skip to Main Content

Addressing Mental Stress & Health in Agriculture

Farming and ranching are filled with stressors like financial pressures, uncertain conditions, long hours, and social isolation. This webinar focuses on mental health challenges common in agriculture and ways to foster resilience and wellbeing. We will discuss signs and symptoms of conditions like anxiety, depression, and suicide risk. You'll gain strategies for managing stress, building…

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.

Farm Safety for Youth: Keeping the Next Generation Safe

Children and teens make up a significant portion of injuries and fatalities in agriculture. This webinar looks at why young people are uniquely vulnerable to farm hazards. We will review child labor laws and resources for legally employing youth in agriculture. You'll learn about equipment risks, and key safety practices to prevent farm incidents. We'll…

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.

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.

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.

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 measures when working in hot conditions.

How Will Technology Shape the Farm of the Future

Discussion of current and upcoming technology that will change the way we farm. This includes discussions on Internet of Things, Autonomous Machinery, Sensors, and Livestock handling. We will discuss how each of these technologies will contribute to a safer and more productive farm. We will also cover what are the risks of these technologies and…

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, and ways to protect their safety and health. We will discuss common issues like pesticide exposure, musculoskeletal disorders, transportation incidents, and lack of adequate housing.…

Managing Risks with Cover Crops: A Case Study of the Most Profitable Illinois Farms Using Cover Crops

Cover crops remain the best conservation practice in the organic rich soils of the Midwest where nutrient loss, soil health, and climate change are concerns. Many farmers have also seen agronomic benefits related to weed control, water infiltration, and protection during crop-loss weather events. Still, there are challenges for farm-level profitability and risks. Using Precision…

Research and Strategies for Grain Entrapment Prevention

We will explore the world of grain safety, shedding light on various types of incidents and the alarming statistics surrounding them. We will delve into the immense pressure exerted by grain, a contributing factor to the severity of injuries and tragic fatalities. Moreover, we will examine the distinction between youth and adult entrapments, analyzing potential…

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

All Day Ag Outlook

The farmdoc Team, WILLAg.org, and University of Illinois Extension are proud to present the All Day Ag Outlook. This meeting has been an annual tradition in the month of March at the Beef House in Covington, Indiana since 1991.

This year's event is scheduled for Tuesday, March 5, 2024. The doors open at 7:30 a.m. central / 8:30 a.m. eastern and includes both coffee and rolls in the morning and a Beef House lunch.

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

Preventing the Spread of Infectious Disease on Farms, Ranches and Ag Workplaces

Farmers, ranchers, and ag operators were deemed ‘essential’ during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learning how to protect employees, families, clients, and the community evolved throughout the pandemic and uncertainty was often difficult to navigate. In the webinar, we hope to bring forward some of the lessons learned during the pandemic and help share strategies for responding…

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.

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.

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.

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 Illinois farms, covering topics like income, land values, and debt.

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 production costs in a low-price environment and suggest strategies to manage the expected tighter margins.

Farm Assets Conference

i-Hotel, Champaign, Illinois

An Update on Brazilian Crop & Trade Prospects | The 2023 Farm Bill | Row Crop Farming in a War Zone Roman Gorobets, Farmer - Ukraine | The RFS, Renewable Diesel, SAF & the Future of Biofuels | farmdoc S&D Tables & Price Prospects | ACE Commodity Markets Discussion | Field Crops Production Issues | The Value of Farmland

Becoming Part of the Solution: Joining PCM for Sustainable Agriculture

Are you interested in becoming part of a network that supports sustainable farming through data-driven decision making? Then this webinar, focusing on Precision Conservation Management (PCM), is for you. PCM is an innovative approach that combines financial analysis with conservation practice to help farmers make informed decisions that are both profitable and eco-friendly. This webinar…

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.

