UI Extension seeks participants for custom rates survey

University of Idaho news release

MOSCOW, Idaho - University of Idaho Extension agricultural economist Brett Wilder is seeking farmers to participate in a survey to help him update the Idaho Custom Rates Guide, which summarizes rates farmers pay for custom work.

Payment rates in the guide will be updated based on survey responses from custom operators, farmers who performed custom work and farmers who have hired custom work.

Farmers use the data to determine if what they are paying or charging for custom work is in line with local rates.

The survey includes 10 slots for respondents to list the custom operations they use. In addition to information on pricing, respondents must also specify the county in which they operate and whether or not they farm with irrigation.

"This information has been really commonly requested by industry," Wilder said.

The previous survey was conducted in 2019. Wilder attempted to update the survey in 2023 but didn't receive enough responses. His goal for the 2025 survey is to receive responses from 5 to 10 producers within every Idaho county.

Those who complete the survey may elect to be entered into a raffle for two $50 Amazon gift cards.

Surveys should be returned by Feb. 28.

Participants who wish to receive a copy of the finished report should list their email address following the survey's final question. For more information, contact Wilder at (208) 885-0263 or [email protected].