Latest News From Sara Schafer

How Many Farms Are in the U.S.?
How Many Farms Are in the U.S.?

Total land in farms decreased 1.9 million acres to 893,400,000 acres in 2022 versus 2021. Here is other noteworthy farmland data, courtesy of USDA’s Farms and Land in Farms 2022 Summary. 

Rural Economy Slows, Farmland Values Stay Strong
Rural Economy Slows, Farmland Values Stay Strong

The rural economy seems to be set on cruise in neutral gear. That’s according to the Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) from Creighton University. 

4 Factors Impacting the Ag Economy
4 Factors Impacting the Ag Economy

What is the state of the U.S. economy? How will these macro factors impact the agricultural economy? John Deere's Kanlaya Barr provides a guide to a few risks you should monitor in the next year.

Here's How to Make Tough Talks Easier
Here's How to Make Tough Talks Easier

Little steps can ease frustration and improve communication on your farm.

2017 Outlook
5 Crop and Livestock Charts to Ponder from USDA’s 10-Year Outlook

What will the next decade hold for your farm? What factors should you use to weigh investments or crop planning?  Here are five trends and data sets to ponder from USDA's latest Agricultural Baseline Projections.

4 Ag Policy Issues to Watch in 2023
4 Ag Policy Issues to Watch in 2023

Big moves in Washington in 2023 could impact your farm.

Young Farmers Build Dream Farm, One Piece At A Time
Young Farmers Build Dream Farm, One Piece At A Time

Brendan and Elaine Martin are building their dream farm — one piece at a time. 

U.S. Cropland Cash Rents Hit All-Time High
U.S. Cropland Cash Rents Hit All-Time High

For 2022, the national average for cash rents on cropland is $148 per acre. That’s up $7 from last year and eclipsed the previous high of 2015’s $144 per acre.

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Rural Economy Posts Growth for 15 Straight Months

For 15 straight months, the rural economy has posted healthy and consistent growth.

Horizon Award Honors Husband-and-Wife Team for Their Drive and Focus
Horizon Award Honors Husband-and-Wife Team for Their Drive and Focus

Congratulations to Martin Angus, the 2022 recipient of the Tomorrow’s Top Producer Horizon Award. Take a virtual trip to their diversified operation nestled in the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia.

Avoid These 4 Family Business Sins
Avoid These 4 Family Business Sins

Here's how you can avoid committing these harmony-harming mistakes.

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Rural Bankers Rank the Greatest Threats for 2022

For 14 straight months, the rural economy has posted healthy and consistent growth.

Free Webinar: Have Your Tax Questions Answered by The Farm CPA
Free Webinar: Have Your Tax Questions Answered by The Farm CPA

There’s no one better to provide a realistic and informative take on tax planning than Paul Neiffer, principal with CLA and author of “The Farm CPA” blog. 

2022 Weather Outlook: La Niña’s Encore
2022 Weather Outlook: La Niña’s Encore

How will she impact drought conditions in 2022?

How High Can Farmland Prices Go?
How High Can Farmland Prices Go?

Prepare for a dynamic farmland market in 2022.

Pasture to Plate: A Culture-Driven Beef Business
Pasture to Plate: A Culture-Driven Beef Business

The Ducheneaux family reconnects consumers with their food source 

The Future of Agricultural Lending
The Future of Agricultural Lending

Be ready for new ways to finance your farm.

A Look Back: 4 Takes on 2021 Weather
A Look Back: 4 Takes on 2021 Weather

From droughts to hurricanes to wildfires, this year has offered a little of everything when it comes to weather.

Why China’s Taste for Beef Is Growing
Why China’s Taste for Beef Is Growing

Market dynamics and consumer shifts support U.S. beef.

Worried About Biden’s Tax Plan? Paul Neiffer Has Recommendations
Worried About Biden’s Tax Plan? Paul Neiffer Has Recommendations

President Joe Biden's tax plan has both good and bad news for farmers, says Paul Neiffer, a CPA and principal with CLA and author of the “Farm CPA” blog.

See the Agenda for the Aug. 23 Illinois Farm Journal Field Day Event
See the Agenda for the Aug. 23 Illinois Farm Journal Field Day Event

It’s almost time for the 2021 Farm Journal Field Day events! First up is Whiskey Acres, a seed-to-spirit operation.

