When it comes to crop insurance, think of it like a well-equipped toolbox for risk management. Just as specific tools are used for different farm projects, certain insurance products are better suited for different parts of an operation. For those who rely on forage production, Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) insurance is a versatile and valuable tool to have on hand. Here's a closer look at what PRF insurance is and how it can benefit an operation.

What is PRF Insurance?

Most are familiar with the saying, “Make hay while the sun is shining”—a reminder to seize opportunity while conditions are favorable. But for forage producers, too much sunshine and too little rain can quickly turn opportunity into hardship. Whether an operation involves grazing beef cattle, growing forage for a dairy herd, or producing hay for market, a lack of rainfall can severely impact pasture and forage yields, driving up costs and reducing revenue.

That’s where PRF insurance comes in. This program is designed to protect perennial forages and pastureland from the financial impact of below-average rainfall. Unlike traditional crop insurance for row crops, PRF is area-based. It uses historical and real-time rainfall data gathered for a localized grid—typically about 17 by 17 miles—corresponding to where the insured acres are located.

If rainfall within that grid falls below the coverage level selected by the producer, a claim is triggered automatically. An indemnity payment is issued based on the number of acres covered—no need to report actual hay yields or go through an adjuster. It’s a straightforward, data-driven solution to manage a very real weather risk.

How PRF Coverage Applies to an Operation

Producers interested in PRF should speak with their crop insurance agent to determine how this tool can be integrated into their risk management plan. Together, they can walk through five key steps to tailor coverage to the operation’s needs:

Step 1: Identify Your Grid ID

• PRF uses grid-based rainfall data.
• Each grid is roughly 17 x 17 miles and has a unique Grid ID number.
• An agent can help determine which Grid ID(s) apply based on the location of the acreage.

Step 2: Choose the Acres to Insure

• Producers may choose to insure all or a portion of their haying or grazing acres.
• PRF offers flexibility to customize which parts of the operation are covered.

Step 3: Select a Coverage Level

• Coverage levels range from 70% to 90% of the rainfall index.
• The chosen level should reflect the operation’s risk tolerance and financial goals.

Step 4: Set the Productivity Factor

• Each county has a base dollar value per acre for hay and pasture.
• Producers can select a productivity factor between 60% and 150% of the county base.
• Discussing the value of forage with an agent can help determine the appropriate factor.

Step 5: Choose the Coverage Intervals

• PRF coverage is divided into two-month intervals throughout the year.
• Agents can help review historical rainfall data to identify periods when drought is most likely.
• At least two intervals must be selected, but coverage can span up to six intervals to protect forage year-round.

Don’t Be Left “Too Dry”

In recent years, unpredictable weather — especially prolonged dry spells — has become more common. For producers who depend on forage, the financial strain of a drought season can be significant. PRF insurance offers a proactive way to protect against this risk.

The application deadline for PRF coverage is December 1. Now is the time to connect with a crop insurance agent to discuss coverage options and ensure that pasture and forage acres are protected in the coming year.

For more information, contact one of our experienced agents today or call 888.339.3334 to get started.

Through its Community Investment Grant program, Horizon Farm Credit awarded more than $136,000 in grants to 16 organizations throughout its 100-county footprint this summer. The grants fund initiatives focusing on agriculture innovation, agriculture education, diversity in agriculture, environmental stewardship, and strengthening communities.  

“At Farm Credit, we know that strong communities are the foundation of a thriving agricultural industry,” said Tom Truitt, Horizon Farm Credit Chief Executive Officer. “By supporting these organizations, we are investing not only in agriculture, but also in the people, partnerships, and programs that ensure our communities continue to grow and thrive throughout our footprint.”

This year’s recipients represent a wide range of missions — from farm-to-school programs and workforce training to veteran farmer support and environmental stewardship.  

The recipients are:  

Maryland  

• Asian American Agriculture Society
• Blackwater Rising
• Cecil County Public Schools – Cecil County School of Technology
• Farm to School Frederick
• Taking The Lead, Inc.

