AgriSuccess
May/June 2010
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The future has a way of bringing surprises that no one anticipates. What will farm input costs be a year from now? What will our farm commodities be selling for in 12 months? Still, it is possible to identify potential game changers. For instance, American ethanol production has been a game changer you could see developing well in advance. We’ve had a taste of other game changers. For example, it’s widely expected that energy prices will resume an upward trajectory over the medium to long term, and that will affect agriculture in many ways. We touch on changes to plant genetics, trends in food consumption, as well as game changers that are more local and personal. There are usually more questions than answers as you try to predict the future, but it’s still important for farm operators to gaze into a crystal ball whenever they get the chance. The details may be murky, but you can sometimes glimpse the broad outline of how the future will emerge and then make adjustments accordingly. We value your feedback and ideas. You can reach me at kevin@hursh.ca. I respond to every email. |
Features
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Where is China in your farming future? With one-fifth of the world’s population and rising prosperity and demand, will it become a game changer for Canadian agriculture? |
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Using – and saving – energy in agriculture Analysts agree that fossil fuel costs will be higher in the future. Find out why this rising cost should be part of your five-year plan.
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Columns
| The big picture - Recognizing all the game changers Recognizing all the game changers. Macroeconomic events to regional issues.
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| Your money - Expert says expect modest, but steady fuel price increases Expect modest, but steady fuel price increases; calculating your farm’s real energy bill; lowering your dependence on oil.
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| Young farmer profile - New Brunswick producer goes big in blueberries New Brunswick producer goes big in blueberries Kevin Arseneau has developed many sources of business revenue. |
| Ask an expert - The crystal ball Dr. Gordon Surgeoner How is agriculture responding to game changers in food trends?
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| Safety on the farm - Farming with a disability It only takes a moment to change your life. Farming with a disability. |
| Planning to succeed - Are you ready for the unpredictable? It’s hard to plan for the unpredictable. Here’s what you can do to be prepared.
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| From FCC Canadian farmland values rise |
