The Farm Beat: A Chance to Serve

The state is seeking a new member for its Fertilizer Inspection Advisory Board, according to a news release I got today. Yes, it struck me as funny at first glance (as do many things on the ag beat) but I can see how important this is. Buyers deserve to get what they pay for, whether it's a car or a bag of peaches or the fertilizer that the farmer used to grow the fruit.

The board "works to ensure that consumers receive fertilizing materials that are safe and effective and meet the quality guaranteed by the manufacturer," the release said.

Applicants must be licensed to handle fertilizer materials or represent licensed companies. There's no pay, but the members have the satisfaction of knowing that they are keeping the industry honest.

Spread the word.