Pennsylvania

• Bidwell Training Center
• Groundwork Erie
• John Bartram Association
• Millvale Community Development Corporation
• New Holland Mennonite Church
• PA Veteran Farming Network
• Pennsylvania Beef Foundation
• Penn State Agricultural Safety and Health Program (ASH)
• Penn State Extension 4-H – Wayne County

Virginia

• Eukarya Family Center
• Shenandoah Co. Agricultural Foundation

To learn more about Horizon Farm Credit’s Community Investment Grant Program, visit horizonfc.com/community. 

Interview Recorded August 27, 2025

In a timely and insightful conversation, Peter Meyer of Muddy Boots Ag shares boots-on-the-ground observations from a recent crop tour across the Midwest. His candor cuts through market noise to reveal the reality behind current U.S. corn and soybean conditions, the global demand picture, and the mounting pressure on American farmers. From unexpected disease outbreaks to market “rhetoric fatigue,” Peter lays out the forces shaping the ag economy today—and what might turn the tide tomorrow.

Crop Tour Insights: What’s Really in the Fields?

Meyer reports that while crops looked good from the road, field inspections told a different story. Many corn fields appeared to be maturing too quickly with declining test weights and premature signs of drying out—raising red flags for quality and yield potential.

Southern rust, tar spot, and leaf blight were more prevalent than expected, especially in Illinois and Iowa. Corn ears were still showing a milk line and not filling out, which could lead to disappointing weight during harvest. As Meyer puts it, the crop "ran out of gas."

Demand Drought & Market Malaise

Despite strong corn export sales, the market remains skeptical. Why? Because “rhetoric is cheap,” Meyer says, pointing to a lack of real follow-through—especially from China, the world’s largest soybean buyer.

With no meaningful soybean trade activity from China on the books and no robust domestic biofuels policy in play, the soybean market is stuck. Meyer believes demand—both international and domestic—is the missing link holding prices back.

Soybean Crop: Hope on Hold

Soybean pod counts looked great during crop tour, especially in Iowa. But the August heat and dryness have raised concerns about the crop’s ability to finish strong. Meyer admits he’s “killed more soybean crops in his career than [he] cares to remember,” but remains cautiously hopeful—pending September rainfall.

If moisture doesn’t return, soybean yields may dip from Pro Farmer’s 53 bu/ac estimate down to 52 or even 51.5.

Trade Pause with China: A Critical Bottleneck

Meyer is blunt: we’re in a trade pause with China, and it's weighing heavily on both soybean and corn markets. Without Chinese purchases, even positive domestic sales numbers can’t move the needle much.

Even if China returns to the table, logistics concerns—including low river levels and limited export capacity—may hinder shipment timing and create bottlenecks.

Crop Insurance & 2025 Acreage Outlook

Crop insurance policy changes are adding new wrinkles. An increase in subsidy levels (up to 80% for some area endorsements) means many farmers will be insured at high levels—even if markets tank.

Meyer suggests this could result in fewer acres left fallow than expected in 2025, as insurance buffers financial risk. But with banks tightening their lending criteria, some marginal acres may still be sidelined.

Can the Ag Economy Turn Around?

What could turn the tide?
•    A strong U.S. biofuels policy to stimulate domestic demand.
•    Chinese re-entry into the soybean market.
•    A weather scare in South America to jolt global supply assumptions.
•    Interest rate cuts to ease farm operating costs.

But until then, farmers are in survival mode—trying to plant what loses the least amount of equity. As one farmer put it: “I’m just figuring out what crop will lose me the least money.”

Meyer’s Final Word

Farming is cyclical. While we’re deep in the trough now, Peter Meyer believes recovery is coming—eventually. A shakeout in land prices, fertilizer costs, and possibly even farm consolidation is part of the cycle.

Until then, resilience, realistic expectations, and watching the demand side closely will be critical.

Understanding Agribusiness Loans

An agribusiness loan is designed specifically to meet the financial demands of large-scale agricultural operations. That might mean covering seasonal expenses like feed or seed, financing a new specialized piece of equipment, buying more land, expanding your operation, or acquiring another business. These loans come in a range of forms, such as term loans for big investments or operating loans for short-term cash flow needs.

