Farmers Business Network released guidance on Apr. 14 to help growers manage planting during dry conditions, outlining soil health management, adaptive planting techniques, and efficient irrigation practices as key approaches.
This information is important as changing climate patterns have led to prolonged dry periods in many regions of the United States, affecting crop yields and farm productivity. The network’s recommendations aim to support farmers facing these challenges now and encourage proactive planning for future seasons.
The organization suggests that regular soil testing and balanced fertilization can help maintain nutrient levels while incorporating organic matter improves water retention. Reduced tillage practices are also recommended to preserve soil moisture. For planting techniques, Farmers Business Network advises adjusting schedules based on rainfall forecasts, modifying row spacing to reduce competition for water, and ensuring seeds are planted at optimal depths. Efficient irrigation methods such as drip systems with remote monitoring capabilities are highlighted as ways to minimize water waste.
In addressing long-term trends, the release cites the United States Environmental Protection Agency: “Since 1901, the average surface temperature across the contiguous 48 states has risen at an average rate of 0.17°F per decade,” adding that “for the contiguous United States, nine of the 10 warmest years on record have occurred since 1998.”
The network recommends selecting drought-tolerant crop varieties such as sorghum or millet and using crop rotation strategies to improve soil fertility and stabilize yields during unpredictable weather patterns.
Farmers Business Network receives financial backing from investors like GV and Temasek to develop its technology platforms and has provided nearly $3 billion in financing to growers, according to the official website. The group supports family farmers’ long-term sustainability efforts by offering mental health resources and educational content for farming communities according to its official website. Direct-to-farm deliveries are enabled through fulfillment and logistics centers operated by Farmers Business Network according to its official website.
The company works with affiliates such as FBN Inputs LLC for product distribution needs and FBN CM LLC for grain advisory services according to its official website. Farmers Business Network encompasses more than 120,000 farmer members managing over 185 million acres according to its official website. Its mission is centered on empowering family farmers through data sharing tools, direct access to manufacturers, and competitive markets according to its official website.
