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Updated Supply and Demand for Corn and Soybeans

The webinar will review the USDA’s U.S. corn and soybean yield and production forecasts released on August 12. The production forecasts will be combined with projections of marketing year consumption in order to project the magnitude of year-ending stocks. The implications for marketing year average prices as well as the likely pattern of prices during the 2020-21 marketing year will be discussed.

What’s the Future? Attempting an Outlook of the Policy Landscape

As summer approaches its end, the coronavirus pandemic has gotten worse, the economic outlook has dimmed and Congress is attempting to negotiate a potential next round of relief for the coronavirus pandemic while the 2020 election draws nearer. This webinar will review the policies put in place to date and attempt an outlook of the policy landscape ahead. The webinar will look at how MFP, CFAP and other ad hoc relief can serve as a leading indicator of policy directional changes, as well as review potential concepts and historical analogues.

Budgeting and Farm Income for 2020 and 2021

We will provide returns projections for corn, soybeans, and wheat production in 2021. Farm income for Illinois grain farms will be projected for both 2020 and 2021. Possible farm incomes will be presented that include payments from the farm safety net.

Where are we at Financially on Illinois Farms

Overall, the financial positions of Illinois farms are still strong, but erosion has occurred on many farms. Up to this point, most of that erosion has come in the form of reductions in working capital. Debt-to-asset positions have eroded only slightly. Non-declining asset values contribute to the relatively small declines in debt-to-asset positions. Some farms are more at risk, including those that have more cash rent farmland. Also, younger farmers tend to have worse situations than older operators.

Outlook for Farmland Prices and Rents: Results of an Illinois Society Survey

Outlook for farmland prices and rents will be presented from results of an annual mid-year survey conducted jointly by the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers and the University of Illinois. Topics include farm price outlook for the remainder of 2020, rental outlook for 2021, and outlook over the next five-years. Information will be useful as farmland markets enter the rent-setting season.

Conservation, Incomes and Farmland Leasing

Leasing season is again upon us. This webinar will first provide an outlook for setting 2021 leases. Then, attention will turn to conservation and leasing. Many landowners and farmers want to engage in more conservation practices but are concerned about the impacts these conservation practices may have on relationships between landowners and farmers. We will cover issues related to owner-farmer relationships for conservation, nutrient management, and cover crops. Conservation addendums to farmland leases available on farmdoc will be shown.

Farmland Markets and Macro Markets

Farmland is receiving significantly increased attention by owners and investors seeking to make sense out of the scrambled economic signals of the recent past.  Historically, the conventional narrative around farmland…

Commodity Title Choices in 2021

Farmers and land owners will again have the opportunity to change commodity title choices between Agricultural Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage for the 2021 crop year. The deadline for the decision in March 15, 2021. This webinar will discuss these alternatives.

ECO and Crop Insurance

Most farmers in the Midwest insure corn and soybeans with Revenue Protection (RP). This year, a new county-level product can be added on top of RP and other products called Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO). This webinar will discuss the crop insurance decisions, in general, and ECO in particular.

Demonstration and Discussion of the Cover Crop Simulation Tool

A project team from ACES, NCSA and Purdue’s Agronomy Department have been developing a first-of-its-kind cover crop simulation and decision support tool for Illinois farmers with funding by the Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council.  The tool was released in October and recently updated with additional functionality.  On this webinar, the project team will discuss the project and tool, as well as provide a demonstration and explanation.

The Cover Crop Decision Support Tool may be found at https://covercrop.ncsa.illinois.edu/

2021 farmdoc Update

New issues have emerged in Corn-belt agriculture with outlook and costs still being on the forefront. The following webinar series will aid in setting current thinking of the agricultural economy…

Farmland and Price Outlook

Farmland market prices are rising and cash rents for 2022 are being set. Latest information on farmland price, including results from the annual survey of the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraises. Expectation for 2022 will be given.

Carbon Markets 101: What Questions Farmers Should Ask?

With growing concerns about climate change, policy markers are looking for solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. One solution is a market for carbon credits. Here we will describe the latest on carbon markets, with an emphasis on definitions of carbon markets and an analysis of current carbon markets.

