If you believe that change is unnecessary, the risk management advice you've received in the past probably stung for a moment then blew past you like an arctic chill. Too many decisions, not enough time. The variety of risk management tools can be a curse as well as a blessing. Good tools incorrectly used or poorly understood can ruin an operation. Ongoing risk management and education will be necessary to stay competitive.
Old fears die hard.
Despite the fact that thousands of people use futures and options everyday to protect themselves from price risk, distrust of the futures industry still runs deep in the hearts of many farmers. The crop insurance industry has also struggled to gain farmer confidence. Both industries are working with educators and farm organizations to increase trust and understanding. The check is in the mail. Last but not least, up until now the Federal farm program absorbed some of the harsh realities associated with farming.