For the discerning commercial grower, cost-benefit evaluations are extremely important and commonly used when considering pest control and fertility products. Managers must have data to verify product effectiveness against the target pest, as well as any advantages over competitors. This information is validated by in-field testing in large block comparisons. Although statistically valid, small micro-plot studies lack real world commercial acceptance by growers and their advisers.

In addition, marketing efforts and initial product launch can be made easier if recognized grower groups (market influencers) sponsor successful demonstration blocks on their farms. These groups can work with the product up close to potentially realize the benefits of safer technology. Ideally, corresponding production increases occur to justify a change in their traditional agronomic program.

In addition to manufacturers of new products, larger grower groups contract Pacific Ag to sort out registered products for effectiveness on a variety of crops. In these trials, pest control products, fertilizers, growth enhancer's, and seed treatments undergo bias-free testing in large block comparisons for effects on crop development and overall yield enhancement.

Demonstration sites for almost any agricultural product can either be arranged with established growers chosen by the client or from our extensive group of cooperators in the California and Florida coasts and inland valleys. As with our other projects requiring product applications, we have a fleet of commercial application equipment that is modern, well-maintained, and highly mobile. In addition, our research field stations are centrally located for field days and demonstrations of product performance trials if the client requires a more confidential study. With this option, managers can reserve the decision to demonstrate their product’s effectiveness after the results of the comparison tests are known. Either way, demonstration block testing is an excellent method of seeing new product performance on a larger commercial scale.