Brazil and the United States

Brazil is the United States’ major competitor in agriculture, with Brazil now producing more soybeans than the U.S. Here we will discuss Brazil’s past development, and prospects for the future.

Managing Weeds in Variable Weather: Insights From Data Mining

Global climate change is creating challenges for agriculture today and will continue in the future. During the past 50 years in the US Cornbelt, average air temperatures have risen and rainfall has become more variable, including an increase in the total number of extreme rainfall events. These trends are expected to continue. Weather and weeds are two stressors that can act simultaneously to affect crop performance, yet their comprehensive study in tandem is limited. The webinar will discuss the most important relationships among weed control and weather variability on corn yield loss due to weeds.

Is the MRTN Nitrogen Rate for Corn High Enough?

The Maximum Return to Nitrogen (MRTN) is a recommended N rate based on recent N response trials, and is often lower than rates based on expected yields. We’ll discuss how much risk this brings, and will introduce a way for producers to check MRTN performance in the field.

Grain Returns for 2021 and 2022

Production cost are rising at substantial rates. Here we will summarize grain farm financial statements for farms enrolled in Illinois Farm Business Farm Management, and present projections for the future.

Machinery Costs and Management

The 2021 version of machinery cost estimates for field operations, harvesting operations, and tractors are available on farmdoc. We will discuss the uses of these estimates and the methods used…

Farm Income Outlook for 2022

The economic situation on Illinois grain farms has brightened with higher grain prices, resulting in relatively high incomes for 2021. Prices in 2022 could continue to be above the long-run…

Policy Update for 2022

While no major changes have been made to crop insurance or commodity programs for 2022, major legislation has been moving through Congress this fall that will have impacts on agriculture.…

Financial and Environmental Impact of Conservation Practices

Do you want to learn more about how conservation practices like reduced- and no-till, cover crops, and nitrogen management impact corn and soybean production, profitability, and environmental impact? In this 1-hour webinar, the PCM and University of IL Agricultural Economics Team will summarize 7-years of data from the Precision Conservation Management program (PCM). PCM is a farmer service program led by IL Corn Growers Association and IL Soybean Association. PCM’s objective is to work 1-on-1 with farmers across Illinois as they make financially based conservation decisions on their farms.

Updated Supply and Demand for Corn and Soybeans

The webinar will review USDA’s June 30 Grain Stocks and Acreage reports and considers balance sheet and price implications for both old and new crop corn and soybeans. The USDA’s estimate of June 1 stocks of corn and soybeans will provide a clearer picture of total 2021-22 marketing year consumption, ending stocks, and price prospects. The magnitude of planting acreage will clarify prospects for the size of the 2022 corn and soybean crops with implications for the 2022-23 balance sheets and price prospects.

Nitrogen fertilizer decisions for 2023

Farmers are being strongly encouraged to shift fertilizer applications away from the fall to the spring as it can lead to improved water quality impacts. However, high fertilizer prices and…

Farm Tax Planning Strategies 2022

FBFM staff offer insight for key tax topics to produce meaningful year end planning results. Strategies to manage tax liability using depreciation, prepaying expenses, retirement plans, installment contracts, and tax…

2022 Farm Assets Conference

The 2022 Farm Assets Conference is past.  However, you can view the pdf slides here. Topics included:

Updating the Carbon Market Landscape | Crop Prospects in Argentina & Brazil | The 2023 Farm Bill
Ukraine, Russia, Spring Fertilizer Prices & Crop Budgets | farmdoc S&D Tables & Price Prospects
ACE Commodity Markets Discussion | Field Crops Production Issues | The Value of Farmland

Crop Risk Management for 2023, Part One

Many of the risk management decisions impacting 2023 crop production will be made soon.  At the end of February, projected prices for crop insurance will be known.

We will cover decision related choices related to corn or soybeans, marketing, leasing, commodity title alternatives, & crop insurance alternatives

Crop Risk Management for 2023, Part Two

Many of the risk management decisions impacting 2023 crop production will be made soon.  At the end of February, projected prices for crop insurance will be known.

