By Glennis McClure
Many farmers and ranchers make inquiries to Nebraska Extension about prevailing rates paid for various kinds of custom farm services. In addition to the regular biennial custom rates survey, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability has launched a new survey designed to provide market rate information for the Nebraska livestock industry. Producers and operators that perform and provide custom services for others, or that utilize custom services and pay others, are invited to participate in the survey.
Anyone interested in participating in the livestock-related custom rates survey can request a printed copy and return envelope to complete the survey or register to receive the online survey version link at: cap.unl.edu/customrates/livestock. Your area beef systems extension educator or county extension office staff may also assist in obtaining a survey or the online link.
Services covered in the survey include charges for pasture maintenance, fencing and trenching services, livestock processing fees and yardage rates, hauling fees, custom feed preparation, haying services, facility and equipment rental rates, manure pumping, hauling and application charges.