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Evaluation of integrated pecan production management systems (Chaves County)

Plan Goal

To assess the effects of new and conventional management practices on pecan orchard yields and quality. To promote those orchard management practices demonstrated to enhance pecan orchard profitability.

Situation Statement

In 2004 Chaves County ranked number 2 in the state in total pounds of Pecan Production with 4,400,000 lbs production. Since 2004 I predict that we will see a sharp increase in total production as many more acres have been put into production at an alarming rate. It is more critical today than ever before for growers to maximize production efficiency. I feel that is important to work with Specialists to educate potential problems facing producers but most importantly, it is important for the agent to become more familiar with the Pecan Industry and the potential problems that the producer may encounter. The research and extension activities in this plan of work will make the local pecan industry more competitive in the world market in the long term by making growers better able to make informed management decisions.

Target Audience and Actions

The target audience for this program includes large and small scale pecan growers in Chaves County. NMSU Specialist will be conducting research and working with the agent in proper management practices. Results will be disseminated via one-on-one visits with growers,field days and extension publications.

Short-Term Objectives

To increase the knowledge of all pecan producers in nutrient deficiency, proper irrigation practices and pesticide management using proper IPM techniques by 10%.
To conduct a community education program by means of educational workshops and by one on one conversations. Chaves County pecan growers attending presentations or reading published materials will, on average, report a 25% improvement in their ability to make well-informed orchard management decisions.

Medium-Term Objectives

Ten percent of pecan growers attending presentations or reading publications will adopt those management practices demonstrated to enhance orchard profitability. Agent knowledge in Pecan Production will increase 50%. Agent will build working relationship with Specialist 100%. In return, the agent will meet 75% large producers and 10% small producers in Chaves County.

Long-Term Objectives

Of Chaves County pecan growers adopting practices promoted by this program, 10% will report reduced alternate bearing intensity, higher yield/quality or reduced inputs as a result of adopting these practices.

Evaluation Plan

Objectives will be evaluated through personal observations and interviews.