The average size of a U.S farm in 2022 was 446 acres, according to a USDA report. No matter how many acres your operation boasts, there are a lot of hats to be worn to maximize productivity.
Regardless of operation size, adding high-level expertise on a limited basis should be a top priority, according to Steve Kluemper, AgriStrategies LLC founder. He offers two suggestions for a la carte management.
1. Rank the operation’s needs
“Most farms and ag businesses don’t have the time, capabilities, perspectives, resources or desire to do all the tasks it takes to run an operation or business. Most will hire an agronomist, nutritionist, marketing specialist, accountant, mechanic, financial advisor and others to fill gaps in their management team,” says Kluemper.
Kluemper suggests crafting a list of the operation’s areas that could benefit from extra support, then rank them from largest to smallest need.
2. Consider time and pay
Next, consider the time and pay dedicated to each on-farm roll. Kluemper says the time should depend on how wide the on-farm gap is. He suggests asking about customized service options.
“Various consultants have different ways of billing, but some offer a per-hour basis. Personally, I offer 1-to-4-month rates, so I base it on a timeframe. I like to use this in the first project with a new customer to get both sides of the aisle comfortable,” he says.
However, before reaching out to a consultant, consider the vision of change you have for your operation.
“To achieve success, you have to determine what success means to you. Next, decide where you’re going and how you’re going to get there. Have these points defined before you get in contact with someone to fill a gap,” says Kluemper.
To get in contact with Kluemper, reach out through email at steve.kluemper@agristrategiesllc.com
