ON-FARM TESTING IN TODAYS ENVIRONMENT
Extension Education
Aaron Esser
Extension Agronomist
Washington State University
RITZVILLE
Abstract
\r\n The value of on-farm testing (OFT) has long been documented within Extension, and it remains an important method to help growers solve production issues in today’s environment. It also continues to be a great tool for Extension Agents to connect with growers’ one-on-one or in small groups and really be aware of issues growers are facing. One thing that has not changed over time is that OFT is not research managed small plots on farms, nor is it a single strip or split field comparison. It is a replicated, statistically valid research with field trials established and managed by the growers with field scale equipment. With the need to get bigger and the incorporation of technology, grower’s field scale equipment and efficiencies have changed rapidly over the past few years. Guidance systems, variable rate controls, grain yield monitors, semi trucks, and bank-out wagons are just a few examples that have changed the landscape of traditional OFT. Living in today’s “information age” has also impacted OFT with the need for more rapid accurate results to keep up in this ever changing environment. The tools and equipment have changed in today’s environment, but the OFT process remains the same; identifying the production issue to address, project funding, on-farm trial establishment, plot maintenance, data collection, data analysis, and outreach.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: A.D. Esser
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Esser, A. Extension Agronomist, Washington State University, Washington, 99169