Extension Extras
Happy Thanksgiving???
By Paul Marcellino County Extension Agent

This year's Thanksgiving meal was probably more expensive than previous years' meals. Purdue Agriculture Economist Connie Alexander stated in a recent article, "This year we're seeing food prices increase at a rate of 4.4 percent, which is well above the 10-year average of 2.6 percent. In general, food price inflation is lower than the rest of inflation, but this year that's changed."

Alexander said dairy products increased 15 percent and eggs 45 percent. Another component of the food chain is wheat.

Because there were record low supplies, Alexander explained "The world's wheat supplies are at the tightest level since the 1975-76 crop year, and of course the world's population has grown since the 1970s," she said. "So, as a result, we're seeing prices for wheat products up as much as 10 percent."

Alexander had some positive information for families, however. She said fortunately the main course of the Thanksgiving meal was in good supply. Supplies were higher than last year, with wholesale prices averaging 90-94 cents per pound.

Therefore, when shoppers went to the grocery store this holiday season, they experienced only slight increases in meal ingredients.

It is believed that Americans still got a bargain. The Economic Research Service reported Americans only spent 9.9% of their disposable income on food in 2005. Twenty years ago the figure was 11.7 %.

Surprisingly good harvest

This year's harvest was a rapid harvest with the near perfect weather for harvesting crops. Many farmers were surprised to see the good yields considering the very dry summer. Prices maintained good levels and this will be a profitable year for many farmers and agribusiness.

Since grain prices have steadily increased over the last two years, land prices have also increased. In turn, this increased the value of many farm family estates. With this consideration and ever-changing tax laws, Purdue Extension will offer a program on Estate & Family Farm Business Transfer Planning Dec. 7 at the Wabash & Erie Canal Center in Delphi. The program will start at 8:30 a.m. Those interested in attending should contact Paul Marcellino.

There will be a pesticide training session for private applicators Dec. 10 at the Carroll County 4-H Exhibit Building in Flora. The program will start at 6:30 p.m. Pre-registration is requested.

Contact Paul Marcellino at (765) 564-3169 or email at pmarcellino@purdue.edu for additional information.