Farm Business - General
On the surface, strong livestock prices and government payments are painting a rosy picture for the farm sector. A closer look at input costs, commodity prices and interest rates says otherwise.
A new 2025 report from the International Dairy Foods Association shows the U.S. dairy industry supports over 3 million jobs and generates nearly $780 billion in economic impact, highlighting dairy’s powerful role in communities nationwide.
If the next generation isn’t coming back, it’s not the end. But it is time for a new plan.
Unless milk prices take an unexpected dive or feed costs jump significantly, 2025 appears to be following the playbook of years like 2022 or 2024: margins get tighter, but not tight enough to trigger substantial DMC support.
What’s the long-term difference between starting a retirement plan at age 20 versus 40? Farm CPA Paul Neiffer crunches the numbers.
Doug Stark, retired CEO of Farm Credit Services of America, joins the Ag Inspo podcast to share what he believes the next generation of producers need for building their own operations.
When Perry Baeten took over operation of his family dairy, he knew in order to survive, they also had to grow, get lean and become more efficient — even if that meant spending more money to make it happen. Here’s how Baeten turned his dreams into reality.
Farm leaders often run on empty trying to do it all, but sustainable leadership means protecting your own well-being so you can keep showing up for your team and operation for the long haul.
Two new tech-packed forage harvesters are coming to the North American market, and a group of specialty crop-focused tech companies announce new capabilities and development partners.
Navigating the world of health insurance can be daunting, especially for farmers and small business owners. Here’s an explanation of several options that might work for you.
“Whatever your case might be, it’s about how to help absorb potential unforeseen shocks and potential short term losses if they occur,” says John Steeves with Rabobank.
Accounting for about 15% of USDA’s total workforce and representing FSA, NRCS, FSIS, APHIS and other departments, 3,877 staff signed contracts in February for the first deferred resignation program and 11,305 in the second round in April.
A pair of Canadians in farming weigh in on the country’s latest election results and the implications for agriculture sectors like the dairy industry and farm equipment manufacturing.
“In today’s economy, the ability to farm often depends on the ability to commute,” says Daniel Munch, economist at American Farm Bureau Federation.
Although vague, Trump’s comments during his Cabinet meeting are the most detailed the administration has provided on the fate of farmworkers without legal status — who make up half the farm sector’s workforce — under his plan for mass deportations.
With heifer prices at record highs, raising replacements on-farm can be a money saver since 2024 costs are much lower than buying on the market.
Are you being honest with yourself? It’s time to set appropriate expectations and write them down on paper.
Income tax law will change this year, and it will be dramatic. Though the crystal ball right now is fairly cloudy as to the final provisions, the changes will likely be beneficial for most farmers.
Dairy farming comes with enough uncertainties—don’t let market volatility be one of them.
Retired Farm Credit Services of America CEO Doug Stark gives his advice for building your organization’s culture.
Investing in employee development is just as important as investing in equipment. By building a skilled and engaged workforce, farmers can boost efficiency, retention, and long-term success.
If you’re thinking about buying a tractor soon, you might want to move up your timeline. Prices are expected to rise in the high horsepower segment over the next few months.
Three key provisions in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act are set to expire in December. Planning now can help farmers prepare financially if the provisions aren’t extended, says CPA Paul Neiffer.
What do high-quality leaders have in common when it comes to developing both strong teams and strong balance sheets?
Among the secretary’s first public appearances since being confirmed last week, the fireside chat on Tuesday, Feb. 18, will cover key topics driving the future of agriculture.
“It’s unlikely that changes in tariffs will impact prices headed into the Super Bowl, however, we’ll see how it plays out in the coming weeks,” Dr. Michael Swanson says.
Until your needs for the next chapter of transition or retirement are put on paper, there is likely fear about the unknown. Thankfully, it’s easy to navigate with these steps.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer details the differences between what USDA and the IRS consider as farm income.
Complacency happens to our operations when we decide we are simply too busy working in the business to work on the business.
Will corporations, LLCs, and LPs be required to report Beneficial Ownership Information soon? Here’s the latest developments.