The summary reveals, among other things, that large differences exist
between those who use crop consulting services, and their neighbors who do
not. 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%).
For more information, please write/call/or e-mail the address below for the
4-page report.
Peggy Petrzelka
303 East Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-2769
e-mail: x1peggy@exnet.iastate.edu