COMMON GROUND BLOG

Mar 3, 2014 | The Business of Agriculture

Nebraska is one of eight states still charging sales tax on repairs and parts for ag equipment, but that could change during the 2014 legislative session. We look at what that could mean to Nebraska and its ag producers.

Feb 27, 2014 | Rural Communities

If you haven’t seen Nebraska, this might be a good weekend to catch up on one of the most talked about films of the year. The Academy Awards are Sunday night. And even if host Ellen DeGeneres doesn’t talk about it, FCSAmerica plays a supporting role in the film.

Feb 27, 2014 | Crop Insurance

Complex rules can affect your insurance coverage when you make entity changes like forming or dissolving trusts, partnerships or corporations.

Feb 25, 2014 | Rural Communities

Sharing the story of her father-in-law’s death inside a grain bin never gets easier. But Mandy Hammes recounts the tragedy in the hope that other farmers will take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families. Her message is timely during Grain Bin Safety Week.

Feb 18, 2014 | The Business of Agriculture

Wise farmers like to pose a question that goes to the importance of risk management: Would you rather be lucky or smart? For national FFA week, we look at how agriculture educators and FFA chapters give aspiring producers the right answer.

Jan 31, 2014 | Rural Communities

The agriculture industry continues to attract college students looking for promising careers. To help finance their education, ag majors are invited to apply for $2,500 scholarships.

Jan 16, 2014 | The Business of Agriculture

Rising prices for farmland have been a hot topic. The latest data from our appraisal team suggest the market could be leveling off or in some cases softening.

Dec 30, 2013 | Crop Insurance

Heading into 2014, corn and soybean prices have declined while input prices are flat, so margins will be tighter. This intensifies the need for smart planning and marketing.

Dec 13, 2013 | The Business of Agriculture

The annual Executive Women in Agriculture conference is a great place to learn and share with other women producers.

Dec 2, 2013 | The Business of Agriculture

The South Dakota Rancher Relief Fund has raised nearly $1.8 million and is now accepting applications from producers who lost animals to Storm Atlas.

Nov 15, 2013 | From the Farm

My customer proudly tells people that he’s part owner of a $20 billion company.

Nov 4, 2013 | The Business of Agriculture

As our financial officers meet with customers affected by livestock losses in South Dakota and Nebraska, I’m reminded that recovery isn’t as easy as simply buying more cows.