New studies showing costs of establishment and production of pistachios, guava, corn silage and alfalfa hay are now available from the University of California Cooperative Extension.

Each analysis is based upon hypothetical farm operations using practices common in the region. Input and reviews were provided by farm advisors, researchers, growers, farm accountants, pest control advisers, consultants and other agricultural associates.

Assumptions used to identify current costs for the individual crops, material inputs, cash and non-cash overhead are described in each report. A ranging analysis table shows profits over a range of prices and yields. Other tables show the monthly cash costs, the costs and returns per acre, hourly equipment costs, and the whole farm annual equipment, investment, and business overhead costs.

The new studies are:

– Sample Costs to Establish and Produce Pistachios, 2008, Southern San Joaquin Valley by Robert H. Beede, Craig E. Kallsen, Brent A. Holtz, Louise Ferguson, Karen M. Klonsky, and Richard L. De Moura.

– Sample Costs to Establish an Orchard and Produce Guavas, 2007, South Coast (San Diego County) by Etaferahu Takele, Ramiro Lobo, and Gary Bender.

– Sample Costs to Produce Corn for Silage, 2008, Southern San Joaquin Valley by Carol A. Frate, Brian H. Marsh, Karen M. Klonsky and Richard L. De Moura.

– Sample Costs to Establish and Produce Alfalfa Hay, 2008, Sacramento Valley by Rachael F. Long, Jerry L. Schmierer, Karen M. Klonsky, and Pete Livingston.

All cost of production studies are available online at http://coststudies.ucdavis.edu, at UC Cooperative Extension offices or by calling (530) 752-1517. A $3 handling fee is charged for hard copies; online copies are free.

For additional information on the studies, contact Richard De Moura in the UC Davis Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at [email protected], (530) 752-3589.