One resource for good information on agricultural markets is the quarterly Knowledge Center Market Snapshots, which are reports by Northwest Farm Credit Services. As one might expect, the latest batch of snapshots indicates that demand is softening, or at best, level, for nearly all agricultural commodities: beef, wheat, dairy, fruits, forest products, wine, hay and potatoes. Things are looking particularly dour, however, for the nursery industry. Here’s what the latest Market Snapshot (dated 31.Dec) had to say:

“Although the recession impacts virtually every business, the nursery industry is experiencing its worst economic downturn since the 1980s. Bookings for 2009 delivery are down 20-30 percent from last year for many producers. In addition to economic challenges, many nursery producers experienced severe damage to greenhouses from snow and ice storms in December.”

The rest of the report adds more information, not much of it positive, but it also shares some tips for getting along in this rough economy. It’s behind a registration wall, but signup is free. Just go to www.farm-credit.com/resources and look for the link on the left to register. After you get your login, click on Knowledge Center and then Market Snapshots.