Navigating Carbon Markets: Opportunities and Strategies for Farmers

With the growing emphasis on climate change and sustainable practices, carbon markets are becoming an attractive opportunity for farmers to not only contribute to environmental conservation but also to generate additional income. This webinar will introduce you to the concept of carbon markets, how they work, and the potential benefits they hold for your agricultural…

Maximizing Returns through MRTN: A Farmer’s Guide

Join us for this informative session as we delve into the details of Maximum Return to Nitrogen (MRTN). Farmers in the Midwest face unique challenges when it comes to balancing soil health, crop yield, and cost-effectiveness. The MRTN approach provides a strategic solution, helping farmers achieve optimal results while reducing unnecessary expenses. This webinar will…

Join the Fight Against Herbicide-Resistant Waterhemp: Participate in Our Statewide Survey

Please join Dr. Aaron Hager and Travis Wilke of the University of Illinois for a webinar discussing their upcoming statewide survey of waterhemp resistance to Group 15 herbicides. Waterhemp is a troublesome weed that has developed resistance to herbicides from multiple site-of-action groups across Illinois and other states. This survey aims to gather waterhemp seed…

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.

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.

A farmdoc Journey in Brazil: AgTech and Innovative Farm Practices

Joana Colussi, Gary Schnitkey, Nick Paulson, and Eric Morgan recently traveled to Brazil as part of a research project on technology adoption among farmers, sponsored by the Lemann Center for Brazilian Studies. The team will share their observations and experiences from visiting the Agrishow, ag technology firms, University research groups, and farms in the Center-West.

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.

All Day Ag Outlook

The farmdoc Team, WILLAg.org, and University of Illinois Extension are proud to present the All Day Ag Outlook. This meeting has been an annual tradition in the month of March at the Beef House in Covington, Indiana since 1991. This year's event is scheduled for Tuesday, March 7, 2023. The doors open at 7:30 a.m.…

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

Top Ten Business Strategies 2023

As 2023 gets underway, several items deserve increased attention for farm businesses. FBFM presents a Top 10 list of forward looking strategies to consider for a successful year. Changes in cost, income, inflation, tax laws, and estate planning are some key topics discussed. Webinar will be presented by Bob Rhea and Brad Zwilling of Illinois…

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

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

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 brackets will be discussed. Income tax liabilities are often a significant reduction to net worth; planning before year end helps guide to better results. Looking…

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 heightened uncertainty surrounding supply chains create incentives to move forward with at least some level of fall application as a risk management strategy. This webinar…

Machinery Investments and Farm Financial Trends

Machinery investments on farms have been increasing due to various factors.  Brad Zwilling with Illinois Farm Business Farm Management (FBFM) will use FBFM data to look at the farm machinery investment over time as well as some other farm financial trends affecting farms.

Update on Farm Policy After the Inflation Reduction Act

The recent Inflation Reduction Act includes several agricultural provisions including conservation, energy programs, and farm debt relief. Learn more about the impact on agriculture included in this legislation and explanation of what this means as the expiration of the current farm bill approaches.

Farmland Prices in a Most Interesting Time

Farmland prices have increased at a phenomenal rate in the past year.  Returns to farmland remain high, but interest rates could increase.  Luke Worrell will present results of the mid-year survey of the Illinois Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.  Bruce Sherrick will provide perspectives on farmland prices.

Planning on Corn Belt Farms for 2023 Production

Profits are projected for Corn Belt farms in 2023, but likely lower returns than 2021 and 2022.  As the planning season for the upcoming crop year goes into full force, this outlook for 2023 farm returns will be useful in making rental, acreage, and input decisions, including focus on nitrogen decisions and the availability of…

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.…

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.

Implications of USDA Grain Stocks and Prospective Plantings Reports for Corn and Soybean Prices

The March Grain Stocks and Prospective Plantings reports usually result in one of the most volatile days of the year in the grain markets.  This year the reports have even more importance due to spiking prices as a consequence of the Ukraine-Russia crisis.  We will discuss the important USDA estimates released in the USDA reports…

Income, Taxes, and Management

With spring planting just around the corner, FBFM field staff will provide an income and tax update. A new educational program called AMP will be discussed that is being sponsored by Illinois Soybean Association, Illinois Farm Business Farm Management, and farmdoc.

