Hope for tough times

By Edgar Olson
Executive Director

With a few exceptions, Mother Nature smiled on the state this year with timely rain and warm sunshine, the necessary ingredients for another bountiful harvest.

Yet while farmers gather in an excellent crop, they can also expect to reap low commodity prices at their local elevator. It’s a scenario played out all too often the past few years.

At AURI, our mission is to help develop new uses for the commodities raised here in Minnesota, adding value that benefits producers. When commodity prices are good, the need for value-added uses may not seem critical. But when times are tough, these new uses play a key role in giving producers options for remaining profitable.

 In this issue, we’re taking a look at some activities that could give Minnesota producers cause for hope.

For example, a vital component of the economy is the livestock industry. Meat processing alone is a $3 billion industry in Minnesota. AURI surveyed meat processors in the state to determine the status and direction of the industry. See story on page four.

It hasn’t been high profile, but a research farm in southeastern Minnesota is one of the nation’s leading sites for investigating woody agriculture. Badgersett Research Farm is cultivating hybrid hazel bushes and chestnuts, not just for windbreaks, but as sources of food. Find out more on page eight.

Perhaps the greatest potential for the consumption of soybean oil is biodiesel. This alternative fuel is building some momentum and acceptance. On page 16, there’s a brief update on Minnesota efforts to promote soy diesel blends.

Interested in ag diversification? Farmers and others can now explore agricultural alternatives at a Web site jointly produced by AURI, the Department of Agriculture and the University of Minnesota College of Food and Environmental Sciences. See page 11 for more.

These are just a few of the stories you’ll find here. We hope you find them useful, enlightening and a source of hope for the future of Minnesota agriculture.