Al Mussell

Overview The survey Farm optimism/attitudes What changes are they planning? How are service providers perceived?

Purpose- to understand economic attitudes, perceptions and intents Confidence in ag economy Investment, with some emphasis on land Planned adjustment to ag market conditions Forthcoming farm ownership/organization changes The Survey

455 farmers, subscribers to Western Producer and Country Guide Mostly crop producersMostly from 3 Prairie provinces Relatively larger, older, and more organized as corporations vs. census reference Who Responded?

How would you rate the current state of economic conditions in the agriculture sector and in your own operation- today versus 12 months out? Thinking about your farm's situation right now, how comfortable are you with making a capital purchase or expenditure for your farm such as land, equipment or buildings? Compared to 12 months ago, are you now more or less comfortable making a major capital purchase or expenditure for your farm? Business Confidence and Planned Changes

Important Agri-Food Sector Issues or Threats Select the top 3 issues, which represent the most important issues or threats to the success of the Canadian agriculture sector

Important Issues or Threats- Own Farm Select the top 3 issues, which represent the most important issues or threats to the success of your operation

Symmetry in Issues and Threats; Dichotomy in Confidence Most Important Issues and Threats

To adjust to lower price environment To succession issues Changes Planned

How are you making adjustments to reduced crop revenues vs. the last 5-6 years? Adjustments Planned in Cropping Practices

34% of respondents plan to make changes in ownership of farm 62% of those planning changes will be transferring ownership to member of immediate family or a partner 30% of those planning to transfer to family member or partner had a formal plan in place Ownership/Succession

Who do you rely upon as your most trusted business advisors? Most Trusted Advisors

More confidence in themselves that their sector- on the same issues 56% at least as confident making investments as last year, despite crop price changes They have retooled; few financial concerns But, additional investments may complicate succession issues left in the background What Inferences Can be Drawn?

Technology, investment treadmill continuing to pressure farm structure But understanding land purchase behaviour remains elusive, complex Broad shifts to lower crop prices not expected Business trust based upon knowledge, personal relationships, perceived integrity What Inferences Can be Drawn?