Low use but potential for high gain from farm consultants, research shows

Abstract

Although professional help with farm management is very important to many farmers, most do not employ a consultant, even though an analysis of profit data shows that farmers who do receive $4 return for every dollar spent.

This is just one conclusion from the first instalment of what will be a series of results stemming from research conducted by Lincoln University’s Senior Lecturer in Farm Management Research, Dr Kevin Old, and Research Fellow, Dr Peter Nuthall.

Last year more than 2000 farmers were mailed a questionnaire which sought information on opinions and preferences concerning farm succession and governance. A response rate of 36% was achieved, with the researchers noting that, with this response being greater than the norm, it was clear to them that the farmers were very interested in the topics covered.

With the decisions made by farmers having a significant impact on New Zealand’s wellbeing, it’s important to know what how these decisions are made; particularly when it comes to ascertaining how to improve farm management skills.