Financing the Future: Conversations on Credit, Risk, and Resilience with Allyson Bise
In a time when farming is as financially complex as it is physically demanding, understanding credit and finance is more important than ever. In our latest episode of Field Good Life, Jennifer sits down with Allyson Bise, a Financial Services Specialist with Nutrien Financial, to talk about how farmers can better navigate the ever-changing credit landscape and prepare for what's ahead.
From Hobby Farm to Helping Farmers
Allyson’s path into agriculture wasn’t a straight line. She didn’t grow up on a commercial farm—instead, she was surrounded by animals and agriculture in her rural Arkansas community. It wasn’t until college that she found her calling in ag, switching her major after attending a College of Agriculture event. That moment, as she says, is when she realized, “I want to do ag.”
Her career path has since taken her from ADM to Farm Credit to Nutrien Financial, where she now helps farmers make smart financial decisions that support their operations year-round.
Understanding Nutrien’s Role in Supporting Growers
At Nutrien, Allyson works directly with both growers and sales reps, offering tailored financing options that help keep interest expenses low and operations running smoothly. She’s a boots-on-the-ground kind of person—meeting with farmers, helping them sort through applications, and demystifying credit options with clear visuals and real-life examples.
“I can also structure our payment plan with you,” she explains. “It’s not just about offering a loan—it’s about making the numbers work for your unique situation.”
Interest Rates, Credit Lines, and the 2025 Outlook
As interest rates have climbed in recent years, many farmers are turning to ag retailers like Nutrien for lines of credit. These credit lines come with their own benefits—often lower rates, more flexibility, and less red tape—but they also require strong bookkeeping and communication between the farmer and their lender.
“Good bookkeeping is going to be your best friend,” Allyson notes, especially when juggling multiple due dates across several financing programs.
With 2025 shaping up to be a tough financial year for farmers, many are trying to plan ahead. The reality is, “It’s getting pretty lean,” Allyson says. She emphasizes the importance of having a plan—and sticking to it. Farmers are also exploring carbon programs, non-farm income, and diversified crops to help weather the storm.
And while credit lines remain a useful tool, Allyson cautions against offers that seem too good to be true. Knowing your due dates, staying in touch with your banker, and aligning credit with cash flow are essential.
The Need for a Farm Bill—and a Bit of Faith
One major topic that came up was the critical need for a farm bill in the coming year. Allyson believes it’s going to take government support, smart planning, and difficult conversations to carry many operations into 2026. “We need a farm bill,” she says plainly.
Don’t forget to listen to the podcast if you missed it!
💚https://open.spotify.com/episode/0TwVqArCJ2NcDyn6WPxBL8?si=6062f93a95914b8d