We will cover decision related choices related to corn or soybeans, marketing, leasing, commodity title alternatives, & crop insurance alternatives

Corn Rootworm: Bt Resistance and Management Recommendations for Illinois

Corn rootworm remains the most economically damaging insect pest of corn in Illinois, though its impact in recent years has primarily been felt in the northern third of the state. The ongoing development of resistance to Bt traits has complicated management decisions for Illinois farmers. Join University of Illinois scientists to discuss the status of rootworm populations and Bt resistance throughout Illinois, as well as management recommendations for dealing with this troublesome pest.

Corn Field Search and Rescue Tips and Techniques

Join us for this informative webinar where Ralph Kuchenbrod will provide essential tips and techniques for effectively and safely conducting searches in corn fields. Searches in agricultural settings like corn fields present unique challenges and risks that searchers must be prepared for.

Profitability and Conservation Practices: Results from Precision Conservation Management

Precision Conservation Management (PCM) has collected and analyzed production data on Illinois farms since 2015, with additional data from farms in Kentucky and Nebraska. In this webinar, Megan Miller (IL Soybean Association), Laura Gentry and, Greg Goodwin (IL Corn Growers Association), and Gary Schnitkey (University of Illinois) will share results from PCM's extensive dataset, providing valuable insights for farmers interested in implementing conservation practices.

Navigating New Depreciation Rules To Avoid Surprises for Farm Taxpayers

This farmdoc webinar, by Bob Rhea and Brad Zwilling from Illinois Farm Business Farm Management (FBFM), will provide an overview of recent changes to federal and state depreciation rules, including the phase-out of 100% bonus depreciation and Illinois' elimination of bonus depreciation. We will explain the implications of these changes for farmers' taxes and offer planning strategies.

Farm Income and Return Outlook

Nick Paulson will examine the forecasted financial returns and net incomes for Illinois farms in 2024, against the recent downturn in commodity prices. He'll explore the impact of persistent high…

Macro and Farm Financial Update

Brad Zwilling and Gerald Mashange will analyze economic factors impacting agriculture, focusing on inflation, interest rates, and farm credit conditions. Utilizing Illinois FBFM data, they'll assess the financial state of…

Post-Application Coverage Endorsement (PACE) Crop Insurance Policy for 2024

Learn more about the Post-Application Coverage Endorsement (PACE) Crop Insurance Policy for 2024 during a webinar hosted by IL Corn.

Experts Dr. Gary Schnitkey, University of Illinois Professor in Agricultural and Consumer Economics, and Megan Dwyer, CCA and Director of Conservation and Nutrient Stewardship for IL Corn, will walk participants through this game-changing coverage endorsement and answer any questions.

Grain Market Outlook

Joe Janzen will analyze 2024's grain price forecasts and global market trends, discussing the implications for grain marketing strategies in light of supply and demand estimations.

Crop Risk Management for 2024, Part 1

This two-part webinar series will provide an in-depth analysis of risk management decisions and strategies for the 2024 crop year. Lower commodity prices are expected for the 2024 crop and marketing years compared to the past 3 years, resulting in a much tighter margin environment and increased importance of risk management decisions.

Part 1 on February 19, 2024 will feature Gary Schnitkey who will join Nick Paulson to discuss the commodity program alternatives with a focus on corn and soybean producers in Illinois. Crop insurance alternatives for 2024 will also be discussed as projected insurance prices are being set in February. Both crop insurance and ARC/PLC enrollment decisions must be made by March 15th.

Crop Risk Management for 2024, Part 2

This two-part webinar series will provide an in-depth analysis of risk management decisions and strategies for the 2024 crop year. Lower commodity prices are expected for the 2024 crop and marketing years compared to the past 3 years, resulting in a much tighter margin environment and increased importance of risk management decisions.

Part 2 on March 4, 2024 will feature Bruce Sherrick who will join Nick Paulson to focus on crop insurance alternative for 2024.  Projected insurance prices will be known at this time, allowing for a more accurate look at the risk protection and premium costs associated with the commonly used insurance programs as the March 15th crop insurance sales closing date approaches. Individual coverage

The Changing Face of American Agriculture: Insights from the 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture – Illinois and the Midwest

This webinar will provide an overview of the census data and trends specific to Illinois and the Midwest. By highlighting the unique circumstances and opportunities faced by farmers in this region, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the agricultural sector and contribute to informed policy-making processes.

