An agricultural consultant advises clients on agriculture, land management, crops, and conservation. They work independently or for a consulting firm, providing guidance on business and technical practices. Communication skills are essential, and a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related science is preferred.
An agricultural consultant is a scientist who advises clients on topics related to agriculture, land management, crops and conservation. It can provide consultancy to the public or private sector. An agricultural consultant typically works as an independent contractor, for a government agency, or as part of a consulting firm.
Agricultural advice is typically required by a diverse mix of people. Conservation groups often seek advice from the consultant on land preservation issues. Farmers, landowners and producers often contact an agricultural consultant to help them resolve issues related to livestock, land use and crop management.
The two areas in which an agricultural consultant typically consults relate to business and technical practices. Business topics on which she often provides guidance include personnel management, financial planning, and investment strategies. The technical issues she frequently advises on include soil and water conservation, environmental regulations, and nutritional source choices for different types of livestock and crops.
A consultant in this field usually visits his clients at their places of business or at their farms or ranches. If the advice sought pertains to animals or crops, she may examine animals with a veterinarian to understand problems or roam the land to look for areas of concern. Review of financial records and budget projections may be in order if the consultant is asked for business advice.
As an agricultural consultant is typically knowledgeable about laws affecting land use and environmental impacts, advice is often sought in the preparation of grant applications and business plans. She is also regularly asked to help analyze farm data and reports and help clients choose options to improve their crop yields or generally increase revenues. Community groups often feature an agricultural consultant in presentations and demonstrations related to agriculture, agribusiness, and environmental topics.
Good communication skills are often essential to the success of an agricultural consultant. She is regularly asked to give oral presentations on agricultural topics. She also often writes brochures and brochures on agricultural topics, provides technical notes to environmental scientists, and submits press releases and articles to the media.
A bachelor’s degree in environmental science, animal husbandry, biology or a related science is highly desirable. Many employers require a candidate to have a master’s degree to be considered as an agricultural consultant. Experience in the agricultural industry is strongly preferred. Knowledge in research and agricultural science is considered an advantage for candidates, as is current knowledge of agricultural laws and legislative issues related to agriculture and land use.
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