In short: if you’re looking for financial assistance to help your agricultural business run smoother or grow stronger, it likely falls under the umbrella of agribusiness lending.

Why Choose Farm Credit for Your Agribusiness Loans

We’re not a traditional bank - and we don’t try to be. Horizon Farm Credit is a cooperative, which means we’re owned by the farmers, agribusinesses and rural residents we serve. Our borrowers range from large row crop farmers and dairy operators to greenhouse managers, feed mills, food processors and wood manufacturers. Unlike generic banks, we offer loans that are flexible, realistic, and backed by people who genuinely understand the cycles of agriculture.

Horizon Farm Credit operates in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia, and our team has deep ties to local ag communities. We know the region, and we know the work that goes into keeping it productive.

The Financial Benefits of Agribusiness Loans from Farm Credit

Here’s how our financing approach benefits your business:

• Rates that make sense: Agribusiness loan interest rates vary by loan type and market conditions, but we work to keep them competitive.
• No cookie-cutter terms: Whether you need a seasonal operating loan or a long-term investment loan, we tailor your repayment plan around your operation’s cash flow and seasonal income.  
• People who get agriculture: Your lender knows the difference between a silage harvester and a combine - and why that matters when you’re applying for financing.
• Access to a network of providers: No matter what your agribusiness needs to grow, we work with partners across the system to offer what you need including cash management and treasury services, SWAPs, and leases.

How Agribusiness Loans Can Boost Your Farm's Growth

Agriculture is always evolving. So are your needs. Agribusiness loans from Farm Credit can help you:

• Expand or diversify your business  
• Upgrade outdated equipment or infrastructure
• Improve efficiency with new equipment or technology
• Manage seasonal inventory needs

Growth doesn’t have to mean just scaling revenue. Sometimes, it means becoming more resilient, more efficient, or better prepared for what’s next. We’ll help you get there.

Comparing Farm Credit's Agribusiness Loans with Other Financial Institutions

Traditional banks may offer agricultural loans, but they often lack deep knowledge of the industry and how to help producers when markets fluctuate. Our team understands seasonal cash flow, commodity markets, and the kind of risk farm related businesses take on every day. We’re also faster to respond, and our decision-makers are local ag experts, not corporate managers.  

Frequently Asked Questions about Agribusiness Loans

1. What’s the interest rate for an agribusiness loan?
   1. It depends on the loan type, term, and your financial profile. We’ll work with you to find the most cost-effective structure. We can offer variable rates based on Prime or SOFR, long-term fixed rates without prepayment penalties, and access to SWAPs.
2. Do I need a business plan?
   1. You don’t always need a business plan, but they can be very helpful for approval when requesting financing for an expansion or new business venture.  Financial projections are also valuable in assessing your lending request.
3. What’s the difference between an operating loan and a term loan?
   1. Operating loans cover short-term expenses like supplies, labor, or cash flow gaps. Term loans fund bigger, longer-term investments like equipment or land.

How to Apply for an Agribusiness Loan with Farm Credit

Thinking of applying for an agribusiness loan with Farm Credit? Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Connect with us – Contact us online or give us a call at 888.339.3334.
2. Talk through your goals with us – We’ll help match you with the right loan product.
3. Submit your application – We’ll walk you through what prerequisites and paperwork you’ll need. It can be helpful to gather a few key documents like: the last three years of tax returns, accountant prepared financial statements for each business entity, a year-to-date income statement and balance sheet for each business entity, and any business plans or projections for new ventures or expansion projects.  
4. We’ll review and communicate a decision – Our decisions are made locally and quickly.
5. Get funded – Once approved, funds are disbursed to get your project moving.

Success Stories of Farm Credit's Agribusiness Loans

We’ve had the privilege of working with thousands of producers across the Mid-Atlantic increase their vertical integration by building feed mills, developing their own trucking fleet and brokerages, acquiring businesses to further process their ag product, and so much more.  

