Farmer Sentiment Rises as Lower Crop Price Risks Ease

Nov 14, 2023

By Clayton Baumgarth

Farmer sentiment saw a slight uptick in October, thanks to decreased concerns about low crop and livestock prices.

The Ag Economy Barometer index rose four points as producers expressed slight optimism about current and future prospects on their farms. The report cited higher-than-expected corn and soybean yields as well as a modest rally in corn prices as causes for the increase.

The Farm Financial Performance Index was at its highest reading since April; it is 7 percent above its reading from last year. This increase stands in contrast to the USDA forecast for 2023 net farm income below the previous year.

Despite the perception that financial conditions are stronger than the previous month, the Farm Capital Investment Index fell to its lowest rating of the year. Three-quarters of respondents said it is a bad time to make large investments in farm operations.

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Video: How Swine Nutrition Can Revolutionize Biogas Production - Dr. Felipe Hickmann

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Felipe Hickmann from Laval University explores how nutritional strategies and manure management impact biogas production in pig farming. He breaks down the science behind anaerobic digestion at low temperatures and explains how dietary adjustments affect methane production and environmental sustainability. Learn how producers can reduce emissions and improve resource efficiency. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Lowering crude protein can reduce nitrogen in manure, but only if animal intake doesn’t compensate by increasing feed consumption."

Meet the guest: Dr. Felipe Hickmann / felipe-hickmann-963853a6 is a PhD research assistant at Laval University, specializing in swine and poultry sustainability. With extensive experience in manure management, nutritional strategies, and precision livestock technologies, he contributes to improving environmental outcomes in animal agriculture.