5steps.jpg (6122 bytes)


Note: This information is intended solely as a general guide and is not
intended to reflect or predict actual costs of any one particular farming operation.

Step 1 - Project Your Acres and Average Yields

Crop Acres Yield/Acre Bushels to Sell
Corn 500 145 72,500
Soybeans 500 45 22,500

Step 2 - Figure Your Costs Per Acre

Crop Cost / Acre
Corn $300
Soybeans $200

Step 3 - Set A Profit Goal

Crop Profit / Acre
Corn $50
Soybeans $50

Step 4 - Figure Your Target Price

Crop Cost / Acre + Profit / Acre ÷ Yield / Acre = Target Price
Corn $300 $50 145 $2.41
Soybeans $200 $50 45 $5.56

Step 5 - Choose A Marketing Alternative
That Fits The Current Situation

If the current price is below your target price, enter Target Contracts; if your price is not reached by harvest, sell to avoid additional costs and risk and use Minimum Price to stay in the market. If the current price is at or above your target price, lock it in with a Forward Contract.