If you’re thinking about an agribusiness loan - whether it’s for this season or next year’s expansion - contact us today. We’re here to help you figure out the best next step for your farm or business, no pressure, no push. Because at Farm Credit, we don’t just do loans, we build long-term relationships rooted in agriculture. 

Atop a hill in Frederick County, Maryland, envision a place where bursts of color sway in the wind, filling the landscape with vibrant hues of tulips, dahlias, ranunculus, and other flowering plants. This emerging flower farm is more than just rows of blooms — it’s a place where community comes together, offering locally grown, fresh-cut flowers to consumers who appreciate the beauty and sustainability of buying close to home.  

Katie and Michael Stevens are the owners of Daysland Vista Blooms, a flower farm operation that evolved from Katie’s family dairy farm located in Walkersville, Maryland. Obtaining a degree in dairy science from Virginia Tech, Katie has extensive experience in animal husbandry and agricultural business development.  

“My grandmother was always planting and tending to flowers. I enjoyed watching the way she cared for them,” recalls Katie. “Growing up on a dairy farm, I was taught how to work hard. The work is different but shares the same values.”  

Since establishing the flower farm in 2017 and marketing their flowers in 2022, Katie and Michael’s business has sprouted. Their hard work has extended opportunities for larger growth, earning them recognition in Farm Credit’s 2024 Farmers on the Rise awards. As a recipient of the award, they received $10,000 to purchase and install irrigation lines for their high-tunnel and purchase a flower cooler.  

Beyond the flowers, Katie found another opportunity to remain close to agriculture after her family retired from dairy farming. Serving in a full-time position as the director for the Frederick County Office of Agriculture, Katie knows first-hand about the challenges that come as a business owner within the ag industry. She utilizes these skills and experience to assist other farms in the community.  

Katie has always been able to share that support with other agriculturalists, however, she also found herself in need of support when launching her business. Leaning on skills acquired from horticulture classes in high school, she felt the need to expand her knowledge by attending the Gardener’s Workshop, an online flower farmer school based in Newport News, Virginia.  

“I came away with new skills and tools to incorporate when growing plants,” shares Katie. “I appreciate being able to attend events and classes with like-minded participants.” Katie and Michael have also found that by working with their Farm Credit Ag Relationship Manager, Kelli Wilson, they have been able to gain further knowledge of financial and business methods with her guidance.  

“Farm Credit understands the needs and demands of beginning farmers,” explains Katie. “We’ve been growing rapidly, and Kelli has been able to assist with plans along the way.”  

Farm Credit has a reputation for its support of agriculture and ag businesses. Kelli notes, “Our role is to share the journey alongside the families and businesses we serve. We see so many generational transitions among farmers and while the business plan may change, the incorporation of family remains steadfast. Katie and Michael are planting seeds within their children to generate growth and longevity in the business for years to come. They shared a clear goal in the beginning of this process, and Farm Credit was able to support their goal by offering planning and financial advice, and connect them with experienced mentors.”  

The couple have three young daughters — a 6-year-old and 4-yearold twins — who are very much involved with the farm. “We want the kids to experience it all,” comments Michael. “We are investing in their future in more ways than one and it benefits them to see it first-hand.”  

Their oldest daughter helps with arrangements and wants to set up a flower stand, just like her mom. All three girls help with toting buckets, watering flowers and even the occasional flower trimming.  

The same education shared with their children is also beneficial for consumers. Teaching customers about their environmentally friendly business allows them to take an active role in their community.  

“Since we still have cattle at the farm, we use their manure as compost and pack it into the flowerbeds. This cuts back on tilling the soil and allows the plants to source nutrients from the compost instead of disturbing the ground,” explains Katie.  

The seeds are grown in soil blocks — eliminating plastic waste — bouquets are wrapped in paper instead of plastic, they strive to plant many perennials to source from year after year, and they even use recycled Mason jars from a local distillery for vases.  

“You need to think outside of the box”, Michael shares. “It’s a process that is always evolving.”  

The couple is truly compatible in many ways, oftentimes, Katie’s dream is put into action by Michael. “They work well together,” Kelli says with a smile. “Their end goal is the same and they have learned to combine their talents to make it work for them.” She is excited about the future and the journey it holds for the Stevens family.  

