Copyright Prairie Grains Magazine
February 2001

Developing 2001 grain market plan topic of Moorhead session

The University of Minnesota Extension Service is offering a one-day program for grain producers called “Developing a Grain Marketing Plan for the 2001 Crop,” to be held in Moorhead on Feb. 21, at the Red River Inn from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The objective of this one-day session is to develop a marketing plan for the 2001 grain crop for a sample case farm, and then for participants to develop their own plans. Working through this process will also allow an opportunity to review many grain pricing tools, including hedging with futures, cash marketing tools, option “fences,” and more.

This seminar will also feature the use of “Marketeer,” the new crop market planning software from the Center for Farm Financial Management at the U of M. Each attendee will receive a limited use sample of Marketeer, for developing a personal marketing plan. While not necessary to attend, participants are encouraged to bring their own laptop computer.

Registration is $75 per person ($30 for a spouse), which includes lunch and handouts. Attendance will be limited to 60 producers. If you are interested in learning more about the program, contact Ed Usset at (651) 681-7999, or e-mail at usset001@tc.umn.edu

 Registration questions should be directed to David Cloud at 1-800-367-5363.

Guide to collaborative marketing
The keys to survival and success for many farm families may be collaborative marketing. A publication from the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture gives 10 examples. The publication, “Collaborative Marketing—A Roadmap and Resource Guide for Farmers,” also lists advantages of cooperating with others, including:

•  Better ability to maintain the steady flow of high-quality product required to establish a consistent presence in the marketplace.

•  Taking advantage of size economies in processing, transportation and advertising.

•  Development of specialized skills and personal contacts needed for successful marketing.

•  Better bargaining power.

You can check the publication out on the Internet at www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/businessmanagement/DF7539.html. You can also purchase it through the Distribution Center, University of Minnesota Extension Service. Call 800-876-8636 and ask for number 7539. Or, order by e-mail: order@extension.umn. edu