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Peer advisory groups serve as a resource for farmers and ranchers by fostering collaboration, exchange of experiences, and problem-solving. By sharing information and utilizing each member’s strengths, peer advisory groups help farm businesses thrive in a competitive environment.<\/p>\n
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Continuous learning and adopting innovative practices and technologies are crucial for farmers and ranchers to stay ahead. Among the numerous resources available, one invaluable tool stands out for progressive and business-minded ag producers \u2013 peer advisory groups. Unlike larger corporate entities, most agricultural businesses, particularly family-owned ones, often see their managers making crucial decisions alone. The lack of challenging and diverse ideas usually means that producers miss business opportunities or fail to implement beneficial changes for their operations. Here’s where peer advisory groups act as a reciprocal advisory board that helps farm businesses generate knowledge and improve management strategies that can impact their operation.<\/p>\n
A peer advisory group is formed by ranchers and farmers willing to share their experiences and make the most of each member’s talents to solve problems and make business decisions. They constantly exchange information, knowledge, ideas, experiences, and opinions. Each group consists of 8-12 producers who periodically meet on each member’s operation. This group size helps maintain the intimacy and trust necessary to obtain the best results from each group member.<\/p>\n
There are several peer group systems with methodologies for agricultural producers to achieve their goals. Argentina’s CREA groups are among the oldest and most experienced peer group associations (Regional Consortiums of Agricultural Experimentation). This association has over 2,000 members and 60 years of experience using and perfecting peer group methodology. CREA members have continuously improved their productivity and are at the forefront of new technologies and management practices. Thanks to the business management mindset generated within these groups, its members are among the top 20% of their country.<\/p>\n
One notable example here in Texas and Oklahoma is the peer advisory group developed through the collaborative efforts of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and funding from Southern Risk Management Education. This group focuses on the production risks associated with new production systems while addressing the economic, financial, and organizational aspects of running a successful business.<\/p>\n
The Southern Risk Management Education Center has provided funding for creating two additional peer advisory groups. This month, we will host two meetings in Hemphill and Moore County. At these meetings, you will receive all the necessary information about peer advisory groups. If you are interested in joining these groups or would like to learn more about how peer advisory groups operate, please feel free to contact us.<\/p>\n
Andy Holloway, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
\nHemphill County Extension Office
\nandy.holloway@ag.tamu.edu<\/p>\n
Marcel Fischbacher, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
\nMoore County Extension Office
\nmhfischbacher@ag.tamu.edu<\/p>\n
Tim Steffens, West Texas A&M University
\nAssociate Professor and Rangeland Resource Management
\ntim.steffens@wtamu.edu<\/p>\n
Pancho Abello, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service
\npancho.abello@ag.tamu.edu<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"