Determination should include
- cost of seed
- fertilizer
- weed and disease control
- fuel costs
- land costs (e.g., rent, mortgage)
- labor costs
- equipment costs
- marketing costs
- insurance costs
- depreciation
- available subsidies and incentives from state and federal government
- break-even cost.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What is the most expensive input in crop production?
- Why are budgets important when planning to produce a crop?
- What government programs are available to offset costs for producers?
- How does the operations size affect input costs and profitability?
- How can regenerative practice affect input costs and add value?