By Blake Jackson
Mistakes on the farm can be costly in terms of money, time, and relationships. When a service provider sprays the wrong field or leaves a gate open, the results can be frustrating. However, handling such mistakes in a professional way is crucial, says Katie Neuner, agricultural business specialist with the University of Missouri Extension.
Neuner had a personal experience when a custom applicator accidentally damaged 5 acres of brome hay on her farm near Lexington. The damage was visible within 24 hours, and she quickly documented the site with photos and contacted the applicator. An agronomist was sent to inspect the damage, and the applicator used a drone for aerial inspection to confirm the injury. Previous crop records helped calculate the yield loss and establish a fair market value for the damaged land.
University of Missouri Extension agronomist Wayne Flanary highlights key steps to take when mistakes occur on the farm, especially in rural areas where professional relationships are important. These steps can help ensure a fair resolution for everyone involved.
Flanary recommends these actions:
- Identify the cause and location of the injury. Look for patterns or symptoms, such as circular damage, which may indicate pests or nutrient issues.
- Consult an expert if you're unsure. Contact a Certified Crop Adviser or local agronomist for advice.
- Document the damage by taking photos from different angles, showing both injured and healthy plants.
- Diagnose the plants by taking samples to the MU Extension Plant Diagnostic Clinic for further analysis.
- Contact the applicator professionally with the facts and inquire about the product used, timing, and weather conditions.
- Assess monetary damages and ask your applicator to file an insurance claim if the damage is confirmed
Photo Credit: university-of-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Education