Production costs continue to rise even as prices keep sliding. This creates a cost-price squeeze that has many farmers and ranchers stuck in the middle. This situation challenges many farmers to secure operating notes for the 2018 season, or they have to dig into cash reserves to keep the operation going. Are there alternatives to consider?

That’s the aim of the upcoming Feb. 14 Agriculture Outlook and Strategy Forum Colorado State University Extension will host in Sterling, Colo. The event will have producers taking part in a forum to learn about the outlook for commodity prices, production costs for each area and a range of strategies to aim for profit when prices are low.

This is a time that will challenge the best managers, and an event like this offers insight for producers. Here’s a look at the speakers on tap.

Stephen Koontz, CSU agriculture marketing expert, will present current outlook information for commodities common to northeastern Colorado. Koontz is known in the state, and across the country, for his knowledge of the domestic and world factors that drive market prices for such things as corn, wheat, cattle, oilseeds and hay. He also understands the role of the global market in commodity prices including imports and exports.

Also scheduled to make presentations are Brent Young, CSU ag and business management economist; and Kelly Huenink, professor of ag business at Northeastern Junior College, Sterling, who will discuss the costs and returns for various commodities. They will also explore various strategies for farmers, including development of marketing plans, and industrial hemp and hydroponic production as alternative enterprises.

The program is set for 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Feb. 14 in the ballroom of the Hays Student Center on the Northeastern Junior College campus. Lunch is provided by Bank of Colorado and Smithfield Foods.

The fee for the event is $10, and registration is required. Register online at sterlingagoutlook.eventbrite.com. Space is limited, and the registration deadline is Feb. 9. Learn more about the forum by calling Brent Young at 970-522-7207 or emailing him at [email protected].

Source: Colorado State University