Colorado Farming Associations

While the state of Colorado is one of the largest proso millet producers in the U.S., other crops such as wheat hay and alfalfa are commonly grown here as well. Between all these crops, land used for grain farming amounts to over 4.1 million acres of soil, yielding approximately $1.5 billion annually to the state’s economy. With nearly half of Colorado’s total land area used just for agriculture production, it’s no wonder that crop farming plays a major role in the state’s economy.

Many farmers face the same challenges regardless of crop or livestock focus. Concerns about productivity, legislative changes, tax issues and operations, often make the top of the list. While advisors like Adams Brown, Strategic Allies and CPAs, help farmers and ranchers navigate tax, accounting, audit and other financial and agribusiness challenges, it is important to be aware of the various industry associations and groups that provide other essential types of support.

Colorado Crop Associations

Below is a list of the top Colorado crop associations, including:

• Colorado Fruit & Vegetable Growers serves Colorado growers by connecting them with industry, government, academia and consumers to build and expand in-state fresh fruit and vegetable production. The organization focuses on issues related to food safety, water, labor, nutrition and business development. Several educational resources are available including webinars and guides on food safety requirements. There are also several consumer resources available including recipes and health information. Finally, there are several in-person events offered including the annual conference.
• Colorado Corn Council is focused on expanding opportunities and advancing both technology and production practices that result in profitable and sustainable corn crops. The primary areas of focus include public policy, market development and check-off dollars. In addition, there is a significant focus on education specifically targeting youth. This includes offering financial support to 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA) programs, public school programs and even a 5-day institute course for educators. Finally, several publications are offered including Field Journal, Field Kernels and an annual report.
• Colorado Farmer’s Market focuses on supporting and promoting Colorado farmer’s markets and the direct marketing of Colorado agricultural products. Several resources are available to members including information for vendors and even how to start a market. Existing farmer’s markets can benefit from the trove of information on food safety, insurance, SNAP and food benefits. Finally, members have access to an annual conference that covers a diverse range of market management topics.
• Colorado Seed Growers is an educational and service organization that acts as the official seed certifying agency in Colorado. Created as a Cooperative Extension of Colorado State University, it focuses on providing essential information to farmers and others about crop standards, industrial hemp and other essential topics. In addition, there is a Seed Growers Handbook and other seed grower publications available. Colorado State University is also home to the Colorado Seed Industry Association (CSIA) which holds an annual forum for the seed industry in the state and offers networking opportunities