A new cost and return study for growing alfalfa hay under subsurface drip irrigation is available from the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE).

The alfalfa hay study focuses on stand establishment and production costs over a six-year stand life using subsurface drip irrigation in the Sacramento Valley and northern Delta.

A new study on the cost and return of growing processing apples for juice and cider is also available. The apple studies focus on production costs on the Central Coast, in the Freedom Region of the Pajaro Valley in Santa Cruz County.

One study shows production costs for organically grown apples and the other for conventionally grown apples for processing into juice and cider.

The major differences between the two companion studies are in fertilizer, pest control, yield and farm gate price. 

Each analysis is based upon a hypothetical farm operation using practices common to the region. Input and reviews were provided by consultants, UC ANR Cooperative Extension advisors, growers, pest control advisers, real estate appraisers, and other agricultural associates.

Assumptions used to identify current costs for individual crops, material inputs, cash and non-cash overhead are described. 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 production cost studies for alfalfa hay, apples, and other crops are available through the UC Davis Agriculture & Resource Economics Department website at http://coststudies.ucdavis.edu and http://coststudies.ucdavis.edu/archived.php.

For more information, contact Karen Klonsky at (530) 752-3589 and [email protected].