Summary The large differences existing between
those who use crop consulting services, and their neighbors who do not, reveal several
benefits are gained from the information and management recommendations provided by a crop
consultant. Specific management practices which have increased since the employment of a
consultant include pest management and alterations in nutrient rates, leading to decreases
in fertilizer use. Users indicated they not only value information gained from soil
sampling, scouting, and fertilizer recommendations, but also the "unbiased second
opinion" the consultant offers.
Economically, the majority of users (59%)
indicated an increase in profits per acre since hiring their consultant, attributed
changes in total cost of production to their consultants' effectiveness (56%), and
indicated they are receiving double or better return for every $1.00 invested in
consultant services (74%).
However, despite these favorable findings and the perception of clear economic value of employing a crop consultant, the consultants seek out new clients and market themselves only minimally. Thirty-six percent of users first became aware of/or selected their crop consulting service through a friend/neighbors' referral, while 25 percent indicated they were contacted by the crop consultant. Less than half (47%) of the user group indicated that their crop consultant made claims about the value of their services. |
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"In any business, improved
management leads to more efficient production and increased profits. Crop consultants are
one way that producers can improve their management. By scouting fields for pests,
calculating nutrient credits and fertilizer needs, and considering tillage and equipment
needs, a good crop consultant routinely increases the customer's net income."
Wendy Wintersteen, ISU Extension IPM Coordinator |
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