PACE: Post Application Coverage Endorsement

The Post Application Coverage Endorsement (PACE) provides financial protection when farmers can not apply nitrogen post-planting. This is the first year for the pilot PACE is available in northern and central Illinois.

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. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act includes funding for a range of investments that will impact agriculture and rural communities. The Build Back Better framework’s…

Farmland Values and Rental Rates for 2022

Farmland market prices have risen dramatically over the past 12-18 months, and cash rents for 2022 experienced upward pressure as well. Factors affecting farmland markets and rental rates will be discussed including prospects for future income, impacts of continuing low interest rates, monetary policy changes, inflation updates, and export driven demand. Expanding investor interest in…

Supply Bottlenecks and Management Decisions

Covid control measures have led to supply chain issues that appear to be worsening for the 2022 production year. General price inflation also is occurring. As a result, all input costs will be considerably higher in 2022 as compared to 2021. We will discuss recent increases in costs and assess their impacts on the upcoming…

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 average, but costs will increase substantially. If prices remain above average, incomes in 2022 likely will be near average. However, the higher 2022 costs require…

Grain Market Outlook for 2022

Corn and soybean prices currently sit at historically high levels. A crucial question for 2022 is how long should we expect the good times to last? In this webinar, we discuss the 2022 supply and demand outlook for corn and soybeans. Two key factors are highlighted: trade with China and acreage supply response.

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 to arrive at these costs. Machinery management revolves around properly sizing machinery and optimizing use.

Factors affecting Farmland Markets

Farmland prices have risen rapidly in recent months both due to in part to rising income prospects and continuing low interest rates.   Uncertainty about monetary policy and inflation, strength of the dollar, and export driven demand highlight the typical explanations, but expanding investor interest in the asset class, new technologies for managing farmland investments, and…

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 moving into 2022.

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/

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.

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.

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 as a financial asset is that the returns are positively correlated with inflation, have low or negative correlation with equities, and have positive portfolio benefits…

Straining the alphabet soup: Post-election farm policy outlook after three years of ad hoc farm payments

We consider both the short- and medium-run outlook for US farm policy following the 2020 election. We provide an updated review of three years and four rounds of ad hoc farm payments, including an analysis of payment distribution and program design for the Market Facilitation Program (MFP) and Coronavirus Food Assistance Programs (CFAP). We discuss…

Farm Program and Crop Insurance Decisions for 2021

The election and enrollment period for the ARC and PLC programs for the 2021 crop year is now open, and decisions must be made by March 15th.  A new crop insurance program, the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO), will also be available for crops produced throughout the Midwest. ECO is a county-based program, similar to the…

2020 and 2021 Grain Farm Income Outlook with Risk and Rental Implications

Grain farm incomes in 2020 were supported by above-trend yields, higher prices than expected, and several forms of Federal payments. These 2020 incomes serve as a backdrop for 2021 income projections. Sufficient 2021 incomes will be dependent on a combination of above-trend yields and continued Federal payments. Risk management will be critical, and several new…

2021 Market Outlook for Corn and Soybeans

In a year stricken by the coronavirus pandemic and an extremely severe economic contraction, corn and soybean prices have risen to levels that seemed impossible just a couple of months ago.  A critical question for 2021 is the likelihood of sustaining corn prices near $4 and soybeans near $11.  In this webinar, we discuss the…

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 2019-20 marketing year consumption, ending stocks, and price prospects. The magnitude of planting acreage will clarify prospects for the size of the 2020 corn and soybean crops with implications for the 2020-21 balance sheets and price prospects.

