Prices & Outlook
This section provides current and historical information on major commodities, land and other inputs, agricultural trade, and the general economy.

Purdue Extension Means Business
Starting a successful new business takes more than a good idea or great product. You need an understanding of your market and of the industry, and the right technology. You need to know how you will price, promote, and distribute your product. Above all, you need a carefully thought-out business plan.

Extension & Outreach Programs
Educational and training opportunities are available for diverse audiences related to agriculture and the food sector. Some of these involve a fee for participants.

Publications
Purdue Agricultural Economics Report (quarterly) and selected recent publications.

Agricultural Policy
The 2008 Farm Bill was passed on June 18, 2008. The new Farm Bill will be in place through the 2012 crop. This Farm Bill contains far reaching policies on topics from commodity programs to environmental programs, rural development programs to nutrition programs, and energy programs to research programs. Many of the commodity programs are very similar to the 2002 Farm Bill with the exception of a new Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) that will be available starting with the 2009 crop. Environmental programs have been enhanced; particularly the EQIP and CSP programs. Nutrition programs have seen a substantial increase in funding in this Farm Bill. Finally, the Energy title of this Farm Bill has placed a new emphasis on promoting research and education on renewable fuels made from products other than corn such as cellulosic ethanol and biodiesel. The Farm Service Agency and other agencies of the U.S. Department of Agricultural are in the process of developing the rules to implement these sweeping changes in law. As the implementation rules become more clear, the impacts of the changes in law will be more evident. Discussion of the implications of various parts of the bill as well as information to help producers and others sign up for the programs available under the new Farm Bill can be found here.

Additional Resources
Links to other Purdue Extension publications, websites, and other useful sources of additional information.