Peer groups have been helpful for CEO’s, marketing managers, entrepreneurs, human resources, operations managers, etc. in both big and small business for years. The modern day farm manager encompasses all of these jobs and it can be a helpful tool to help farm owners and operators to perform efficiently by sharing information and experiences with each other. It is also beneficial from a mental and social health perspective for the peer group to discuss problems and issues within their operations and get feedback and support from the fellow members.

This particular peer group is comprised of 8 farmers that are spread across three states: Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana. These farmers have all participated in the Corn Grower Core Program and/or the Kentucky Ag Leadership Program (KALP) together, so they were familiar with each on a professional level. Combined, the group manages over 35,000 acres of crop ground, along with livestock, tobacco, and some specialty crops. The group meets 2-3 times a year and rotates each visit to a different member’s farm. The moderator (extension agent) coordinates each visit. The visit is spent hearing and seeing the ins and outs of the host farms operation. The host will then have questions and concerns that they present to the group and the group provides them feedback.

Every member of the group has made investments in their farming operation based on feedback and input from peer group meetings. Investments have included grain drying systems and land purchases. Learning from peers about their experiences with low interest FSA loan programs and KADB energy loans helped fund many of these investments. Agronomic practices that have improved include herbicide program changes, planter modifications, and fertilizer program adjustments to name a few.

Marketing and management decisions have made big improvements within the group as most members have now implemented virtual time tracking for employees and have found ways to increase pay and benefits for employees.

On a recent survey, members stated:

“It has helped bring a culture of professionalism to our operation. I also believe our yields have improved drastically through learning from each other’s practices.”

“Hands down the best program for business and personal growth. I graduated from KALP and would rank this very very close. This is a vital tool in my business and one that is exponentially improving myself and my farm!”

“This group is one of the most valuable parts of my management training for me as the owner and manager of my farm. It is tremendously important to my operations success.”