How to Conduct Research on Your Farm or Ranch

Editor's note
The following abstract describes a publication that is intended for print distribution or as a downloadable PDF. Please see links to the PDF file and ordering information on this page.

Farmers and ranchers seeking to cut production costs or improve stewardship of natural resources often experiment with new methods. Designing and carrying out simple research tests in a more organized fashion, however, can provide reliable, valuable answers to production questions. This bulletin describes how to conduct research at the farm level, with practical tips for both crop and livestock producers as well as a comprehensive list of more in-depth resources.

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Keywords

Market analysis
Contact agricultural extension offices
Be precise about questions
Quantitative research
Surveys
Qualitative research
Focus groups
In-depth interviews
Discussions
Consumer choices
Preferences

Pages

SX1009, reviewed July 2004