IMPACT Agronomics, Inc. began operations in 1984 in Beaufort, North Carolina. The agricultural consulting business, originally Peele Agricultural Consulting, Inc. was launched by Bill Peele who developed programs to help farmers better manage their field and farm operations. This was one of the first agricultural consulting businesses in North Carolina. In 1994 the name was changed to IMPACT Agronomics, Inc. 2019 marks the 35th anniversary of service to the growers and agricultural industry of North Carolina.
Initially the business primarily served growers in Carteret, Pamlico, and Beaufort counties. In 1986 the business moved to Washington to better serve the developing clientele in Hyde, Washington, and Tyrrell counties. Opportunities soon developed with cabbage and Irish potato production in Camden and Currituck counties and a satellite office was opened in Camden, NC. The initial crop mix of corn, wheat, soybeans, cabbage, and Irish potatoes grew to later include sweet corn, broccoli, snap beans, and cucumbers. In 1994 cotton began to come back and has since developed as a major crop. In 2013 the office was moved to the research farm in Pantego, NC.
Bill’s goals and determination have been shared by several individuals coming through the consulting ranks. Bruce Niederhauser joined the business in 1989. In 2003, after working with IMPACT for 14 years, Bruce started his own consulting business, Total Agronomics, Inc. Stan Winslow was hired as an agronomist and after several years of employment Stan purchased the Camden office. He now operates as Tidewater Agronomics, Inc.
Research has always been an important component of the business. Staying abreast of new technology is key in providing up to date information to clientele. In the early years both efficacy and residue trials were conducted. As this component of the business grew, Patrick Kennedy was hired in 1998 to oversee the contract research. Patrick retired from IMPACT in 2006. In 2007, Allen Hubers began overseeing research activities on IMPACT’s newly established research farm in Pantego, NC. Currently IMPACT conducts numerous contract research trials for industry sponsors.
As public funding of applied agricultural research has declined in recent years, IMPACT initiated the Dollar for Research Program. This program was started in 2017 with the goal to help solve local production challenges and improve profitability and sustainability. Funded and directed by local growers, this research program is grower-focused, locally applicable and data-driven.
Throughout the years of operation, the business has effectively provided sound agronomic work for its clients. The current “Making A Difference” philosophy is consistent with all business activities and is evident with the positive effects the team of agronomists has with their clients, and community.
IMPACT Agronomics, Inc. 