Top Producer
Letting go of these ideas can help farm leaders adopt a more thoughtful, flexible approach that strengthens their operation and empowers their team.
Agriculture is complex, and the AgLaunch farmer network helps early-stage startups get traction
At Brey Family Beef, success is rooted in more than sales. It’s about building connections, supporting the community and proudly sharing the story behind every cut of meat.
Amid uncertainty in the agricultural outlook, property experts share national and regional insights.
A shrinking labor pool is already having an impact, and ag experts say it’s only going to get tougher.
Paul Neiffer reviews the newly signed bill, and explains why he gives this bill a grade of B+ for most farmers.
The deal, according to President Trump, allows the U.S. “total access” to Vietnam’s markets with a zero tariff on U.S. products exported to Vietnam.
Conducting a midyear financial check-in for your operation can help you spot money hiccups early, tweak plans and stay on track for a stronger finish to the year.
While 69% of farmers expect to transfer their operation to the next generation of family members, too many are misplacing their time and efforts, according to The Williams Group. The company offers 5 recommendations that can help farmers and other business owners course correct.
With a no-nonsense approach to advocacy Cassidy Johnston bridges the gap between farm and table.
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.
Transitions of any kind are hard — but farmland might be one of the toughest, says Steve Bohr of Farm Financial Strategies.
If both parties can come together – a farm seeker and a person that’s trying to get out of business – they can create a plan for the next generation.
If the next generation isn’t coming back, it’s not the end. But it is time for a new plan.
Strong succession is driven by leaders who are willing to plan boldly, act decisively and invest in their next generation. Your family and your operation are counting on you.
“We must ensure that we make a way for young and beginning farmers to fill our boots,” said Zippy Duvall, president of the American Farm Bureau Federation.
How do you know when it’s time to start transitioning your operation to the next generation? Rena Striegel, president of Transition Point Business Partners, says to aim for a decade.
What’s the long-term difference between starting a retirement plan at age 20 versus 40? Farm CPA Paul Neiffer crunches the numbers.
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.
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.
CFTC says expanding trading hours would ensure markets remain vibrant, while commercial hedgers and commodity brokers who work with farmers say it will fuel volatility and won’t make the markets stronger.
“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.
Agriculture is an export dependent business. At peak uncertainty, the industry could go either way: Gain ground with new trade deals or take a big hit as exports further decline.
“In today’s economy, the ability to farm often depends on the ability to commute,” says Daniel Munch, economist at American Farm Bureau Federation.
“We’re only 15 days into this. It feels like a year, right?” says Matt Clark, senior rural economy analyst. “I catch myself feeling very overwhelmed by the news flow, a lot has happened in 15 days.”
Entrants are judged on entrepreneurial originality, financial and business progress and industry or community leadership.
The Top Producer Women in Agriculture Award will be given to a female producer who is a shining example for her peers.
The downturn in the ag economy has everyone from farmers and ag lenders to even ag economists concerned. Waning optimism is an overriding theme for the row crop side of agriculture, yet some farmers hope President Donald Trump’s tough stance on trade can get the ag economy back on track longer-term.
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.