Frank Rademacher is the newest edition to the PCM team and heard about the position because he himself has been a part of PCM for several years and seen, firsthand, the benefits of the program.

After graduating from the U of I in 2018 with a degree in Crop Science, he started farming with his father and helped transition their operation to 100% no-till, cover crops, and non-GMO. “I’m excited to use my agronomy background and on-farm experience to help maximize the success of the PCM farmers,” Frank says.

Frank enjoys the variety farming brings – combining biology, chemistry, economics, business management and physical labor.  He’s passionate about maximizing his farm (and others) profit while minimizing the environmental impact. In his spare time he enjoys reading, cooking and spending time with family and friends.

What is Precision Conservation Management?

Precision Conservation Management (PCM) is a free service created by farmers for farmers.  PCM combines precision technology and data management with farm business and financials to help farmers manage, adopt and adapt efficient conservation practices long-term to help improve their bottom line. PCM is a program funded by IL Corn, IL Soybean Association, and grants from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, The Nature Conservancy, Pepsico, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, The Walton Family Foundation and Environmental Defense Fund.

What does a PCM Specialist do?

PCM’s Precision Conservation Specialists are the point of contact with farmers offering one-on-one technical support. Specialists compile and review custom farm reports, assess farm data, demonstrate agronomic strengths and weaknesses, and discuss how each farm compares to other farms in their region. They also connect farmers with Federal, state and local programs – making it a priority to attend annual training to stay informed about new programs and technology useful to PCM farmers.

Interested in participating or learning more about PCM?  E-mail the PCM staff.

This article was originally published by IL Corn and can be found here.