See the Agenda for the Aug. 25 Mississippi Farm Journal Field Day Event
See the Agenda for the Aug. 25 Mississippi Farm Journal Field Day Event

It’s almost time for the 2021 Farm Journal Field Day events! Join Farm Journal on Aug. 25 to get a first-hand look at farming in the Mississippi Delta.

Choose Your Farm Journal Field Days Experience
Choose Your Farm Journal Field Days Experience

In 2021, you have the choice to join #FJFieldDays in person or online. Join us at a location near you or login online to find educational content, industry insights and more.

Grade Your Management IQ
Grade Your Management IQ

Strategic management for your business is about anticipating, adapting to, driving and capitalizing on change, says Danny Klinefelter, Texas A&M University professor emeritus.

See the 2021 Farm Journal Field Day Agendas
See the 2021 Farm Journal Field Day Agendas

In 2021, you have the choice to join Farm Journal Field Days in person or online.

Accidental Success: A Hot Dog that Tastes Like Steak
Accidental Success: A Hot Dog that Tastes Like Steak

Patrick Montgomery is in the business of delivering customers the best steaks they'll ever eat. Along the way, he may have just created the best hot dog anyone has ever tasted as well.

Why Should You Attend the 2021 Farm Journal Field Days?
Why Should You Attend the 2021 Farm Journal Field Days?

Farm Journal Field Days is a combination of virtual and live programming to take place Aug. 23–27. Here’s an overview of the fun ahead.

7 Reasons Your Best Employees Quit
7 Reasons Your Best Employees Quit

Learn how to avoid these frustrating and deal-breaking mistakes.

Thanksgiving may look different in 2020, but farmers are still the focus.
Let’s Talk Turkey, Thanksgiving and Traditions

Thanksgiving may look different in 2020, but farmers are still the focus.

COVID-19, freeze risks, USDA report and government influence on agriculture are all weighing on the markets this week.
Jerry Gulke: Is Government-Induced Supply Control In Our Future?

COVID-19, freeze risks, USDA report and government influence on agriculture are all weighing on the markets this week.

Strong global, domestic demand provides a bright spot for U.S. grain.
Demand Drivers: Livestock

Strong global, domestic demand provides a bright spot for U.S. grain.

5 Factors Driving the Livestock Outlook

Livestock farmers are facing a combination of headwinds and tailwinds—as well as a lot of unknowns.

Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle Defends Beef Decision

In a special interview with AgriTalk’s Mike Adams, Chris Arnold, communications director for Chipotle, explains their quest for responsibly raised beef.

Web Spotlight

As you spend a few more hours inside during the winter months and make plans for the year ahead, be sure to check out the online tools, news and market information at AgWeb.com.

Make Your Farm Virtual

Connect with landlords, share the story of production agriculture, inform non-farming family members about what’s happening on the farm--all reasons to create a website or blog for your farm.

Positive Outlook for Cattle Industry

Natural meats provide a market niche for a Maine- and New York-based feedlot operation.

Three Analyses of the Cattle on Feed Report

USDA’s monthly Cattle on Feed report showed some surprises today. Three market experts decipher the numbers and provide advice.

Cattle on Feed Commentary

Listen in as a market expert breaks down today’s Cattle on Feed report.

Cattle on Feed: No Big Surprises

Listen in as two market experts break down today’s Cattle on Feed report.

Water Marks Coverage

Read the stories in the Water Marks series.

2010 Commodity Classic Coverage

Check out the complete 2010 Commodity Classic coverage.

Good News in the Cattle Market

Hear market analysis on the April 23 Cattle on Feed report.

Commodity Group Leader Interviews

Leaders of two commodity groups detail the key legislative agenda and regulatory agenda for the year.

Tips for Crop Pests and Scouting

Find helpful links and information on crop pests and scouting.

The Soybean Rust Situation

David Wright, director of research for the North Central Soybean Research Program, discusses the soybean rust situation.

Nitrogen Use in Efficient Hybrids

Greg Luce, technical product manager for Pioneer Hi-Bred, discusses nitrogen use in efficient hybrids.

Resistant Weeds Catastrophe

Stephen Powles, an Australian farmer and professor, details the catastrophe resistant weeds are causing.

Acre Challenge Farmers

Meet some of the farmers who have supported the World Soy Foundation’s Acre Challenge.

Audio Analysis of Cattle on Feed Report

Hear Ron Plain, University of Missouri economist, comment on USDA's March Cattle on Feed report.

Wine Grape Growing Resources

Here are some great resources on growing wine grapes in Maryland.