Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Variability in the grower/PCA relationship thwarts general statements
about how partnerships have impacted the pest-management decision-
making process. Both affiliated and independent PCAs describe their role
as largely dictated by the grower, and that they exist solely to serve their
needs. In proposing a course of action, PCAs assess a grower's under-
standing of the ecological relationships in their field or orchard, as well
as his or her financial resources, tolerance for damage, and risk aversion.
A grower's approach to applying pesticides is shaped by these, but also
equipment and labor availability, re-entry intervals for other activities
(e.g., irrigation), and the anticipated cost of doing nothing. Experienced
or sophisticated growers use PCAs like consultants; they are in charge,
but they want an outside expert opinion. Growers that are smaller, with-
out experience or confidence often “lean on their PCA” to help them
make a decision. Smaller growers are less desirable for PCAs to serve
consistently because they tend to demand a lot of time for
consultation/education and “hand holding.” PCAs will not receive suffi-
cient compensation, either for pesticide sales or for per acre monitoring,
to make serving them a high priority. Growers of this size are more
susceptible to ad hoc pest-management decision-making. They are also
more vulnerable to unscrupulous PCAs taking advantage of their
ignorance.
In the first few seasons of a relationship, PCAs assess a grower's
farm-management style, including his or her knowledge, financial
resources, and attitudes toward hazardous materials. Many dimensions
of grower-PCA negotiations are tacit (including potential unintended
consequences). Thus, while advocates of reduced pesticide use criticize
growers for “fear-based decisions,” or PCAs “for preying on growers'
fears,” the risk of crop loss is so great that caution is economically
rewarded. Growers know they will not lose their operation if they spray
unnecessarily, but know that they may if they do not spray when
required.
PCAs are quite frank about the risk dimension in their work. Affiliated
and independent PCAs know that a wrong decision could push a mar-
ginal grower to the brink of economic disaster. Both independent and
affiliated PCAs risk their livelihoods, and implicitly ask their growers
to do the same, based on their expert knowledge. A PCA's continued
occupation is dependent on his good reputation in the agricultural com-
 
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