Due to the state's high land values, property taxes and labor rates, the cost to grow field crops in New Jersey is 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.

However, higher prices for field crops can be attained by increases in regional demand and by identifying methods to add value to the product.

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture's current efforts to assist the industry include its seed certification program, which protects farmers from purchasing contaminated, mislabeled and inferior seed products that result in lower crop production and economic loss.

In keeping with the goals outlined in its strategic plan, the Department continues to identify strategies to ensure the economic viability of the state's field crop industry as well as the agricultural industry as a whole.

STRATEGIES

• Support Organic Field Crop Production
  • Encourage the production of certified organic soybeans, corn and wheat to increase the value of these crops.
    
  • 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.
    
  • Help pair growers of organic hay and other feeds with organically raised livestock and pleasure horse owners.
    
    
• Explore Opportunities to Diversify Farm Income
  
  
  • Encourage growers to divert a small fraction of acreage now used for field crops to other seasonal products, such as pumpkins, to help cushion against dips in commodity market prices.
    
  • Educate growers about agri-tourism opportunities.
    
    
• Support Plans for Ethanol Plant
  • Facilitate and support efforts to construct an ethanol plant in South Jersey. The plant will be the first in the Mid-Atlantic region and will create a major new market for the state's grain growers and elevate the price paid for regionally produced corn.
    
    
• Investigate Market Opportunities for Edamame --Vegetable Soybeans
  • Research this variety of vegetable soybean, which 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.
    
  • Investigate marketing opportunities and channels of distribution to capitalize on edamame's increasing popularity among all ethnic groups. Processed edamame retails between $5.99 - $6.99 for a 30 oz. clamshell package or $2.99 for 16 ounces of frozen shelled beans.
    
    
• Assist in Addressing Labor Issues
  • Continue the commitment to programs that support worker training, keep workers healthy and safe, and address issues such as farm labor housing.
    
  • Support reform of policies and procedures addressing temporary agricultural worker visas at the federal and state level.
    
  • Encourage farmers to take a pro-active approach to learning about their responsibilities at both the federal and state levels to ensure worker safety.