By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University Extension introduces an updated version of the Crop Compare program, a user-friendly spreadsheet designed to help farmers evaluate different cropping options.
This innovative tool is now available for 2024, accessible online at ndsu.ag/cropcompare, enabling producers to make more informed planting decisions based on direct costs and projected yields.
The Crop Compare program offers projections for nine North Dakota regions, allowing users to input their farm's specific expected yields and input costs.
By setting a reference crop and its anticipated market price, the program compares it against a variety of other crops, ranging from nine to 18 depending on the region. It calculates the "break-even" prices for these crops, providing insights into which options might yield the best returns over variable costs.
Ron Haugen, NDSU Extension farm management specialist, highlights the tool's utility, especially in a market where grain prices are volatile. "The program provides a tool for producers to check the changing scenarios until final planting decisions are made this spring,” says Haugen.
This feature enables farmers to stay ahead of market fluctuations and plan their cropping strategy with greater confidence.
While the Crop Compare program focuses on variable costs, Haugen advises considering potential differences in fixed costs that could affect the overall profitability of each crop choice. These might include variations in labor, management, and the associated risks of cultivating different crops.
By leveraging the Crop Compare program, North Dakota farmers can navigate the complexities of agricultural planning with ease, ensuring they are equipped to make the best possible decisions for their farming operations in the coming year.
Photo Credit -north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Education