Description

There are many types of services that a consultant or advisor can offer to organic farmers. In this lesson, we will explore agronomic-type services that are in demand with organic farmers.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the agronomic advising services in demand with organic farmers

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Content Notes

Agronomic Services

Need for Experienced Advisors

• Farmers express a desire for knowledgeable agronomists who can guide them through the complexities of organic farming.
• Moral support during the transition is equally important as technical assistance.
• An agronomic advisor is vital during the transition to organic farming. By providing comprehensive support and reassurance, you can help farmers navigate the complexities of organic agriculture and build successful, sustainable operations.
  
  

Agronomic Services to Offer

• Transition Planning
  • Services Include:
    • Identifying suitable crop rotations.
    • Calculating transition costs.
    • Setting up fertility and input sourcing strategies.
    • Developing marketing plans for post-transition.

Note: NRCS Cap 138 Program can provide assistance for natural resource concerns.

• Soil Sampling and Testing
  • Expertise needed for:
    • Appropriate application of standard soil tests for organic farms.
    • Interpreting results and recommendations for crop rotation and ecological farming.
      
• Input Sourcing
  • Assistance with:
    • Identifying quality organic inputs (manure, seeds, inoculants).
    • Sourcing effective products and connections to suppliers.
      
• Equipment and Infrastructure
  • Provide guidance on:
    • Purchasing and resuscitating cultivation equipment and infrastructure (e.g., storage bins).
    • Financial advice for infrastructure investments to ensure long-term viability.
      
• Cover Crop Integration
  • Offer coaching on:
    • Establishing and terminating cover crops.
    • Utilizing cover crops for various benefits (weed control, erosion protection).
      
• Seed Selection
  • Help farmers in selecting:
    • Crop varieties based on disease resistance, pollination timing, and specific agronomic qualities.
    • Locating certified organic seeds.
      
• Pest, Disease, and Weed Scouting
  • Offer services to:
    • Monitor fields for pest and disease issues.
    • Provide a second opinion to preemptively identify problems.
      
• Designing and Managing On-Farm Trials
  • Facilitate:
    • On-farm trials to evaluate products or seed varieties.
    • Collectively learned lessons to guide future decisions.
      
• Troubleshooting
  • Act as a:
    • Resource for identifying and resolving problems early.
    • Supportive sounding board for farmers facing challenges.