The 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture provides a wealth of information about the state of American agriculture. This webinar series will explore findings from the census, and discuss trends of U.S. agriculture.

Download Larger PDF Here

Farmworker Safety and Health

Farm work presents many hazards that can lead to injury, illness, and even death. This webinar focuses on the unique risks faced by agricultural workers, including migrant and hired laborers,…

Heat Related Injury and Illness

Heat exposure can negatively affect agricultural workers, but there are ways to prevent it. Review risk factors, early symptoms, treatment, workplace controls like rest breaks and hydration, and personal protective…

Financial and Environmental Impact of Conservation Practices

New Data from PCM with Focus on Cover Crops and Tillage. Precision Conservation Management (PCM) works directly with farmers and uses data analysis to determine how farmers can implement conservation practices without sacrificing profits. This webinar from Greg Goodwin (IL Corn Growers Association) and Gary Schnitkey (University of Illinois farmdoc team) covers 9 years of data-driven insights. We will emphasize profitable practices using cover crops. Profitability and tillage practices will be examined.

Illinois Injury Surveillance Efforts

Overview of agriculture-related injury and illness tracking programs active in Illinois. Will cover data collection methods, trends identified, and how surveillance information guides prevention initiatives for the agriculture community.

Enhancing Farm Connectivity: The Backbone of Modern Agriculture

Delve into the critical role of connectivity in modern farming. The first session of the I-FARM webinar series will explore the various technologies enabling seamless communication between farm equipment, sensors, and management systems. Attendees will learn about the latest advancements in IoT, satellite, and wireless communication technologies that are transforming the agricultural landscape.

Farm Robotics: Revolutionizing Agricultural Practices

Naveen Uppalapati, Research Scientist, Center for Digital Agriculture, UIUC

Explore the transformative impact of robotics in agriculture. The second series session will highlight the latest innovations in agricultural robots, including planting, harvesting, and monitoring robots. Attendees will learn about the benefits and challenges of integrating robots into farm operations and the future of robotic technology in agriculture.

Economics of Adopting Weeding Robots

Shadi Attallah, Associate Professor, Agricultural and Consumer Economics, UIUC

Shadi will examine the economic aspects of adopting weeding robots on farms. This session will cover how robot prices, corn prices, the robot weeding efficacy, and a farmer’s planning horizon affect how many robots to adopt and to what extent weeding robots can increase farm profitability and reduce weed resistance to herbicides.

Resources for Farmers in Crisis

When injury, illness, or natural disasters strike, farmers and ranchers need help to continue operating. This webinar highlights two key resources for farmers in crisis. We will explain the Farm…

Balancing Act: Negotiating Farmland Rents for 2025 in Illinois

University of Illinois agricultural economists Dr. Gary Schnitkey and Dr. Nick Paulson invite you to a webinar focused on farmland rent agreements for the 2025 production year. They will present an overview of the current state of Illinois farmland rents, explaining the factors that led to record-high rents in recent years and the economic conditions now pointing towards necessary adjustments.

Bridging the Gap: Technology Adoption in Small Holder Farms

Gregory Bernard, Assistant Professor of Plant and Soil Science, Tuskegee University

Adopting new technology for any size farming operation has its challenges. Discuss the unique challenges and opportunities smallholder farms face in adopting new technologies. This final series session will explore practical solutions and case studies of successful technology integration in small-scale farming. Attendees will learn about the barriers to adoption and strategies to overcome them.

H5N1 in America: Understanding the Outbreak and Illinois Response

This webinar will provide an overview of H5N1 in the U.S. and current surveillance and monitoring efforts in Illinois.
Matthew W. Nonnenmann, PhD, CIH, Professor, UNMC Department of Environmental, Agricultural and Occupational Health
Guy Sprouls, Dairy Equipment Specialist / State Rating Officer at Illinois Department of Public Health

IFES 2024 – Farm Policy Update

Jonathan Coppess will discuss the state of and outlook for the Farm Bill and farm policy including commodity (ARC/PLC), conservation, and crop insurance programs. He will review the issues challenging…

Add It Up: Property and Legacy on the Farm

This opening session focuses on the fundamental aspects of assessing and valuing farm property while considering its role in legacy planning. JR Glenn will share his legal expertise on property…

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