Focusing on What We Can Control

"Welcome to the end of 2024 – a year that came in like a lamb and then turned into some kind of confused lion for the rest of the year," said Scott Nelson, Federated's director of agronomy.
 
It was a year of extremes: wind, rain, no rain, and crop diseases. (Tar spot in corn moved from the south and is now in a large portion of our territory.)
 
But, those are all things we have no control over, and as much as we worry about every detail in our farming operations, worry won’t help.
 
Instead, let’s talk about the things that are in our control: Think about your 2025 corn and soybean crops growing under more normal conditions. What could cost you bushels? We don’t want the limiting factors to be things we have control over, such as:
 

• Hungry plants that need nutrients and fertilizer. What can be done to prevent weeds from sapping the crops of available water and nutrients? (Weed control is essential.)
• Diseases, such as tar spot, that can decimate a crop. What steps can be taken to keep diseases at bay? (Fungicides go a long way to protect plants.)

 
Every farmer has different needs specific to their operation, and our awesome agronomy team can work with you to find the balance that fits your specific needs.
 
The partnerships we have with our customers is something I am proud of. The agronomy team will work hard outlining your 2025 blueprint, and they will work side by side with you – for your operation, your farm, your fields.
 
Thank you for putting your trust in Federated Co-ops. It is a responsibility we do not take lightly.
 
Bring on 2025!!