The 2009 crop profit projections are better than expected and are favorable when viewed in a longer historical context.

With few exceptions, all crops show positive returns to labor and management in all regions of North Dakota where the projections were made.

There was a large difference in profit by farm type.

The center’s new director brings research and Extension Service experience to her position.

However, producers are worried about whether average yields in 2013 will materialize. Unlike last spring, soil moisture is depleted.

Cover crops, pulse crop breeding and weed issues will be among the topics discussed.

A positive is that projected yields for most crops have increased.

Crop prices are down from the highs of 2007 and 2008 but are still strong when viewed in a longer historical perspective.

The varieties include chickpeas, field peas and soybeans.

Common beans feed about 375 million people in Latin America and 200 million people in sub-Saharan Africa.