USDA Budget Ends Direct Payments

Apr 16, 2013

USDA to expect 5.9% Decrease in Upcoming 2014 Fiscal Year

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is to expect a 5.9% decrease in its budget for the upcoming 2014 fiscal year. The White House plans to eliminate direct payments, cut crop insurance subsides and better target conservation funding. The Obama administration says that with crop and livestock production at all-time highs and that income support payments based on levels of production can no longer be justified. The crafting of the new Farm Bill is expected to begin this month in collaboration with the House and Senate and Agriculture committees. Currently, the bulk of the USDA budget is allocated for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps which are pegged to cost $80 billion in the 2014 budget year.

Video: Winter Service Inspections for John Deere Equipment - The FarmCast Ep64

The FarmCast, host Troy Randall speaks with Doug Luedke, Vice President of Service, and Davin Peterson, Executive Vice President of Aftermarket at 21st Century Equipment, to discuss the importance of proactive service and how it helps farmers reduce downtime during their busiest seasons. The conversation focuses on the Winter Service Inspection Program, a comprehensive approach designed to keep equipment running at peak performance and limit costly in-season breakdowns through preventative maintenance and expert technician support.

Doug and Devin explain how 21st Century Equipment’s service teams have evolved to meet the needs of today’s connected machines. With more technology and data integrated into modern equipment, technicians now play a vital role in both mechanical repairs and precision ag support. Through advanced diagnostics, machine monitoring, and John Deere’s Expert Alerts, they can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems—saving customers valuable time, money, and frustration.

Throughout the discussion, the team shares real-world success stories demonstrating how proactive inspections and customer-focused service help maximize uptime and efficiency for every operation. Whether it’s a large tractor, combine, or small mower, the goal remains the same: to provide trusted, reliable support that helps farmers and landowners stay productive and confident in their equipment year-round.