For more information and to explore the blooms, follow Daysland Vista Blooms on Facebook and Instagram. 

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In the evolving world of agriculture, innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. Fresh Source Farms — located in Havre de Grace, Maryland — an operation dedicated to producing high-quality microgreens, is an example of how modern farming techniques can reshape the food industry.  

Owner/operators, Andy and Theresa Mussaw, are committed to progressive strategies, earning them the 2024 Farmers on the Rise award, presented by Horizon Farm Credit.  

“The recognition not only highlights their hard work but also provides crucial funding for a new potting machine,” shares Maureen O’Shea Fitzgerald, Farm Credit Ag Business Consultant. “This is an investment that will enhance their production capabilities and further their mission of delivering fresh, nutrient-packed microgreens to consumers.”  

Andy’s desire to begin as a first-generation farmer stemmed from his interest in open spaces and growing new life.  

“I worked in technology, in a cubicle for years, before I needed a change in scenery,” says Andy. “I like working with my hands and applying learned skills to generate new ways of efficiency. I also enjoy working alongside people in our community. Teaching these practices is fulfilling.”  

Microgreens have become increasingly popular due to their intense flavor, concentrated nutritional value, and versatility in culinary relevance. Unlike full-grown crops, microgreens are harvested days after sprouting, often containing more condensed vitamins and antioxidants than their mature counterparts.  

Not to be confused with sprouts, microgreens are grown in soil and offer less room for environmental hazards. They serve as an addition to salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and food-lover dishes, putting them on the radar for health-conscious consumers and culinary patrons.  

By growing their yield in a controlled environment, they ensure optimal conditions that result in consistent quality, year-round production, and minimal environmental interaction. This practice allows for a more sustainable product, and as the business thrives, there’s more need for simplifying growing practices.  

The funding they received through the Farmers on the Rise award was used to purchase a Stilt Pro potting machine, a game-changing addition to their operation. This equipment streamlines their planting process, allowing them to elevate efficiency, reduce labor and costs, and scale their production to meet the rising demand for microgreens.  

“They’ve been growing their operation at a rapid rate,” explains Maureen. “My role has been to assist in the planning process and provide assistance in ways they can channel the growth.”  

Andy notes, “Working with Farm Credit has been a great experience, and they are a vital part of our success. They understand the needs of a growing business and work as a partner, invested in our future.”  

The team at Fresh Source Farms works together to offset the workload for Andy, so he can focus on generating new ideas and expanding the microgreens community.  

One of the key aspects of their success is the connection to the local community. By supplying fresh microgreens to restaurants, grocery stores, and direct-to-consumer markets, they are playing an essential role in the local food movement. The farm’s transparency in their growing process and dedication to freshness have made them a reliable source of premium microgreens in the region.  

“Andy’s proven to be an innovator in this field, his attentiveness to detail and knowledge of the process makes him an expert for others to follow,” shares Tony Hatzigeorgalis, Fresh Source Farms Chief Operations Officer. “There are new and exciting products on the horizon, and we’re always moving forward, starting within the community.”

Andy offers educational resources and has even developed his own food-safe Premium Soil Press. As a leader in the microgreens industry, he provides coaching to other growers; oversees social media mentoring; developed FarmFlow, an innovative online software system used to manage every aspect of a microgreens business; and is a founder of Urban Ag Academy, an online microgreens learning platform and community.  

Their focus remains on refining their growing techniques, expanding their reach, and continuing to educate consumers about the benefits of microgreens. By embracing technology and sustainable practices, Fresh Source Farms is not only meeting the demands of today’s market, but also paving the way for the future of farming. As Fresh Source Farms continues to innovate and expand, they remain a shining example of how farmers can drive change and make a lasting impact on the industry.  

For more information about Fresh Source Farms and their commitment to fresh, sustainable microgreens, visit freshsourcefarms.com. 

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In the heart of Pennsylvania’s Allegheny Mountains, where crisp air meets winding roads, one veteran has turned a simple cup of tea into a life-changing mission.  

