Q.C. Farm Equipment Show previews economic outlook

ROCK ISLAND, Illinois —

Corn prices are reaching their highest levels in the last two years. That could be good news for companies that depend on the farm economy. Through the January chill, there's optimism down on the farm.
Hundreds of farmers and dealers are packing the Quad Cities Farm Equipment Show. The latest innovations are on display -- from big ticket merchandise to solutions that will help farmers grow better crops.
"It's just kind of seeing all the new things and new technologies," said Megan Schmidt, Trenton, Missouri. "How we can incorporate it on our farms."
The show continues at the QCCA Expo Center in Rock Island. It's open on Monday from 9-5 and Tuesday from 9-3. Admission and parking are free.
The early 2010 harvest brought its own challenges. Corn amounts were typically down. Weather played a different role in that growing season.
"We had so much moisture last year with the rain," said Brad Peters, Clinton. "A lot of the fields just got too wet."
Despite lower production last year, Iowa and Illinois remain the top two corn producing states. And with grain prices higher, farmers seem to be willing to spend more money this year.
With more than 200 exhibits at the show, there's a positive vibe between ag-related businesses and farmers.
"The price of corn has really helped out," said Russ Morman, a sales representative at Ag Leader Technology. "Guys are really upbeat about everything."
At the same time, the cost of farming also continues to rise. The prices of fuel, seeds and fertilizer have all climbed.
"I would think sales are still going to be strong for 2011," Peters said. "With the high grain prices, equipment is going to be selling yet."
That's good news for businesses depending on the ag economy. In some cases, it's spending money to save money.
"We have the ability to work with our customers, and get them into an operation where they're actually saving money," said Mackenzie Mooberry, a sales representative for Orthman Manufacturing.
Still a ways before the snow melts, ground thaws and spring planting begins, there's optimism for spring planting.
"I think you've always have to be positive," said Schmidt. "Farming is a gamble. You've got to have a smile on your face."
This year, perhaps, a smile for both buyers and sellers.

(source: http://www.wqad.com/news/wqad-farm-equipment-show-011611,0,7196306.story)