AN ANALYSIS OF 1999 GROSS RETURNS FOR SMALL GRAINS IN NORTH DAKOTA

North Dakota gross returns from HRS wheat, durum wheat, and barley declined in 1999, relative to the expected gross returns, due to adverse weather conditions and low prices. The total gross return reductions in 1999 was estimated to be $361 million, which was divided into $51 million from weather and disease and $329 million from lower-than-average prices. Gross return reductions were largest in Region 1 (Northwest), followed by Regions 3 (Northeast) and 6 (East Central). HRS wheat accounted for the largest income loss, followed by durum and barley. However, total net farm income increased in 1999 relative to 1998, because of government payments and crop insurance.