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The new year is upon us and what does this mean for agriculture in our region? Now is the time to think
about what changes you should make in your operation for the coming year. This may mean changing
crops, getting new equipment, planting more or cutting back. Whatever do not wait to the last minute. Take the time as the year comes to an end to make those plans and evaluate them to see how they fit into the short, medium and long range. Consolidation is continuing in the region and will continue as more growers decide to get out of the business. Is this good for the industry? Nursery production is the strong element in the area, and this continues to expand. However, the number of wholesale produce operations continue to decrease. This does not necessarily mean there are less vegetables grown, but the operations that are left get larger. This is the same trend as the supermarket consolidation. Both trends may have a negative impact on small to medium size growers with less competition as large retailers and growers become price setters which may be a determent to small and medium size growers. New Jersey has not been a price setter, but price taker for several years. This is not going to change. As you make plans be sure to take the marketplace as the first consideration as to the future.