Agricultural Business

Agricultural business, or Agribusiness, encompasses the broad range of activities and services that support the production, processing, and distribution of agricultural products. From family farms and ranches to equipment suppliers, food processors, and distributors, agribusiness plays a vital role in the economy and food system. In Mesa Conservation District, agribusiness is deeply tied to the land and water resources that support crop and livestock production. Sustainable agribusiness practices help ensure the long-term health of our natural resources while supporting local livelihoods and food security. This page is for informational and educational purposes only. Please reach out to a financial advisor for more information.


Aerial photo of a field and a tractor and truck processing crops.
  • This tax credit is meant to encourage the practice of qualified stewardship practices on a farm or ranch, including any practice that:

    • increases soil health,

    • improves water efficiency, or

    • creates more diverse and beneficial ecosystems while maintaining the productivity of the farm or ranch.

    This tax credit was created through HB24-1249. CDA and Department of Revenue (DOR) will manage the tax credit program. 

  • Colorado State University Extension annually conducts a survey of custom rates charged for various crop and livestock operations and lease arrangements in Colorado. Click the link below to view the survey:

    https://abm.extension.colostate.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/61/2025/04/2024-CustomRates-Final.pdf

  • This ABM Decision Tool is designed for agricultural producers to estimate the costs, returns, and breakeven prices for five crops and three livestock enterprises. Additionally, the numbers from each budget are combined to project a total farm/ranch cash flow statement. To view a copy of the sheet, click the link below:

    https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1pkLw_pZFhormJeVx_Dmf_ljDAq4VI2fN/copy

Interested in learning more about available financial resources such as grants or loans? Click the button to learn more.

Agricultural Business Resources

Commodity Market Resources

Cattle and Beef Market Outlook

Colorado Direct Hay Report

Crop Enterprise Budget Tool: Alfalfa (Furrow)

Crop Enterprise Budget Tool: Grass Hay

Daily Grain Bids

Natl. Monthly Grass Fed Beef Reports

Natl. Retail Report: Specialty Crop

Outlook: Ag Markets and General Economy

Weekly Cattle Auction Summary

Photo shows a field of short grass with a brown spotted cow grazing and green mountains in the background.

What to pay for a cow? - CSU Decision Tool


Business Resources

Business Incubator Center

Decision Management Tools