Seasons and cycles are evident in many parts of agricultural production.  From the calendar to the weather and the markets and tax years, the next phase will arrive.  Plants have growth stages and livestock have reproduction cycles.  Families have generations and equipment manufacturers have model numbers.  Patterns exist that repeat themselves.  If we do not plan and prepare for the next season, we will not be ready.  Planning allows us to prepare for the coming cycle instead of reacting when it arrives.

Michigan farmers, are you getting down looking at the market forecast for corn and bean prices?  Can you get enough yield with the needed input expenses to turn a profit on those acres?  Maybe it’s time to look around for a better place to invest some of your time and money.  The good news is you live in Michigan!  Agricultural diversity exists in our state only second to California and we have only 35% of their land mass.  That means equipment dealers, input providers, research institutions and markets are established and local for about 300 agricultural products.  That does not even include agri-tourism which is growing rapidly as most of our neighbors know little or nothing about what we do.  Why not inform them, entertain them and take their money?

Farming can be a challenging occupation.  Weather is certainly a major factor in many of the things we do.  We all have weather apps on our devices and some of us rely on several different sources for weather information to aid in daily decision making.  Data based decisions are generally more likely to provide favorable results, but risk is always a factor.  Any type of outdoor crop is uniquely exposed to temperature, humidity, precipitation and wind.  All these influences will play a significant role in the success of our crops and ultimately our bottom line at year end...

There is no exact number for any farm but consider a few questions: How pinched is your time during watering season? How far away are your irrigated fields? What is your crop mix, and their respective water demands? Do you need to ration water between pivots?

Nitrogen is a key factor in maximizing corn yield.  In addition to being the fertilizer ingredient needed in the greatest quantity, timing is also important.  Don’t forget that if available N isn’t the limiting factor, it really won’t matter how much extra is applied.  Work closely with your agronomist and keep monitoring throughout the season.  The farther ahead you apply your nitrogen before it is needed, the greater the probability it may not be available when the plant needs it.  This is a key advantage of fertigation…

Challenging times create opportunities for those who make the best decisions.  If you continue to be an above average manager, others who are not will be left behind, bringing more potential for you.  Research, planning, and building relationships with field experts in several areas of your business can give you the winning edge.  Sometimes a little risk can add value ahead of the curve giving you a jump start.  Look around your neighborhood, county and perhaps a bit further.  What methods and products are the winners using that you are not.  You don’t have to try unproven methods, maybe just not normal practices in your neighborhood…

Without getting into the numbers on thousands of scenarios, I will provide a general overview and break it down to answer your question… Will Center Pivot Irrigation Pay on My Farm?