A new year brings with it some anticipation. We farmers and ranchers are filled with hope for the ultimate growing season, great crop yields, strong markets, high demand, favorable calving weather, high calving percentages rates, and efficient rates of gain for fed cattle. On the flip side, we have suspicions that none of the above is going to happen, that the banker is going to be most unhappy, and that our bank accounts will be very lonely. For ag producers, every year is filled with uncertainty and on any given day we may be encouraged or discouraged, or both, about the things we can and cannot control.
At this writing the government is still in partial shutdown mode. I am proud to say that, at least so far, when farmers and ranchers don’t get what we want we don’t just quit. Instead, we work harder and smarter.
The good news for crop producers today is that multi-peril crop insurance is still at work for us. The government shut down does not affect Bauman Agency’s ability to service our insureds. Although crop insurance premiums are supported with some government subsidies, crop insurance sales and service thankfully remain in the private sector. As crop producers select their 2019 coverage types and levels in the next few weeks, they can be assured that we will remain accessible, well trained, and willing to share our expertise to growers keeping their operation’s success as top priority. Bauman Agency offers a unique perspective in the crop insurance industry because all 6 of our licensed agents are also ag producers. Since we all have our own farming operations, we understand your need for agents with a thorough understanding of production agriculture, crop insurance, and how the two best work together. At Bauman Agency, we understand just how important dedication to the grower is.
With this in mind, we are once again bringing in grain marketing analyst Rich Morrison of Diversified Services Marketing Group. Rich can be found on twitter @richmarketguru. We believe that “market guru” is an apt description for Rich. He will be presenting his annual market update at our “Producing Solutions with you Crop Insurance 2019 Update” at the Nordby Exhibit Hall on the South Dakota State Fair Grounds on Friday morning, February 8, at 10 am. (Come at 9 am and have coffee and some one-on-one time with Rich.) Following Rich’s presentation, we will update you with the latest changes and clarifications in crop insurance and Precision Planting and how to make them work for you. Join us for lunch and be on your way armed with valuable information for success in 2019. Gaining an understanding of market trends, grain marketing plans, options for yield advantages and planting efficiencies, along with the best crop insurance risk protection, go hand in hand when preparing for the crop year. Take advantage of this opportunity and benefit your farm. Though not required, we would appreciate an RSVP by calling the office at (605)353-1112.
Be assured, whether the wall is up or down, whether the government is opened or closed, at Bauman Agency, we will keep working with you to create success and stability for your operation in 2019. We pride ourselves in being accessible to your needs and look forward to seeing you on February 8th! Happy New Year!