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2005 Economic Development Strategies - Field Crops
In 2002, New Jersey harvested more than 338,000 acres of field crops worth an estimated $47 million. The leading field crops harvested were 115,000 acres of hay, 97,000 acres of soybeans, 88,000 acres of corn for grain and silage, 32,000 acres of winter wheat plus additional acreage of barley, white potatoes and sweet potatoes. Contributing to the State’s agricultural economy, field crops provide animal feed and help to maintain open space.
Due to the state’s high land values, property taxes and labor rates, production costs in New Jersey are higher than in most other production areas. With commodity prices based on national production costs, yields and demand, it is less profitable to produce commodity items in New Jersey than elsewhere.
In 2004 market opportunities for edible soybeans were investigated, progress toward the construction of an ethanol plant continued and a list of organic hay producers was created.
In 2005 efforts to support organic crop production, farm income diversification, the establishment of an ethanol plant, the prospect of commercially produced edible soybeans, and grower education about agri-tourism opportunities will be continued.
Field Crop Strategies
5.1 Support Organic Field Crop Production
46) STRATEGY – Encourage the production of certified organic soybeans, corn and wheat to increase the value of these crops.
47) STRATEGY – Assist in linking growers with organic food processors to help identify new market opportunities and take advantage of the growing demand for processed food products made from organic ingredients.
5.2 Support Plans for a Green Energy Initiative
48) STRATEGY – Continue to facilitate and support efforts to construct an ethanol plant in South Jersey. The plant will create a major new market for the state’s grain growers, and has the potential to elevate the price paid for regionally produced corn. A market for distiller’s grain, a by-product of the manufacturing process, will also be promoted.
49) STRATEGY- In support of New Jersey’s soybean industry, the construction of a bio-diesel plant should be explored in New Jersey.
5.3 Seek New Markets for New Jersey Grain Crops
50) STRATEGY – Support New Jersey production research into edamame, a variety of vegetable soybean. Edamame does not require processing to be ready for human consumption, can be consumed fresh or frozen, and is high in protein and low in cholesterol and fat. Continue to investigate marketing opportunities and channels of distribution to capitalize on edamame’s increasing popularity among all ethnic groups.
