Farms

2018 Farm Numbers in the Dakotas Drop From Previous Year

The number of U.S. farms dropped 12,800 from 2017, to slightly more than 2 million.

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) _ Farms continue to disappear off the Dakotas landscape, especially smaller ones. The federal Agriculture Department reports that total farm numbers in 2018 dropped by 300 in North Dakota and by 400 in South Dakota. North Dakota had 26,100 farms and South Dakota 29,600. That mirrored the national trend. The number of U.S. farms dropped 12,800 from…

Searching for Stability: Farmers Discuss Impact of New Farm Bill

Growers say the new bill should help younger people get into farming

FARGO, N.D. — With tariffs and falling commodity prices, 2018 proved to be a tough year for farmers across North Dakota. As they get ready for a new year, farmers say the new Farm Bill will give them a cushion to stay afloat economically. “We’ve got a five–year program so we can make plans you can make plans and have stability….

Mexican Soybean Buyers Visit North Dakota Farms

The Soybean Council has been hosting groups from several countries over the past few weeks

CASSELTON, N.D. — Mexican soybean buyers visited farms in North Dakota.  The Soybean Council has hosted several groups from different countries over the past few weeks. “We’re grateful they take the time to leave their companies and families to come over here, and take a firsthand look at our crop, and we’re happy to host them and tell the North…

Filipino Soybean Buyers Visit North Dakota Farms

Their trip takes them through every step of the soybean trading process

FARGO, N.D. — The North Dakota Soybean Council hosted soybean buyers from the Philippines so they could see farms around the state and see what their product goes through from start to finish. “From the farm— the elevator, the crushing facility, the rails, and in two days’ time we’re going to see the Port of Grays harbor as well. All the way…

Longtime Vendors Cherish Bonds Made at Fergus Falls Farmers Market

The market has been going on for each of the last seven summers

FERGUS FALLS, Minn. — People in Fergus Falls had the chance to find some healthy snacks and mingle with vendors from the community. For seven years, the Fergus Falls Farmers Market has been a spot where people can socialize and indulge in local goods. Some of the goods for sale were jams, beans, cucumbers, and furnishings like miniature wooden benches. Lynn…

Senator Tina Smith Encourages Skills-Based Learning in Minnesota

Senator Smith spoke with local business and agricultural leaders in Moorhead

MOORHEAD, Minn. — Joined by farmers and community members, Senator Tina Smith listened to perspectives on national issues that might affect the lives of Minnesotans. “Well trade is good. We need strong export markets in Minnesota which is such a powerful agricultural producer but that trade needs to be fair,” said Smith. Smith also spoke with  business leaders about how Minnesota…

Farmers Learn How to Improve Sales at Farmers Markets

The Farmers Market Round Up teaches farmers how to be better salespeople

FARGO, N.D. — Farmers learned several lessons about being more approachable at farmers markets, such as having service with a smile, an attractive and eye–catching display of produce and other goods, as well as meaningful connections with consumers. These producers listened to new ideas and updates on upcoming farmers markets this year. Organizations like the Foundation for Agricultural and Rural…

From Farmers to Congress: Growers Talk 2018 Farm Bill with Area Politicians

Farmers meet with politicians to make suggestions for the 2018 Farm Bill

FARGO, N.D. — It’s a bill which affects every farmer in the country. The congressional delegation in North Dakota wants to make sure they get it right. The 2018 Farm Bill, which is in the debate stage, acts as a federal safety net for farmers in the U.S. When something bad happens to farmlands, a little extra financial help can…

North Dakota Sees Drop in Farms, Ranches in 2016

The number of small farms and ranches in terms of sales increased, while the number of large operations declined

  NORTH DAKOTA — The number of farms and ranches in North Dakota dropped slightly last year. The federal Agriculture Department estimates 29,800 agricultural operations in the state in 2016, down 200 from 2015. The number of small farms and ranches in terms of sales increased, while the number of large operations declined. Land in farms and ranches totaled 39.1…