Here are this week’s top stories from Farm and Dairy:
1. Farm Science Review to focus on new technologies, innovation
This year’s Farm Science Review takes place Sept. 16-18 and will feature about 620 exhibitors. Some of the must-see features of the show include drone and field demonstrations as well as antique tractor and farm equipment displays.
2. Drone gives TMK Bakersville (and farmers) clearer picture of crop scouting
Ever wonder how an agricultural drone works?
Farm and Dairy editor Susan Crowell caught up with TMK Bakersville, a crop service and propane company. The company has been testing a UAV — unmanned aerial vehicle — to scout fields for crop conditions.
3. Marcellus and Utica shale: Pennsylvania still leading the way
In August, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources issued a mere 38 permits in comparison to the 230 drilling permits and 41 unconventional well permits issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. West Virginia’s Department of Environmental Protection issued 23 new permits in August.
4. Dairymen, two online tools can help with Margin Protection Program choice
In order to help farmers understand the Margin Protection Program, a group of researchers from various universities has developed an online tool to aid dairy farmers in calculating total premium costs and administrative fees, as well as several other items.
A second tool, developed by the National Milk Producers Federation, features an online calculator to help farmers choose a coverage level for the Margin Protection Program.
The Margin Protection Program for dairy producers is designed to help farmers manage the income and market risk for their businesses.
5. Cash rents: A different approach may be necessary
Since the beginning of the year, grain prices have fallen, and the projected net income for 2014 is much lower than last year.
Cash rents might not fall, but negotiations with landowners might be necessary so that farmers can make a profit or at least break even.
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