ARS | Publication request: SITE-SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT AND THE SEED INDUSTRY

Submitted to: American Seed Trade Association Conference Proceedings
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: December 9, 1997
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Site-specific management (SSM) is a system in which the application of crop production inputs is optimized for crop needs on a location-by-location basis within a field. Although this type of intensive management is not a new idea, newly developed technologies are now making it feasible on a widespread basis. The technologies and methods of SSM will provide new opportunities for the seed industry. The ability of producers to vary seeding rates or to change varieties across a field may affect the way varieties are developed and marketed. Producers will look to their seed supplier for guidance on the best seeding rate or variety to use for different within-field soil types, nutrient levels, or landscape positions. Yield monitors and other SSM tools have increased producers' interest in and ability to conduct on-farm trials comparing varieties or other treatments on their own fields. This new capability challenges input suppliers, consultants, and extension staff to help the producer design an carry out valid trials which will provide accurate information on which to base management decisions. On-farm research, when properly conducted, also presents opportunities to the seed industry and others to have access to much more comparison data than has previously been available.