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Posts Tagged ‘kansas’
Sunday, June 26th, 2011
The drought in Kansas, which has continued unabated since last month, shows no signs of letting up. Earlier this week, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack added 25 new counties in Kansas to the federal disaster area. To date, over 40 counties in Kansas are part of the disaster area, making this drought one of the worst in Kansas history.
The drought has struck in the middle of what should be prime harvesting time for Kansas wheat farmers. The drought has transformed formerly lush and vibrant fields into virtual deserts, crippling production and sending shockwaves throughout local economies. According to local farmers, the lack of rainfall is as bad as it was during the infamous Dust Bowl of the 1930s, where inclement weather devastated crops throughout the Plains. The drought has already had a significant impact on the Kansas economy, with wheat production down nearly 30 percent from last year.
Kansas Governor Sam Brownback has praised Vilsack’s latest disaster announcement, stating, “This is worse than previous droughts I’ve seen and experienced during a lifetime in agriculture. This extreme weather already is affecting how farmers and ranchers are doing business – and that in turn is impacting the economies of local businesses and communities. It will take a great deal of time and rain to reverse the effects of this drought.” Farmers who may qualify for disaster aid should contact local Farm Service Agency offices.
To learn more about agricultural financing opportunities contact a Farm Plus Financial representative by calling 866-929-5585 or by visiting www.farmplusfinancial.com.
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Written by: Justin Ellison / Farm Plus Staff Writer
Tags: kansas, Sam Brownback, tom vilsack
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Sunday, May 15th, 2011
Earlier this week, Farm Aid announced that its 2011 location will be Kansas City, Kansas, marking the first time the organization has held its benefit concert in Kansas. Willie Nelson, President of Farm Aid and a member of its Board of Directors, reiterated the importance of farming to the American economy and the necessity of helping struggling farmers.
Started in 1985, Farm Aid is a benefit concert designed to raise money for struggling family farms and farmers. The benefit was begun by Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, and Neil Young, all currently sitting on the Board of Directors, and has been responsible not only for raising money for farmers, but also for lobbying Congress. Nelson and Mellencamp both testified before Congress during the debates over the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987.
The timing and location of Farm Aid 2011 is important for Kansas, which is currently suffering from severe droughts which have devastated the state’s agricultural sector. Kansas Governor Sam Brownback welcomed Farm Aid, stating that Kansas has a long tradition of farming. Many Kansans hope that Farm Aid will help Kansas farmers.
Nelson, Mellencamp, Young, and Dave Matthews have already committed to perform, with other artists to be announced later. Farm Aid tickets will be available on May 20.
To learn more about agricultural financing opportunities contact a Farm Plus Financial representative by calling 866-929-5585 or by visiting www.farmplusfinancial.com.
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Written by: Justin Ellison / Farm Plus Staff Writer
Tags: farm aid, kansas, Willie Nelson
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Sunday, May 8th, 2011
For the past several weeks, Kansas has experienced record droughts, with some parts of the states receiving only 1/3 of their normal annual rainfall. Earlier this week, Governor Sam Brownback toured parts of the state hit hardest by the drought, promising assistance to struggling Kansas farmers. In addition to touring and speaking with locals, the governor has asked the federal government to declare a state of emergency in 21 counties, which should make federal farming aid available.
The drought has already wreaked havoc on the Kansas agricultural industry. Kansas’ wheat crop, in particular, has been hit hard by the lack of moisture. Last year, agriculture officials estimated a total wheat crop of about 360 million bushels. After the drought, this number is more likely going to be around 250 million bushels. In addition to damage done to the current crop, many farmers seem unlikely to plant their spring crop, citing concerns over the aridity of the soil.
The damage to the agricultural sector could have long lasting ramifications on the Kansas economy. Agriculture is a major part of the state’s economy, which is already hurting from the economic downturn. In addition to the generically bleak economic forecast, Kansas officials are in the middle of attempting to balance the state’s budget. The loss of revenue due to the drought, however, could impair this plan. The lost revenue for farmers could mean lowered revenues for surrounding businesses which could lead to an even more severe economic downturn in the state. While not overly gloomy, state officials are considering options to stimulate spending and prevent further economic decline.
To learn more about agricultural financing opportunities contact a Farm Plus Financial representative by calling 866-929-5585 or by visiting www.farmplusfinancial.com.
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Written by: Justin Ellison / Farm Plus Staff Writer
Tags: drought, kansas, Sam Brownback
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Tuesday, February 22nd, 2011
Photo courtesy of Abc.net
The government offers a variety of funding options for socially disadvantaged farmers, and this includes woman. Across the country there are a variety of conferences and resources that help women enter the agriculture industry in a variety of sectors.
In Wichita, Kansas the 2011 Women Managing Farm Conference will be held Feb. 11-12 at the Hyatt Regency. This conference is a nation-wide gathering for women interested in independent agriculture, farm and ranch partnership, management, record keeping and even agricultural helpers.
Past participants feel the conference not only covers many ways to work in the agriculture industry, but it is a useful tool for networking.
During the 2011 conference, participants can participate in sessions with Stewart Kennedy, an agricultural educator, entrepreneur and motivational speaker on successful business practices, Dr. Ashley Simmons about health care and the agriculture industry, Anne Burkholder on the connection between producers and consumers and Ed Bell a strawberry grower.
Those interested must register by Jan. 28 for the discounted rate of $125 while registering after costs $150. Scholarships are available through the Kansas Soybean Commission.
For more information on agriculture scholarships and conferences, contact Farm Plus today at 866-929-5585 or visit www.farmplusfinancial.com.
