Due to the state’s high land values, property taxes and labor rates, the cost to grow field crops in New Jersey is higher than in most other production areas. With commodity prices based on national production costs, yields and demand, it is less profitable to produce commodity items in New Jersey than elsewhere.

In 2003, Rutgers investigated market opportunities for edible soybeans, progress toward the construction of an ethanol plant continued, a list of organic hay producers was created, and the Department continued grower education about agri-tourism.

In 2004 efforts will be continued to support organic crop production, farm income diversification, the establishment of an ethanol plant and the prospect of commercially producing edible soybeans will be continued.

5.1 Support Organic Field Crop Production

48) STRATEGY – Encourage the production of certified organic soybeans, corn and wheat to increase the value of these crops.

49) STRATEGY – Assist in linking growers with organic food processors to help identify new market opportunities and take advantage of the growing demand for processed food products made from organic ingredients.

5.2 Explore Opportunities to Diversify Farm Income

50) STRATEGY – Encourage growers to divert a small fraction of acreage now used for field crops to other seasonal products, such as pumpkins, to help buffer against dips in commodity market prices.

5.3 Support Plans for Ethanol and Bio-Diesel Plants

51) STRATEGY – Facilitate and support efforts to construct an ethanol plant in South Jersey. The plant will be the first in the Mid-Atlantic region and will create a major new market for the state’s grain growers, and has the potential to elevate the price paid for regionally produced corn.

52) STRATEGY- Research the feasibility of constructing a bio-diesel plant in New Jersey.

5.4 Investigate Market Opportunities for Edamame –Vegetable Soybeans

53) STRATEGY – Support New Jersey production research into this variety of vegetable soybean. Edamame does not require processing to be ready for human consumption can be consumed fresh or frozen and is high in protein and low in cholesterol and fat. Continue to investigate marketing opportunities and channels of distribution to capitalize on edamame’s increasing popularity among all ethnic groups.