Not too long ago, it was common for farmers in the US to grow more varied field crops than the corn and soybeans that dominate the agricultural landscape today. But as markets for farm products become more consolidated and fewer farmers raise livestock, viable opportunities to sell small grains, pulse crops and dry edible beans, or to use them to enhance profitability on the farm, erode.
On the farm, including effectively managed small grains in crop rotations can improve yields for other crops, like corn and soybeans, in the rotation. More variety in the rotation can improve soil fertility and mitigate pest and disease pressure. Where opportunities to sell small grains exist, more varied crop rotations also help farmers avoid risk from relying too much on a particular crop that may fail in the field or decline in price. In many communities, increased crop variety can contribute to economic development as businesses are built, or expand, to connect small grains, pulses and beans with consumers. Finally, growing these crops can empower farmers to make decisions that are good for water quality and soil health, including management practices that are eligible for conservation payments.
Stay posted here, or follow TMD FFS on Facebook and LinkedIn, for frequent updates and resources that may help farmers consider small grains for their farm.
Research
It’s a tall order to raise an unfamiliar crop. TMD FFS can help farmers and grain chain stakeholders track small grain research and instruction developed from sources like state extension offices, Practical Farmers of Iowa, and USDA’s Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education agency. These resources can help farmers consider whether small grains may benefit their operations. Stay posted here for opportunities for farmers to participate in on-farm research, which serve as an opportunity for farmers to learn about new crops in a supported environment.
News and Resources
Inputs and Equipment
Farmers and other grain chain stakeholders can also look to TMD FFS for resources and discussion on small grain seed, equipment and inputs.
Conservation Support
When farmers do decide to take up small grains, they may be eligible for technical and financial support, or payments for conservation benefits achieved. TMD FFS will highlight ways farmers, their communities, and grain chain stakeholders can utilize conservation programs to improve water quality and soil health with small grain production.
News and Resources
Linking Farmers and Other Small Grain, Pulse and Bean Stakeholders
Keep in mind, farmers can’t grow small grains if they have no expectation of a market for sale or an economic benefit to the farm. Working around existing policy and market infrastructure to bring more small grains to the fields and consumers is challenging, but farmers, millers, bakers, maltsters, brewers and distillers increase their chances of success by establishing trust and working closely together. TMD FFS can help other grain chain stakeholders collaborate with farmers for mutual success and economic and conservation benefits in their communities.