Every year Federated Co-ops asks growers to resubmit a signed Product Service Policy (PSP) prior to receiving any Federated services. Every year people ask, “Why?”

Craig Gustafson, Federated’s agronomy operations manager, explained: “Our goal is to deliver high-quality service,” and part of that service includes implementing “best management practices” to protect the environment while minimizing the cost of services. The PSP is an essential element of “best practices,” and while the PSP hasn’t changed, crop environments are constantly changing.

Examples of environmental changes:

1. the presence of bee hives, orchards, vineyards, and private or commercial gardens on lands adjacent to crops;
2. changes in land ownership or tenancy;
3. construction of new homes or other dwellings;
4. various other variables.

Federated respects the property of growers and others in the community. “Our [professional] custom application operators take pride in a job well done,” said Gustafson. The PSP provides vital information to help ensure proper – and safe – application of fertilizer and chemicals. 

“Our team of agronomists will be in contact with you to discuss the 2019 Product Service Policy. Please be prepared to share with us any and all changes in your neighborhood,” said Gustafson. A signed 2019 PSP must be on file before Federated can provide any custom application services.

“Let’s protect our environment together and take pride in a job well done,” added Gustafson. And be sure to call your Federated Agronomist with any concerns about changes in your crop environment.