'Can't get adjusted to these prices'

Smaller equipment getting closer look?

There's a good story in the Agriculture Online Farm Business forum this week:

"Many, many years ago a good friend of mine bought some ear corn from an old farmer. After loading it we went to a local mill to weigh it and pay the old farmer. After getting it weighed the mill employee told the old farmer 'That will be $0.50 for weighing the truck.' The old farmer stood there a minute and grudgingly dug down in his pocket for the money. While doing this and shaking his head he said the words I will never forget: 'I just can't get adjusted to these prices.' My friend and I have laughed about this for many years. Sad to say I now know how the old farmer felt. Prices have changed so much for what we sell and buy that it is almost impossible to feel confident in the decisions you make. "

Funny, sad story, but true, eh? Crop producers are taking it on the chin with input prices, and livestock farmers with feed costs. And, everyone is getting hammered by high fuel prices.

In another discussion group thread, farmers list ways they're cutting back on fuel and other energy costs. The thing that struck me the most about this conversation is how much farmers are changing vehicles--using smaller cars and pickups, motor scooters, and even golf carts to replace bigger rigs for chores and local transportation.

Check out the whole list of tips: Farm Business Talk.