|
|
Grazing survey indicates which counties have highest, lowest re
Iowa An Iowa cattle grazing survey conducted among agricultural producers and landowners indicates several trends among grazing rental rates and management practices in the state. The 2006 survey, conducted by the Iowa Beef Center, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Iowa Forage and Grassland Council, surveyed 448 agricultural producers in Iowa. Results were released this week. Some of the key findings include: --Kossuth, Pocahontas, Humboldt, Wright, Webster, Hamilton and Calhoun counties had the lowest annual average rent per acre at $24.50. Delaware, Dubuque, Jones, Jackson, Clinton, Cedar, Scott and Muscaline counties had the highest annual average rent per acre at about $45. The average rent per acre statewide was nearly $38. --The rent per acre was highest on lands that had the greatest productivity, which were lands with alfalfa and tall cool season grasses. Rates for lands with alfalfa were as much as $64 per acre and lands with tall cool season grasses were as much as $59 per acre. --Custom grazing fees on average per day were highest in the summer for a cow-calf pair, at 91 cents, and lowest for yearling cattle, at 78 cents. During the winter months, the highest daily fees were for developing heifers, at $1.14, and lowest for yearling cattle, at 65 cents. --The majority of custom grazers provided labor during both winter and summer months as part of their agreements with the cattle owners, but most owners still covered the cost of animal healthcare. Shane Ellis, Iowa State University Extension program specialist with the Iowa Beef Center, said the survey focused on a key group of producers affiliated with cattle grazing, and it provides additional details not found in the Cash Rental Rates for Iowa Survey published annually by ISU Extension. "Results from this survey will help landowners and tenants gauge the rental rate they are charging or paying," Ellis said. "People can use it as a source for what is going on in their area." For the complete survey results, visit www.iowabeefcenter.org. The Iowa Beef Center was formed in 1996 by a legislative mandate with the goal to support the growth and vitality of the beef cattle industry in the state. It links ISU Extension, research and education to directly help Iowa's beef producers and allied industries.
Copyright/Privacy
Copyright 1995-2012. High Plains Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. Any republishing of these pages, including electronic reproduction of the editorial archives or classified advertising, is strictly prohibited. If you have questions or comments you can reach us at High Plains Journal 1500 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd., P.O. Box 760, Dodge City, KS 67801 or call 1-800-452-7171. Email: webmaster@hpj.com |
|
