase of interest in animal cruelty and production tools. Many bans and plans for laws put a strain on many producers. This includes animal tagging and the treatment of livestock animals.

Finally the use of commodity check-off funds influenced the industry by helping balance the state’s deficient.

Farm loan rates starting at 2.99%. Lock in before farm loan rates rise. Contact Farm Plus by clicking here or calling toll free 866-929-5585.

 

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And the Survey Says…

Last modified on 2010-02-09 02:32:38 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Regional bankers in Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma and Missouri took part in a survey that shows farm values have decreased, but are steady.

Compared to the last quarter in 2008, non-irrigated farmland in Nebraska dropped 4.8 percent and irrigated fell 4.7 percent. Ranch land dropped 5.3 percent.

Overall, regionally non-irrigated farmland dropped 1.7 percent and irrigated 3 percent. Ranch land has fallen by 4.2 percent.

Experts believe these numbers will stay consistent over the next three months.

One major contributing factor to the decrease is that farm incomes quickly changed from record heights to below $50,000 annually. This is the lowest it has been since 2003.

Looking to refinance your farm loan before inflation hits? Farm Loan interest rates starting at 2.93% and terms up to 25 years. See our rate sheet or call 866-929-5585 to speak with a representative.

 

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Nebraska Farmers Join FSA Committee

Last modified on 2009-12-08 18:51:09 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Five Nebraska farmers have been appointed to the Nebraska Farm Service Agency’s state committee.

Susan Frazier of Fillmore County has been appointed chairwoman of the committee. Other farmers appointed include Fred Christensen of Burt County, Norma Hall of Cass County, Leo Hoehn of Scotts Bluff County and James Ziebarth of Franklin County.

This committee is in charge of the agency’s activities such as carrying out conservation programs, resolving appeals from the agriculture community and informing producers about the agency’s program.

Visit the Nebraska Farm Service Agency’s website here.

Inflation fears? Refinance with Farm Plus before farm loan rates rise. Farm loan rates starting at 2.99% with 25 year terms. See our rate sheet here or call, toll free, 866-929-5585

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NE Harvests Lagging

Last modified on 2009-12-08 17:10:17 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Wet, soggy weather has been pushing harvesting dates back across the country, especially in Nebraska.

The USDA reports that the combination of excessive rainfall and last week’s snowfall across the state has pushed harvesting back by three weeks. This is the lowest average the state has had since 1982.

The good news is although harvesting is behind, the crop is 80 percent good which is up by four percent from 2008.

Are you in the market for a farm loan? Farm Plus has low-rate farm loans starting at 2.99%. Call 866-929-5585 to speak with a representative or visit our website for more information.

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Corn Stover Needed for Strong Soil

Last modified on 2009-12-08 17:02:58 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

With a struggling economy, farmers are always looking for a way to make extra money. One way is to sell plant residue left behind from harvested cornfields.

This residue, known as corn stover, is purchased by energy companies to be turned into pellets for coal-fired power plants. The practice can bring in $20 per ton and most farms produce three tons per acre.

However, the University of Nebraska- Lincoln conducted research and found that farmers need the nutrients in the corn stover for good soil structure.

Farmers who sell this residue must replace the nutrients with fertilizer. The amount of money for fertilizer can range from $17 to $46 a ton.

Farm loan rates starting at 2.99%. Lock in before farm loan rates rise. Contact Farm Plus by clicking here or calling toll free 866-929-5585.

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Soybeans are the IT Crop

Last modified on 2009-12-08 19:06:21 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Although soybeans are the most desired crop in the U.S. this season, they are at their lowest price this month and most of it is thanks to favorable weather this summer.

Nebraska is the fifth-biggest soybean-producer and found that pod counts are up 9.1 percent from last year. Experts say the crop is “unbelievable” and the weather is to thank.

Prices for soybeans dropped to its lowest of $9.405, its lowest since July 30. However, it made a recovery to $9.58 a bundle.

Soybeans are the second-biggest crop bringing in $27.4 billion annually. Act now to join the booming industry.

Need a low-rate farm loan to help give your business a boost? Contact Farm Plus today! Call 866-929-5585 to speak with a representative or visit our website for more information.

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Emergecy Loans Available for Nebraska Farmers

Last modified on 2009-09-24 18:42:31 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) of Perkins County announced that family farmers in Hayes, Perkins and Valley counties (Nebraska) are eligible for emergency loans. These loans are available following excessive rain, hail, high winds and flooding that occurred on June 6, 2009.

