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MSU releases input purchasing planners

Michigan State University Extension has created new resources to help farmers strategize their input buying for next year.

Farm Business Management Educator Jon LaPorte tells Brownfield the decision tools can help farmers be more intentional with how they purchase products.

“Do you buy it all at once?” he asks.  “Do you need to space out and spread out the risk that’s amounted with buying some of those products? Thinking about supply issues is a big factor.”

LaPorte says comparing retailers will also help farmers learn about local challenges.

“Get an idea on what their situation is, not only from a pricing standpoint but also from a supply standpoint,” he recommends.

He says on-farm storage and bulk buying are other ways farmers can find savings.

LaPorte is hosting a webinar at the end of November on input buying strategy options.