10 Years of Data. One Goal: Keep Farmers Profitable.

Rosalie Trump: PCM
August 14, 2025
Book cover

Precision Conservation Management (PCM) recently released their latest publication, The Business Case for Conservation, in the June issue of Prairie Farmer Magazine. This year’s edition marks a major milestone: 10 years of financial and conservation data from Illinois farms, focused on helping farmers navigate tight margins while protecting their land for the future.

PCM knows 2024 was one of the most challenging financial environments for commodity crop farmers in decades. That’s why this year’s publication places a stronger emphasis on real-world strategies to improve profitability—whether you’re looking to cut input costs, reduce risk, or make your conservation practices pay.

What’s Inside the PCM Data Book?

Based on aggregated data from thousands of PCM-enrolled acres, the latest report covers:

  • The profitability advantage of reduced tillage systems
  • Updated results on nitrogen fertilizer rates and application timing
  • Recommendations for reducing financial risk when implementing cover crops
  • Tips for accessing cost-share programs (even if you’re not enrolled in PCM)
  • A mindset shift from chasing yield to chasing profitability

This review of a decade of PCM data helps farmers cut through the noise and focus on what’s consistently delivering value in their fields.

Want to dig into the data even more?
Watch Dr. Laura Gentry and Dr. Gary Schnitkey discuss insights from the latest data here:

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