Expectations For Area Row Crops Mixed Into 2022

Today’s Northwest Farm Credit Services quarterly commodity snapshot series takes a look at row crops across the PNW. Bill Perry, Vice President at NWFCS, said their 12-month outlook projects that contract potato producers will be profitable.

“Open potato returns are projected to be slightly profitable. The amount of uncontracted potatoes acres will likely decrease as higher cost of production will encourage producers to shift uncontracted acres to other commodities. Fuel and fertilizer costs will continue to rise going into 2022.”

Perry noted the same cannot be said for local onion growers, where NWFCS expects growers to breakeven.

"Producers with remaining 2021 large onions in storage will be well positioned to capture higher prices. Profitability in 2022 will depend on growing conditions; increased moisture is needed to make up for 2021 shortages. Rising input costs will create headwinds for producer profitability.”

And when it comes to area sugar beet growers, Perry says profitable returns are expected.

“Rising input prices will provide headwinds, but favorable producer payments will counteract increased costs.”

Join us Monday as we wrap up our commodity snapshot series with a look at the cherry and wine industries.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com