Living in Blue Knob, a region known for its iconic ski slopes and natural beauty, Rhonda Smith and her family built a lifestyle rooted in wellness and resilience. Focused on offering her community fresh and healthy food, natural products, and artisanal teas, Rhonda ensures every item she produces is made with quality ingredients and care.  

Rhonda grew up on her grandparents’ farm, two hours from where she now lives. Her summers were spent planting, weeding, and preserving. A year after high school, Rhonda joined the U.S. Air Force to travel and earn a college degree.  

She served ten years, eight of active duty, with the last three stationed in Germany. At the time, Rhonda was a single parent to her young son, and the move was a big transition.  

Rhonda and her son were welcomed to the country by a German family that hosted new military personnel. They lived on a farm offering all the familiarities that Rhonda was used to at home. Upon their arrival, Rhonda and her son got sick. Their German landlord brewed a special tea made of local herbs and flowers. As Rhonda spent time living with the family, she learned about the healing power of tea and food.  

“She would send us home with baskets of produce, eggs, and herbs — among other things — and I thought to myself, ‘I want to be like her when I grow up,’” Rhonda recalls with a smile.  

While serving in Germany, Rhonda worked in trauma as an operating room nurse. She received her bachelor’s degrees in psychology and sociology, with hopes to work in the U.S. as a nurse when she returned home.  

However, when she got out of the military, transitioning to civilian life was challenging. Her college education didn’t transfer, making it hard to resume her nursing career. Seeking a new path, she earned an MBA and began exploring ways to help female veterans.  

In the meantime, Rhonda got married, had a daughter, and planted roots in the mountains. One day, while driving through town, Rhonda and her daughter passed a closed tea shop. The shop had been a family favorite, and her daughter mentioned missing it. This moment was a catalyst for Rhonda, and she began blending teas at home. Within a month, she launched Skirted Soldier.  

Over the past seven years, her business has grown significantly. As demand grew, her dedication and mission-driven approach caught national attention, leading to a feature on The Today Show. Now, Skirted Soldier has over 200 wholesale accounts across the country, a testament to Rhonda’s passion and perseverance.  

While Rhonda’s passion is providing quality tea, her commitment to her cause doesn’t end there. Rhonda donates 10% of every purchase to benefit female veterans and spends her free time serving on the Advisory Board for the Pennsylvania Veteran Farming Network.  

Her family’s love of gardening eventually evolved into another venture, Blue Knob Farm, where they offer produce, eggs, berries, and value added agricultural products. Through partnerships with local farmers, they create freeze-dried food kits for farmers markets, with some kits donated to shelters and food banks.  

Yet, Rhonda’s journey took an even more profound turn, shaping her commitment to health and wellness. A few years ago, Rhonda’s daughter went through a challenging health journey. Determined to find the root cause, Rhonda took her daughter to a doctor of natural medicine. Within two weeks, her daughter showed significant improvement. This experience prompted the family to re-evaluate their lifestyle, from food choices to environmental toxins.  

This led the family to create chemical-free body and home care products. From dry shampoo to bug spray and laundry detergent, Blue Knob Farm now provides safe, natural products for their community. Her daughter is actively involved in the business and has seen the benefits of the products firsthand. The journey from nursing to realizing the power of herbal and natural remedies has inspired Rhonda to pursue a degree in natural medicine.  

“Our ‘why’ is making sure our community is eating clean, healthy food and using safe products,” Rhonda shares. “We want them to know what they’re putting in and on their body.”  

In 2024, Rhonda was honored as a Farmers on the Rise Award recipient for her outstanding efforts and commitment to excellence. The award funds are allowing Rhonda’s dreams of purchasing a commercial freeze dry come to life, further enhancing her ability to positively impact her community.  

For more information about Skirted Solider, visit skirtedsoldier.com, and visit Blue Knob Farm on Facebook.

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Horizon Farm Credit recently awarded $150,000 in grant funding to 15 beginning farmers as part of its 2025 JumpStart Grant Program, a cornerstone of the Association’s commitment to supporting the next generation of farmers. Each recipient received a $10,000 grant to establish and grow their farm operations.

