Barley producers are being reminded the current market price is below the loan rate so a Loan Deficiency Payment is now available.

LDPs can be requested any time after the barley is harvested. Production can be certified or a measurement service can be requested to determine production. Although the rate for Aug. 14 was only $0.05/bushel, producers are being reminded that LDP rates change daily.

LDP's must be requested before selling the production. Also acreage must have been reported to FSA and conservation compliance provisions do apply.

Corn and soybean prospects

Corn and soybean crop conditions are generally good, with some fields really benefiting from the recent rains in late July and August. A recent study done by Penn State indicated that an inch of rain in July relates to about 12.5 bushels per acre. The recent USDA Crop progress reports indicate that 78 percent of the Pennsylvania corn crop is rated good to excellent and 75 percent of the soybeans are rated good to excellent.

I suspect we will encounter some very high yields of corn in some fields and lots of good to average yields. Now is the time to start doing some preseason yield estimates. Many growers pushed populations this year and the lack of heat and drought stress in some areas could result in a yield response from this tactic. The biggest concern now for crops will be maturity related and perhaps a slow dry down period.

Soybeans seem more variable with a few more later planted fields in the landscape, but with the recent rains, many are increasing in height substantially. If we can continue to have some warm weather without excessive moisture through the end of the season, I think our yield prospects will be very good. With soybeans, some producers cut back on plant populations, and this season could favor that tactic. We still have a lot of growing season left for soybeans but at this point I am optimistic about yield prospects for this crop as well

Grain producers should be making plans now for storage, handling and marketing of the crop. The grain bin loan program will be explained in a future news release.

Ag Progress Days

Ag Progress Days begins on Tuesday and runs through Thursday. See the APD Web site http://apd.psu.edu/ for daily times and specific attractions. Sponsored by Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences, the event is held at the Russell E Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs about 9 miles southwest of State College on Route 45.

Ag Progress Days is the largest outdoor agricultural exposition in the state attracting more than 400 commercial exhibitors displaying their latest goods and services. Interactive educational exhibits, guided tours and workshops will show how agricultural researchers and educators are addressing important issues, safeguarding and improving our food supply and the environment, and helping to enhance the efficiency and profitability of agriculture and related industries.

Admission and parking are free.

Luke Fritz is executive director of the Butler County Farm Service Agency.