Written by: Melissa Warner / Farm Plus Staff Writer
Tags: farm conference, kansas, wichita, women managing conference
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Friday, February 4th, 2011
The Kansas State Department of Agriculture is working to change the state’s agriculture program by 2012 to interest students in farming and ranching businesses.
In 2007 the transition began by forming the classes into career clusters focusing on the importance of agriculture, food and natural resources. The three main classes include agriculture science, plant systems and power structure and technical systems.
Agriculture is more than planting seeds, these classes put a heavy emphasis on math, science, language arts and fine arts. People, science, math and business skills are essential to start at an early age to bloom minds into future producers.
Currently these classes are offered on a part-time basis, but with other changes in the curriculum, the Kansas State Department of Agriculture and Department of Education want to gain enough interest to require a full-time instructor.
Classes are offered at elementary, middle and high school levels to encourage students to enter the industry post-graduation.
For more information on this and agricultural funding, call Farm Plus at 866-929-5585.
Tags: education, kansas, schools
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Wednesday, August 11th, 2010
Wheat is a major crop across the United States although farmers planted less acreage in the winter months.
Stripe Rust, a seeded wheat disease, is causing problems across major wheat growing states. The cool conditions thus far have caused a major problem spreading this disease across such states as southeast Colorado and Kansas.
Director of the Colorado Associations of Wheat Growers, Darrell Hanavan, said Stripe Rust is a huge threat to crops. It can cause as much as 50 percent yield loss in crops that are not treated with fungicide to prevent the disease.
Warm weather is the best way to cure the disease and farmers believe a three-day stretch of 90 degree weather would stop the problem. Farmers can also turn to fungicide, but this is a problem since harvesting time is near. Fungicide must be applied 30 to 45 days pre-harvest. Colorado farmers are expecting to harvest after July 4 which is sooner than 30 days.
Federal Reserve stated interest rates likely to rise. Refinance your farm loan before rates go up. Call a representative by dialing 866-929-5585 or visit us online.
Tags: colorado, kansas, wheat
Posted in Colorado farm loans, General, Kansas Farm Loans | No Comments »
Thursday, February 25th, 2010
During the 2009 Fiscal Year, family farmers in Kansas received $147,683,765 in direct and guaranteed loans according to USDA state executive director, Adrian J. Polansky.
“This has been a record year for the number of loans made and dollars loaned,” Polansky told the Highplains Journal. “Some of the money was made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to stimulate rural economies.”
931 Direct and Guaranteed Farm Operating Loans totaled $88,583,914. This money was used for planting and harvesting, livestock purchases and machinery.
$4,382,730 was distributed to socially disadvantaged farmers while $23,226,567 was given to beginning farmers and $335,956 was used for youth applicants.
Emergency loans were distributed to a number of Kansas producers totaling in $614,930.
Many loans are offered to farmers in need. If you are interested in obtaining a low-interest loan contact your local Farm Service Agency Office or Farm Plus today. We offer loans starting at 2.99% and will work alongside government agency like the FSA to help you obtain the low-rate loans you need. Call us today at 866-929-5585 or visit us online for more information.
Tags: kansas, loans, usda
Posted in Kansas Farm Loans | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 11th, 2009
One of the latest debates in congress- a tax on animals that pollute the air. Many farmers, and the public, find it completely absurd that the government wants to put a tax on gaseous animals that pollute the air.
The cow tax comes as part of the Environmental Protection Agency report after a Supreme Court Ruling in 2008 that greenhouse gases from motor vehicles pollute the air.
The Environmental Protection Agency said each ranch and farm would pay an annual fee of $175 for every dairy cow, $87.50 for every head of beef cattle and $20 for every hog.
The fees would affect those who emit more than 100 tons of carbon emissions a year. Farms that have more than 25 dairy cows, 50 beef cattle or 200 hogs would be effected.
According to the EPA despite the ability to convert unusable plant materials into fiber and food, cows release methane into the air. This gas contributes to global warming.
Farmers in Douglas County (Kansas) find it upsetting and point out it will destroy the industry.
“It’s ridiculous,†said Joyce Williams, of MJ Ranch, 3105 Wild Horse Road told LJ World.com. “That would eliminate agriculture in our country almost, if all animals were taxed. We can’t do that; it’s just almost unthinkable.â€
Luckily for farmers, the EPA is most concerned with focusing on air pollution produced by factories and motor vehicles. This year’s technical report hardly touches on the proposed livestock tax.
If you’re in the market for financing to start your own farm, be sure to contact Farm Plus Fianancial. Two ways to contact a Farm Plus representative, either by clicking here or call them toll free at 866-929-5585.
Tags: cow tax, kansas, tax
Posted in General, Kansas Farm Loans | No Comments »
Wednesday, February 4th, 2009
Wheat was recently at historic highs and since has fallen in price, dramatically. Kansas is known for producing large amounts of wheat, in fact, Kansas is our nations #1 producer in wheat (historically). The National Agricultural Statistics Service reported Monday, Kansas farmers planted 9 million acres of wheat. “This is the lowest number since 1957 for Kansas – and that was a drought year when over 4 million acres were placed into a land bank reserve,†stated Eddie Wells who works for the Kansas Agricultural Statistics Service (KASS).   Kansas set a record high in 1952 with more than 15 million acres of wheat planted. The lowest on record is at 7.1 million acres of wheat set in 1957 according to KASS. “When you see this volume, there is some deliberate intention to it,†stated Eddie Wells, “Farmers are carefully deciding what they want to do with the ground.â€Â
Tags: kansas, wheat
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