Tillage, Nitrogen Use, and Cover Crop Impacts of Corn and Soybean Returns in Central Illinois

The profitability of different tillage systems and nitrogen application systems will be presented, along with the profitability impacts of cover crops. Data are for the years from 2015 to 2019 and come from Precision Conservation Management, a project having many partners with Illinois Corn as the lead partner. Over all, certain conservation practices have positive impacts on profitability, as will be discussed during this webinar.

Summary of 2019 FBFM Income and Expense Estimates for Illinois Farms

The 2019 growing season was a challenge for Illinois farmers. This webinar will focus on the financial results for 2019 from data from the Illinois Farm Business Farm Management (FBFM) Association. Attendees will learn about 2019 farm income and returns, cost of production and how the challenges of 2019 affected the financial position of Illinois farmers.

Updated Perspectives on the Pandemic and Policy Responses

Gary Schnitkey, Nick Paulson and Jonathan Coppess from the farmdoc team will provide updates on the most recent issues in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, including the state-of-play on various policies for assistance in response. The discussion will include potential impacts on commodities markets from the fallout around biofuels production, livestock feed demand and exports, as well as a review of current legislative and USDA policies and the potential impacts.

What is the Outlook for the Ethanol Industry Going Forward?

The ethanol production industry has been severely impacted by demand destruction caused by coronavirus restrictions. The purpose of this webinar is to examine the financial damage done to the industry and the outlook for recovery through the end of 2020. Scott Irwin and Todd Hubbs of the farmdoc team will be joined by Eric Moseby, General Manager of Lincolnland Agri-Energy in Palestine, Illinois to discuss these issues.

PPP – Eligible Uses and the Loan Forgiveness Process

Many businesses, including farmers and other agricultural enterprises, applied for and received Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loans.  To qualify for loan forgiveness, loan funds can only be used to pay for certain expenses.  Join Bob Rhea and Dale Lattz from FBFM and Nick Paulson from the farmdoc team to discuss these issues.

Agricultural Law Issues and the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has sent shockwaves through the agricultural production system and raised unique legal issues for input suppliers, crop and livestock producers, and processors. The Director of the National Agricultural Law Center, Harrison Pittman, along with University of Illinois Agricultural Lawyers A. Bryan Endres and Jonathan Coppess, will explore the pandemic’s impact on the legal enforceability of agricultural contracts, protections afforded under commodity specific statutes such as the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act and the Packers and Stockyards Act, regulatory compliance issues with potential large-scale euthanasia of livestock, state-level meat inspection laws, application of the Defense Production Act in the agricultural context, and a new generation of farm foreclosure moratorium laws. There will also be an update on additional relief measures, payment limits and current policy discussions at the federal level.

US-China Agricultural Trade and Shifting Consumption Patterns in China

Over the past two years, policy actions have had major impacts on trade in agricultural products between the US and China.  In addition, shifts in the consumption patterns are changing the demand for agricultural products by Chinese consumers.  Nick Paulson will be joined by Wendong Zhang, assistant professor in Agricultural Economics at Iowa State University, for a discussion of these issues and how they impact the outlook for U.S. agricultural exports.

Nick Paulson and Joe Glauber on Ag Trade

U.S. agricultural trade policy, China's push to reconfigure international supply chain lines, the entrance of Brazil and Ukraine into the commodity export markets, and the coronavirus pandemic have all disrupted the once relatively stable U.S. corn and soybean export markets. University of Illinois Agricultural Economist Nick Paulson and IFPRI's Joe Glauber will explore the policies and fundamentals behind the changes and probe the future impact.

The Impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic on Food Prices and Retail Food Sector

The retail food sector has been put under substantial stress by the coronavirus pandemic. What started out with runs on toilet paper quickly escalated to empty meat and bread aisles at grocery stores. Scott Irwin will join Jayson Lusk of Purdue University to discuss the how the pandemic has impacted food prices and logistical issues in this crucial sector of the American economy.

Back To Top