JumpStart is an annual grant program for agriculturalists with two years or less of farming experience, or those who plan to begin farming within the next two years. Grant funds can be used in various ways to support farm businesses. The 2025 JumpStart Grant recipients plan to use their funding to invest in essential startup infrastructure, equipment, and systems that improve efficiency, support diversification, and lay the groundwork for long-term farm sustainability. Funds can also be utilized for services including legal fees, business planning, or other startup costs.

“Getting started in agriculture requires planning, persistence, and access to capital. Farm Credit is committed to supporting beginning farmers taking bold steps toward building their agricultural dreams,” said Tom Truitt, Chief Executive Officer of Horizon Farm Credit. “Through the JumpStart Grant Program, we’re proud to walk alongside these farmers at a pivotal point in their operations. Their success is vital to the future of agriculture, and this grant program allows them to access resources that aid in the success of their operations.”

The following applicants received grants valued at $10,000 to establish and grow their farms:

• Josephine Drummonds of Edinburg, Virginia
• Leslie Evans of Baltimore, Maryland
• James and Danielle Hansen of Machipongo, Virginia
• Nick Healy of Hampstead, Maryland
• Nickolas and Laura Kefauver of Myersville, Maryland
• Lee and Amanda Kozokas of Mehoopany, Pennsylvania
• Ryan Mahony of Westmoreland City, Pennsylvania
• Kelly Mercier of Nicholson, Pennsylvania
• Will and Megan Ozman of Trappe, Maryland
• Henry Norley and Kristin Shirk of Westfield, Pennsylvania
• Brandon Skinner of Hartly, Delaware
• Michael Trusik of Freeport, Pennsylvania
• Ellis Turner of Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania
• Maurice Wofford of Meadville, Pennsylvania
• David Yeckley and Breanne Radin Yeckley of Mainesburg, Pennsylvania

Applications for the 2025 JumpStart grant program were carefully evaluated by a diverse panel of agriculture professionals and industry experts. Those named above were selected on the merits of their submissions, which included an application, business plan, and completion of the Ag Biz Basics educational course. Learn more about this program by visiting horizonfc.com/jumpstart.

Interview recorded May 27, 2025

In an era defined by uncertainty, AgResource Company founder Dan Basse sits down with Ag journalist Tyne Morgan to offer a candid look into the state of agriculture. With global trade disputes, political shifts, and weather challenges casting long shadows, Basse stresses that the ag economy’s fortunes are increasingly dependent on location and sector.

While livestock and protein sectors are thriving — buoyed by strong disposable incomes and consumer demand — the grain markets face persistent headwinds. Trade negotiations, particularly with China and Southeast Asia, remain pivotal. Basse warns that delays could impact farmers' ability to capture critical export opportunities, especially for corn, soybeans, and wheat.

Beyond trade, renewable fuels offer a glimmer of domestic demand growth, but policy uncertainty stalls vital investments in ethanol and biodiesel infrastructure. Meanwhile, the cattle and dairy sectors continue to see robust growth, supported by consumer trends and evolving perceptions around protein and dairy health benefits.

However, Basse remains cautious about the near-term outlook for row crops, citing under-marketed new crop sales and the looming threat of lower commodity prices if weather remains favorable and trade resolutions lag.

In short, agriculture’s future is poised on a fence — livestock on one side, grain on the other — and success may well depend on which side of the fence you stand.

Are You Retirement Ready?

Whether retirement is just around the corner or still years away, planning for it isn’t something to leave to chance. Retirement doesn’t begin on a magical date—it’s a process that requires intention well before the milestone and continued planning once you're living it.

If you’re a farmer, agribusiness owner, or self-employed individual, understanding how Social Security works and how your income affects your retirement benefits is essential. Below are seven key areas to consider when preparing for retirement, especially when it comes to understanding Social Security benefits. 

1. Work Credits

No matter your age, if you’re earning income (typically from wages or self-employment), you’re accumulating Social Security credits—also called work credits. These credits are based on your annual earnings, and the threshold adjusts each year.