The loans are to cover any production or physical losses caused by the bad weather. If farmers are qualified for these loans, they are also eligible for the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Program (SURE).

SURE is available not only for these three counties, but Chase, Deuel, Frontier, Greeley, Keith, Sherman, Custer, Dundy, Garfield, Hitchcock, Lindon and Wheeler. All 15 counties have been declared disaster areas by U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack this season.

Loan applications must be submitted through FSA offices from any applicant who has physical or production loss up to 30 percent. Those eligible must be established family farmers with proof of loss. The low-interest loans may cover up to 100 percent of losses, but cannot exceed $500,000.

Currently loan rates are at 3.75 percent and all applications must be submitted by April 26, 2010.

In the market for a low-rate farm loan? Contact Farm Plus today! We even work alongside government agencies like the FSA to get you the low-rate farm loans you need! Call 866-929-5585 to speak with a representative or visit our website for more information.

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NE Ranchers Look for More Assistance

Last modified on 2009-08-28 23:06:21 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Nebraska ranchers feel that the government’s assistance falls short when compared to the losses they have faced so far in 2009.

4,000 cattle were lost this year from harsh weather conditions. This equates to 1,300 pounds of meat. The USDA has offered assistance, but many ranchers feels it is not enough.

Nebraska Cattlemen Vice President Michael Kelsey said, “What they’re proposing to do at this point is to value cattle closer to 400 pound range versus end of weight range which again would be 1,200-1,300 pounds.”

The assistance comes from the Livestock Indemnity Program, and many Nebraska cattleman are pushing for a change.

“That category’s too big,” Kelsey said. “They need to subcategorize. Maybe 4-800 pounds, 8-1,000 and 1,000 to mature weight.”

Do you need a farm loan? Contact Farm Plus today for information about low-rate farm loans. Call 866-929-5585 or visit our website for more information on farm loans and ranch loans.

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Introducing: Maxine Moul

Last modified on 2009-08-28 22:36:04 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Nebraska, meet your new new director of the USDA’s Rural Development, Maxine Moul.

A business woman her whole career, Moul was appointed by President Barack Obama to lead the department. Moul is excited for all the opportunities the USDA has to help farmers and those in rural areas.

There are $195 million worth of USDA loans for 40 USDA loan programs Moul said. Even if rural businesses fail, the USDA assures banks that loans will be paid. To qualify for the loans the business must be approved by a bank, then state USDA offices and ultimately finalized by approval from the federal USDA offices.

A second program is for those interested in purchasing energy-saving equipment for rural businesses and homes. This includes heating and cooling systems and windows. Loans are available for all incomes and types of homes or businesses.

Are you looking for a bank’s approval to obtain a USDA loan? Farm Plus Financial works with government agencies to help you get the loans you need. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information.

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Cattle Tested Positive

Last modified on 2009-06-16 22:15:37 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

A herd of beef cattle in Rock County, Nebraska has been tested for tuberculosis.

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) and the USDA are working with the cattle producer to put the herd in quarantine and conduct additional testing. An epidemiological investigation is also going on.

The producer is cooperating with the agencies to assure the problem is controlled. Other ranches in the area are being testing to assure the disease has not spread further.

If you are looking to start a ranch contact Farm Plus today for a low-rate ranch loan. Loans are available for all your ranching needs and a representative is waiting to speak with you. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information about ranch loans.

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Organic Loans Available in Nebraska

Last modified on 2009-05-21 21:20:12 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Nebraska producers looking to go organic have the opportunity to apply for loans stemming from the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. $2 million is available as part of the Natural Resources Conservation Service that originates in the 2002 Farm Bill. The program is designed to help producers and ranchers conserve that land.

Participants will be required to rotate crops, use cover crops, have a nutrient program and use prescribed grazing.

Producers must apply by May 29 for initial consideration. If producers apply after they will be considered after those who met the deadline.

If you are interested in a farm loan contact Farm Plus today. Farm Plus works alongside government agencies to get the loans you need. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information about farm loans and ranch loans.

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Farmland Values Increased

Last modified on 2009-05-21 21:01:43 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

According to the Federal Reserve farmland values appear to have stabilize in the first quarter of 2009.

The increase is promising after a the decline at the end of 2008.

The report released numbers for Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Wyoming, New Mexico and Missouri.

Although overall farmland has increased, nonirrigated farmland did not change and ranchland declined 0.9 percent.

Demand for farmland has decreased with the economic crisis. However, it is important to realize that low rate loans are available today. Farm Plus has many farm loans available. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online to speak with a representative about farm loans today.

