Young farmers look at Chicago markets

WEST DES MOINES – A group of 42 young Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) members recently stepped out of the fields to visit the urban hub of the futures trade in Chicago for the annual IFBF Young Farmer Program Marketers’ trip.

On July 22, participants, ranging in age from 18-35, witnessed the opening of the crop market, gained insights on the ag-options trade and financial futures trade, and discussed current market conditions and global market factors with Steve Freed of ADM Investor Services Inc.  The young farmers then departed for Fair Oaks Farms in Fair Oaks, Ind., for an inside look at the innovative way Fair Oaks is sharing the story of agriculture with consumers.

“This trip exposes these young farmers to new perspectives, showing them the national significance of decisions they make on their farms back home,” said Ed Kordick, IFBF commodity services manager.  “And the Fair Oaks visit was an excellent opportunity for them to learn about sharing the story of agriculture with consumers who may be multiple generations removed from farm life.”