Polk County Farm Scene

2008 Wisconsin "PEPS" Program Entry Forms Now Available

The most expensive corn cropping season ever is occurring this year. For years, growers have sought ways to cut inputs to reduce costs. The year, however, due to strong prices, growers are adding inputs to produce extra bushels. Many of these inputs, such as fertilizer and seed, have nearly doubled in cost over the last few years. These changes have dramatically altered every growers "true" cost of crop production.

The PEPS (Profits through Efficient Production Systems) program was founded in 1987 on the vision that profitability is the ultimate goal in crop production. Now in its 22nd year, PEPS goes beyond typical yield contests by encouraging profitability, efficiency and conservation rather than productivity alone. Two options are available to growers in the PEPS program: contest and vertification only.

In the contest option, the top-three contestants of each district and division are recognized at the state level and in various publications. In the contest option, a plaque and cash award is given to the top contestant. The The verification only option allows farmers to compare the economics of their cropping system without entering the public contest. It is a way to confidently compare your system to other farmers, and learn ways to increase your competitiveness, especially during the tough seasons when 'mother nature' may not be so kind.

The four division that growers may enter include: Soybean Grain, Corn Grain: Cash-cCop, Corn Grain; Livestock and Corn Silage.

To obtain an entry form, please visit www.coolbean.info or contact the UW-Extension office. The deadline for entry is August 25, 2008.