STARKVILLE, Miss. (RFD NEWS) — A new calendar year offers producers a natural opportunity to reassess how grain and livestock are marketed, not just how they are produced. Will Maples, assistant professor and economist with Mississippi State University Extension, says effective marketing plans help farms manage risk year-round rather than relying on a single sales decision.
Maples stresses that a marketing plan is not designed to capture the top of the market every year. Prices are shaped by supply, demand, and unexpected shocks, including weather, trade disputes, and geopolitical events. Instead, a sound plan creates discipline, helping producers make consistent decisions aligned with business goals rather than reacting emotionally to price swings.
Those goals should drive the plan. Risk tolerance, cash-flow needs, and time horizon vary widely across operations, so marketing strategies should support the broader business plan. Cost of production is the foundation, as knowing break-even levels allows producers to set realistic price targets that protect margins.
Maples emphasizes proactive marketing. Spreading sales throughout the year, aligning targets with seasonal price strength, and documenting decisions can reduce pressure from forced sales and improve long-term outcomes.
Farm-Level Takeaway: A disciplined, break-even-based marketing plan helps protect margins and reduce risk, even when markets remain unpredictable.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Farmers are in the midst of harvest as the government descends into a shutdown and the Farm Bill expires. Key federal departments, crop reporting, and aid programs important to the agricultural sector are now on hold.
October 02, 2025 10:54 AM
·
Students share their experiences overcoming anxiety through opportunities provided by the National FFA Organization.
October 01, 2025 04:40 PM
·
USDA’s report shows wheat strength overall, with winter wheat yields setting records, while spring wheat and rye saw declines. Oats and barley remain constrained by record-low acreage despite stable or rising yields.
October 01, 2025 04:24 PM
·
Bigger-than-expected corn and wheat stocks are bearish for prices, while soybean figures were neutral. Farmers may face additional price pressure as harvest accelerates.
October 01, 2025 04:02 PM
·
As flu season closes in, Dr. Gold outlines the steps to take when you get sick — including resting, staying hydrated, and knowing when to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
October 01, 2025 03:57 PM
·
The shutdown is yet another hurdle for producers navigating a challenging year marked by high input costs, volatile markets, and uncertain trade conditions.
October 01, 2025 10:45 AM
·
Under this agreement, SCDA will administer a program covering infrastructure and timber losses, as well as future economic and market losses.
September 30, 2025 04:31 PM
·
With China’s pullback, U.S. sorghum producers must broaden their export markets. Building connections now could help stabilize prices and demand for the upcoming larger crop.
September 30, 2025 04:23 PM
·
Higher domestic rail tariffs and mixed capacity shifts will influence grain movement this harvest. Strong corn exports provide momentum, but logistics costs remain a critical factor.
September 30, 2025 04:12 PM
·
