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Cost of Production Where Are We At And Where Are We Going. By Duane Griffith Montana State University Extension April 2008. As We Discuss Cost Related Issues, Keep Volatility in Mind. Types of Costs. Operating Costs (Variable Costs) Seed, Fertilizer, Chemicals, Crop Insurance
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Cost of ProductionWhere Are We At And Where Are We Going By Duane Griffith Montana State University Extension April 2008
Types of Costs Operating Costs (Variable Costs) Seed, Fertilizer, Chemicals, Crop Insurance Fuel, Oil, Repairs Vary with the level of production Usually on a per acre basis but can be lumpy Ownership Costs (Fixed Costs) Taxes, Interest (Opportunity Costs), Insurance, and Depreciation
Feeling the Pressure Production response to high prices = Downward pressure on prices Prices will remain relatively high Increased acreage planted = Upward pressure on production inputs Fuel, Chemicals, Fertilizers, Insurance etc. Upward pressure on land rents
Chemicals • Many chemicals are petroleum based • Expect prices in the long run to rise
Summary for Costs • Some costs may ease in short run • Long term picture is upward pressure on production inputs • Move more towards the “Cost – Price Squeeze” we are familiar with in the long run
Managing Costs of Production • Energy Use • Input Use • Crop Mix • Tillage Systems
http://www.montana.edu/extensionecon/software/CropMixTillageSysEnergyPrice.swfhttp://www.montana.edu/extensionecon/software/CropMixTillageSysEnergyPrice.swf
Current Cost of Production Estimates http://www.montana.edu/extensionecon/cropdownloads.html