Grain Marketing Consultant

[melvill]

Digger, here's another thing you might want to watch. One of the Alberta government departments, Justice and Attorney General, I think, is reviewing the act that governs the Alberta Institute of Agrologists with the idea of implementing a new act in the spring of 2004, I believe.

At that time, I think one of the changes to the act will be a requirement of membership in the AIA to do the kind of market consulting that you are considering. I would suggest you contact Graham Gilchrist at 780-632-5417 to get a little background. Graham is the immediate past Pres. of the AIA and is pretty knowledgeable on this issue.

Agrologists are basically people that are working in the field of agriculture as advisors or consultants or researchers, etc. They are required to meet certain qualifications. The AIA is their professional organization much like the org that chartered accountants or lawyers or doctors belong t. The AIA web site is at http://www.aia.ab.ca/. Have a look.

[Digger]

Thanks for the feedback. I really do appreciate it.

I don't think anyone is going to "give only good market advice" 100% of the time. I like your curling analogy Charlie. I view it as being more of a partner with a producer trying to maximize his returns and reduce his risk via a well thought out grain business plan. I will go back to what I said in my first posting, "consider all the time, attention to detail and money that goes into growing the crop vs how much of the same is afforded the selling/marketing of that same crop".

I don't think that farmers are uneducated on markets etc etc or too stupid. In fact I think they are more aware of these things then ever before. There is more marketing information available now than ever in history, right at our fingertips. Does this make it any easier? I think it makes tougher.

[TOM4CWB]

Digger;

I believe marketing, just like accounting, growing grain, working with people, being a successful business owner;

All of these have skill involved... but 9 times out of 10... the person who is dedicated and gifted in the area required for success will do well all other things being equal.

Otherwise a person can do well, if they know where they are not gifted... and are smart enough to know their limitations... and get some help.

When I know I need help... then I am ready to pay for that help.

But if I am innovative... I will learn from my consultant... and in time will not need my teacher any more!

Therefore if a marketing consultant does an excellent job... this person will work right out of the job that he created... and must then look for new clients... a never ending job.

Have fun Digger!