What's Happening?
The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has initiated the 2026 Kansas Custom Rates Survey to gather data on the rates paid for various agricultural custom services. This survey, conducted in collaboration with the Kansas State University Land Use Survey Office,
will remain open until March 31, 2026. It aims to collect information on charges for services such as custom harvesting, land work, haying, feed preparation, and machinery rental. The survey is voluntary, anonymous, and confidential, and is designed to help farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses access competitive pricing information for agricultural services.
Why It's Important?
The survey is a critical tool for the agricultural community in Kansas, providing valuable insights into the cost structures of custom services. This information can help farmers and agribusinesses make informed decisions about service contracts and pricing strategies, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and competitiveness of their operations. By understanding market rates, stakeholders can better negotiate contracts and manage their operational costs, which is essential for maintaining profitability in the agricultural sector.
What's Next?
Following the survey's completion, the KDA and Kansas State University will analyze the data to publish a comprehensive report. This report will serve as a resource for the agricultural community, offering benchmarks for service pricing. The findings may also influence policy decisions and support initiatives aimed at enhancing the economic viability of Kansas's agricultural sector. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the survey to ensure a broad representation of data.
