Leader from the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) said Iowa’s corn farmers are going into the planting season with steady business plans and an optimistic look.
Gary Edwards (ICGA President), Julius Schaaf (ICPB past chair) and Bruce Rohwer (ICGA board member) said they plan to use established crop rotation plans and plan to plant the usual mix of corn and soybean acres.
Despite the current economic woes, farmers have made only minor adjustments to plans and have had no problem getting money from banks to put the crop in or buy supplies. One key change was buying machinery at a slower pace.
Edwards suggested that famers try to control input costs. “One thing I’m doing is more stalk and soil testing to manage my fertilizer use,” said Edwards. He expects to reduce his nitrogen application as a result.
All three agree that farmers should take advantage of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s ACRE program. They feel it can bring a piece of mind to farmers by providing a price floor.
If you are interested in pursuing a farm loan contact Farm Plus today. Low rate farm loans are available today. Call 866-929-5585 or visit online for more information about farm loans.