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Hearings Wanted in Nebraska

Last modified on 2009-05-21 20:59:05 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

The Nebraska Farm Bureau and two livestock organizations would like the United States Department of Agriculture to hear the concerns and questions from Nebraska livestock producers regarding the National Animal Identification System.

The Midwest has the most livestock in the country and will therefore be affected by the National Animal Identification System. Leaders would therefore like to see a hearing held in Omaha to talk to all producers.

The NAIS suggested a microchip be put on every livestock animal to trace their wear abouts to control disease outbreaks.

Critics feel these unnecessary measures put a huge damper on livestock owners and take away from their privacy.

So far hearings have been held in Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Texas and Washington.

“Nebraska’s cattlemen have a number of concerns with NAIS, including confidentiality, so USDA is doing a disservice to itself by ignoring their input,” said Mike Kelsey, executive director of Nebraska Cattlemen.

If you are a farmer or rancher in Nebraska looking for a loan, contact Farm Plus today. Low rate farm loans are available for your convenience! Call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information about farm loans and ranch loans.

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USDA Funding Available for Organic Farmers

Last modified on 2009-04-07 02:06:13 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Greg Ibach, Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director, announced that Nebraska will receive funding from the USDA to aid organic producers and processor with certification costs.

Ibach told reporters, “Nebraska’s organic industry continues to grow. This cost-share program will provide our producers with an incentive to continue its growth.” He added that Nebraska producers were able to use $35,000 in funds from the same program in 2005 and 2006.

The National Organic Program’s (NOP) Cosy-Share Program is part of the 2008 Farm Bill to help producers and handlers of agriculture products to obtain organic certification under the NOP guidelines.

For more information on the program call (402) 471.4876.

If you are interested in purchasing farmland for organic, or conventional use call Farm Plus today. Farm Plus works with government agencies like the USDA and Farmer Mac to obatain loans for farmers or potential farmers. Low rate farm loans are available so call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information about farm loans.

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Farmers Markets Gain Popularity

Last modified on 2009-03-20 00:53:19 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

One way to see the increase in productions is to look at the local farmer markets. The Ottumwa Farmers Market (Iowa) has seen a great increase in vendors and customers over the last few years according to the Ottumwa Courier.

The 2007 Census of Agriculture backs this idea up. It reported that there was a great increase in fruit and vegetable production in Iowa from 2002 to 2007. The numbers show the harvesting for vegetable sales increased from 752 to 881.

“Historically, fruit and vegetable production isn’t up that much. But what we are seeing are more growers involved and more dollars,” State Horiculturist Mike Bevins said.

Bevins blames the trend and increased vendors on the fact that instead of purchasing farms that cover a lot of farms, there is an increase in small, family farms. He also notes that farmers make more money selling directly to the consumer instead of through a middleman like contractors or processors.

Farmers are the only ones changing, consumers are becoming more health conscious.

“People are more interested in the quality and the health of the food they’re eating,” said Ed McDowell, president of the Ottumwa Farmers Market Association. “They want them as fresh as they can get them.”

Interested in purchasing a farm? Farm loans are available today. Farm Plus is ready to work with you and government agencies to get the farm loan you need. Rates are at historic lows, now is the time to get a farm loan. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information regarding farm loans.

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Nebraska Farmers Eligible for FSA Loans

Last modified on 2009-03-20 00:41:33 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) will provide $145 million in loans to U.S. farmers. $13.8 million will go to 229 farmers in Nebraska.

The money is part of the federal government’s $787 billion economic stimulus package. The FSA is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Of the total amount it was awarded $173 in stimulus money. The agencies wants to provide loans up to $300,000 to farmers that will be used to cover operating expenses.

For more information regarding operating lines through FSA visit their website or for  further information about farm land loans, contact Farm Plus Finacial.  You can reach a loan specialists by calling 866-929-5585 or by clicking here.

If you are interested in purchasing a farm please contact Farm Plus today for a farm loan. Farm loans are available. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information regarding farm loans.

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100-Cow Program Helps Ranchers

Last modified on 2009-02-25 20:57:28 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

A small school in western Nebraska is making the dreams of ranchers a reality with the new 100-Cow Program. The 100-Cow program would-be ranchers low-interest, government loans up to $300,000 once they complete a ranch management course.

The course teaches students the best way to raise livestock, how to run a successful ranch business and how to complete a business plan to present to the U.S. Agriculture Department’s Farm Service Agency.  Experts think this will be a successful program that will be a template for the rest of America.

