A farm financial health survey is being sent to farmers and ranchers in Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri. Mat Habrock, Nebraska’s assistant state ag director, says they’re working with the Ag Economics Department at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln on the regional survey. “All of us are trying to get a feel for how things are looking in the countryside financially with the restricted ag economy,” Habrock says. “Also, we’re looking at putting together that data that can be used not only by the states but also federal agencies as we think of some opportunities to support the needs of the countryside.”

The survey asks a variety of questions about farming operations, including purchasing decisions. Habrock says all responses will be kept confidential. “A lot of the questions are looking at changes in how producers are handling things year over year compared to years past,” he says. “Are they making any changes to their operations, delaying purchasing decisions, making changes in crop rotations or equipment purchases, land leases, things like that.”

Habrock says they’re hoping for a large response to get the most valuable information possible. Responses are due by July 24th. If you don’t receive one in the mail, farmers can access the survey online at “bit.ly/farmhealth“.

(Radio Iowa)