Water transfers can be as simple as an individual seller, or large-scale, involving two or more states.

Banks responded to questions the Kansas City Fed asked about regulatory compliance, staffing needs, competitions and more.

Global factors, such as droughts tightening food supplies and the weak dollar making U.S. goods more affordable overseas, mean prosperity for farmers. Historically, a bust followed times like these.

Small towns struggle with dwindling populations as young adults leave, but the return of older residents can offset this out-migration with their contributions to the local workforce.

Changes in the labor market and the effects of the banking crisis may mean unemployment will recover much more slowly compared to past severe recessions.

Merger booms have reduced the number of small banks, causing many to worry. Research shows the banks may end up stronger while maintaining customer relationships.

Each state has a portfolio with a varying assortment of revenue sources, such as income tax and sales tax, which are affected by the health of the economy. In down times, services get cut or taxes are raised.

Although the United States as a whole feels the pain of this most recent recession, the sting varies from region to region. Variances can be explained by the different industries within these areas, among other factors.

Community banks are experiencing problems along with the rest of the industry, but balance sheets of many community banks are still strong. Sticking to their fundamentals helps during turmoil.

Small, rural banks see the federally chartered Farm Credit System as increasingly significant loan competition. Banks say there is an unfair advantage; the System says choices are good for customers.