New ranchers are excited about the program. “Not only have I been hoping for the past 15 years that I could own cattle of my own, I’m now seeing it becoming a real possibility,” said Richard Cool, a 35-year-old ranch hopeful enrolled in the program.

To the eye Nebraska ranches may seem to be disappearing due to high land prices, poor planning for future ranches, the allure of city lights and many other factors.  However, with proper education this problem can be fixed.

The number of ranches that raise cows are at an all time low in Nebraska, leading many people to great worries.  Not only does it hurt the image of Nebraska, but some are worried about our nation’s food supply as well.

The number of beef cows in the U.S. dropped to 41.8 billion. That number has not been so low since 1951.

“I am concerned,” said Andy Groseta, a third-generation Arizona rancher whose term as president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association just ended. “There’s not enough young people. It’s a dying industry. There will be a point where this country won’t be able to feed itself.”

To keep the 100-Cow Program going, participants will be required to yearly submit a business plan to the Farm Service Agency.

Farm Plus Financial works with government programs to help people get ranch loans for purchase, expansion or refinance purposes.  Rates are at historic lows.  If you are interested in starting in the cattle business and buying a ranch, contact a representative at Farm Plus today. For more information on ranch loans call 866-929-5585 or visit online.

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High-Speed Internet Gives a Competitive Edge

Last modified on 2009-02-19 23:53:47 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Economic development officials pushed to provide two rural counties with national rankings for high-speed Internet access on farms and have seen great success thanks to aggression.

The development project is for Kearney County, Nebraska and Clay County, Iowa. Developers feel that the broadband access will gives farms in the area a competitive edge.

“We may have someone from Minden, Nebraska, come up with the next Yahoo,” said Lisa Stadler, executive director of the Kearney County Economic Development Agency based in Minden.

According to the 2007 agriculture census, Kearney County, Nebraska ranks seventh among rural counties with the highest percentage of farmers connected to high-speed Internet. 65 percent of Kearney County’s farms are connected to high speed Internet.

Clay County on the other hand ranks 20th with 58 percent of its farms connected to high-speed Internet.

The numbers are most important because they show that rural farms have the opportunity to run modern businesses. The Internet provides not only connection to less rural areas, but it is a gateway to deliver goods and services as well as strike up more business. Farmers mostly rely on it to conduct business that cannot be done face to face.

In comparison to the rest of the country, Kearney County, Nebraska was beat by Nantucket (Mass.), Pitkin (Colorado.), Hood River (Oregon.), and three other ski counties in Colorado.

If you are interested in buying rural land for agriculture, farm loans and ranch loans are available today. Contact a representative at Farm Plus with any questions about farm loans or ranch loans. Interest rates are at historic lows.  Call toll free 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information.

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Learn how to grow your own food!

Last modified on 2009-01-22 00:26:23 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Everyone is looking for cheaper ways to get healthy food. Today, many are aware of the consequences our actions have on the environment and his or her body. People want to know where their food is coming from and how it is grown.

An easy way to assure your food is truly organic is to grow your own. Organic farming is becoming a popular trend because a small investment can save you a lot of money in the long run. The cost of production of your own produce or meat and poultry compared to supermarket costs is incredible. By growing your own food you do not have to pay for transport, taxes or any other costs figured into a grocer’s final price.

The Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) sees the growing trend as well. Last Saturday the association held a conference at Worcester Technical High School featuring workshops on organic farming, gardening and more. This year’s workshops had almost 300 more participants than the last year.

Craig S. Semon from the Telegram and Gazette reported the director of NOFA, Julie Rawson said, “Organic can be for rich people and it can also be for you. You can learn how to take charge of your own life and raise your own food and raise your own really healthy food.”

Jack Kittredge, NOFA public policy coordinator, said society’s biggest concern is safe food. He thinks no one feels safe and people feel like the government is not looking out for them.

“We’re in a really fragile place in the world and we really have to learn in order to survive global warming and no oil or weak oil or whatever is going to happen. People are going to have to really start gathering skills,” Ms. Rawson said. “We need to be able to keep our old people warm in their houses and we need to make sure that our children are eating decent food. I really feel that our culture has started to crumble in a lot of ways.”

Many people consider starting an organic farm, but do not know where to start. There are many places to go for advice and guidance. Organizations like NOFA offer a lot of useful and easy to understand information. Agents can help you find the perfect agriculture real estate once you learn the basics.

Do not hesitate. Agriculture loans are available for you to start a farm or ranch of any size. Despite what people think, even when the economy seems to be going only down, farm loans are available. Visit Farm Plus Financial to inquire or set up an appointment.