2-4 IAT 2012 Overview

2012: A Strong Year for Most Ag Producers 

Every once in a while, you run into a genius. There are guys  who don’t mind sitting down and meticulously reviewing spreadsheets, data collections, predictions and all of that sort of thing that help us make decisions drive the world in a better direction. One such guy is Michael Stolp, VP-Market Research and Development  for Northwest Farm Credit Services  over in Spokane.  Michael produces what he calls Northwest Farm Credit Services’ Knowledge Center Market Snapshots.  We are going to take a look at some highlights but here is Michael with an overview of 2012.  “The Northwest agricultural industry remains strong, in the midst of continued volatility, supported by strengthening financial positions for most producers and favorable markets. Excellent yields and high prices are resulting in good profits for apple, wheat and sugar beet growers, while tight supplies are bolstering returns for cow-calf and hay producers. Exceptions include thin profit margins for dairy producers and low open market potato prices. The weak housing market continues to inhibit recovery in forest products and nursery industries, but U.S. consumers continue to purchase more wine despite slow growth in the domestic economy.”