On-Farm Research in the Pacific Northwest.

A 5-year Pacific Northwest On-Farm Testing (OFT) Project was conducted in Idaho, Oregon and Washington from 1991-1995 as part of the STEEP II (Solutions to Environmental and Economic Problems) conservation farming research and education program through the University of Idaho, Oregon State University and Washington State University. The project objectives were: 1) identify, develop and evaluate OFT methodologies for Northwest conditions; 2) develop and deliver OFT educational materials and programs; and 3) assist growers in testing conservation practices using OFT methods. The methodology research effort included 14 uniformity trials harvested in grower wheat or barley fields to measure natural field variability among non-treatment plots. Eight side-by-side strips up to 450 m long harvested in 75 m segments showed the decrease in variance with increasing plot length and 225 m became the recommended minimum plot length. Extension publications, training workshops, trial publication, and direct contact supported growers conducting OFTs. During the 5-year project, nearly 250 OFTs were conducted in the three states. Major OFT topics included tillage systems, variety performance, residue management, planting systems, crop rotations, soil amendments, and crop or field application of fertilizers and pest control products. Some OFTs were conducted by individual growers on topics of their own specific interest. Many others addressed issues of concerns to larger areas and were collaborative efforts among growers, researchers and other Ag support personnel. During the project, OFTs were stimulated by technical and practical support of grower OFT design, layout, harvest, and analysis. In 1996-1998, 56 additional on-farm trials were conducted in northern Idaho with local support. Although fewer trials were conducted after the project ended, the principles and processes established by this project are being used to date. OFT project publications and information can be found in the website: http://pnwsteep.wsu.edu/onfarmtesting/index.htm