In a recent report, “Land Values 2014: At the Tipping Point,” Rabobank warns farmland may be heading for an asset bubble. Only two states, Arizona and West Virginia, have experienced zero or negative change in land values from 2005 to 2013, while farmland values in the Corn Belt have experienced sharp increases.

Graduated senior from Texas A&M Genesis Intern for GenexShawano, Wisconsin

Some dairymen are looking for ways to grow their herd, while others are concerned about maintaining herd size. Yet, all producers are concerned about generating revenue and maximizing profit on their farm business.

If this issue’s contents have two underlying themes, they relate to planning ahead to avoid common herd health challenges on your dairies and the transfer of your business to the next generation.

Would your state welcome a new dairy processing plant? Would it encourage you to expand your operation by adding cows or new facilities? Do you currently have easy access to the inputs and services you need to profitably run your dairy business?

You’re headed out to the state fair on a beautiful day, weather-wise. What do you carry with you? Your wallet? Keys? Those fit easily into your pocket. A water bottle in case it gets really hot? Maybe. A sweatshirt in case it gets cool in the evening? Probably a good idea.

Dairies, farmers and rural populations receive lines of credit to help run their operations from institutions such as the Farm Credit System, Farmer Mac, Farm Service Agency, as well as local banks. The following are statements from the House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on Livestock, Rural Development and Credit public hearing on June 25, which reviewed credit availability in rural America.