To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you must earn at least 40 work credits in your lifetime, with a maximum of four credits earned per year. In 2025, earning four credits requires $7,240 of earned income, which can be earned throughout the year, or you might earn enough for all four credits in less time in the year.  

While earning more than 40 credits doesn’t increase your benefit, those 40 credits are your “ticket to the game.” Without them, you cannot collect retirement benefits.

2. Wage Cap

Each year, Social Security sets a limit on the amount of income subject to the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) tax, commonly known as the wage cap or taxable maximum.

For example, in 2025, earnings up to $176,100 are taxed for Social Security. Any income above that, is not. The current OASDI tax rate is 6.2% for employees and 12.4% for self-employed individuals. That means a self-employed farmer or agribusiness owner earning at or above the wage cap would contribute just over $10,900 annually to the program.

Fun fact: when Social Security began in 1937, the wage cap was just $3,000. It’s adjusted annually to reflect the national wage index.

3. Social Security Bend Points

Social Security calculates benefits based on your Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME), which averages your highest 35 years of earnings (commonly called your “high 35”), adjusted for inflation.

To determine your benefit at Full Retirement Age (FRA)—currently 67 for those born in 1960 or later—the Social Security Administration uses a formula that includes “bend points.” These thresholds determine how much of your AIME contributes to your Primary Insurance Amount (PIA)—the monthly benefit you’re eligible for at FRA.

For example, in 2025, the bend points are:

• 90% of the first $1,226 of AIME
• 32% of the next $6,165
• 15% of any amount above that (up to the wage cap)

The takeaway: working longer, especially in higher-earning years, can replace lower-earning years in your 35-year average and boost your future benefits. Delaying your benefit beyond FRA can increase it by up to 8% per year until age 70.

4. Earnings Limit

Planning to work while collecting Social Security? Be aware of the earnings limit, which may reduce your benefit if you collect before your FRA.

In 2025, those under FRA who have chosen to collect Social Security benefits can earn up to $23,400 without penalty. Earnings beyond that reduce your Social Secuity benefits by $1 for every $2 earned.

If you reach your FRA within the year, the limit increases (e.g., $62,160 in 2025), and the reduction is $1 for every $3 over the limit. After you reach FRA, there is no earnings limit, and you can earn any amount without reducing your benefits.

5. Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)

Social Security benefits are adjusted annually to keep pace with inflation, using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). The COLA for 2025 was 2.5%.

Delaying retirement not only increases your base benefit—it also compounds the effect of COLA increases, resulting in larger dollar adjustments over time.

6. Taxation of Benefits

Since 1984, Social Security benefits have been taxable based on your income. The IRS uses Provisional Income to determine whether (and how much) of your benefits are taxable.

Provisional Income = Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) + Tax-free interest + 50% of your Social Security benefits

For single filers, benefits become taxable if Provisional Income exceeds $25,000. For joint filers, the threshold is $32,000. Up to 85% of your benefits may be taxable.

This formula hasn’t been adjusted for inflation since its inception, so more recipients are being taxed today than ever before.

7. IRMAA: Medicare’s Income Surcharge

The Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) is a surcharge added to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums if your income exceeds certain thresholds. For 2025, those are:

• $106,000 (single filer)
• $212,000 (married filing jointly)

IRMAA is based on your income from two years prior—so your 2023 tax return determines your 2025 Medicare premiums.

And be warned: IRMAA thresholds use a “cliff” model. If your income is even $1 over the threshold, you move into the next bracket—and both spouses will pay the higher premium if enrolled in Medicare.

Planning Ahead

Whether you’re a full-time farmer, agribusiness operator, or planning to retire from off-farm income, understanding how Social Security works is a vital part of your retirement strategy. From knowing your earning thresholds to planning when to claim benefits, every decision can impact your long-term financial security.

Horizon Farm Credit understands the importance of future planning—from growing your operation today to securing your tomorrow. Our team is here to help you navigate your financial journey at every stage, including retirement. Want to talk about what retirement planning looks like for your operation or how our financial services can support your long-term goals? Contact us today.