Social Science Consultant Frank Clearfield, Ph.D.
A Pathway to Success
The Fertilizer Institute 425 Third Street, SW, Washington, D.C. TFI is a national trade association that represents independent retail fertilizer outlets throughout the U.S. TFI represents these groups to the U.S. Congress and federal regulatory agencies. I worked with TFI throughout 2013 to identify ways that the fertilizer industry and conservation organizations can work closer together. I compiled two national surveys that gained responses from Soil and Water Conservation District staffs on the one hand, and Agricultural Retailers and Certified Crop Advisors on the other. The goal of the survey was to gain information to assist in accelerating 4R practice adoption and improve economic and environmental outcomes for agricultural producers and for the public. 4R refers to proper fertilizer applications - Right source, Right rate, Right time, and Right place. For further information on my assistance, contact Lora Moody, Director, TFI Stewardship Programs, 202-515-2721.
i-Path Media is a company that does advertising for pharmaceutical firms. They place information about drug content, drug delivery, and drug capabilities on Journal Cover Wraps to target medical professionals. In 2016, I worked with iPath Media representatives to evaluate awareness, knowledge, and the likelihood that medical professionals would prescribe the drug after viewing this information through this advertising medium.
Blackwoods Group Washington, D.C. I work with the Blackwoods group on projects related to soil and water conservation issues. Blackwoods Group is a consulting organization that Carole Jett and Dr. Douglas Lawrence founded. These individuals held leadership position at the Natural Resources Conservation Service as well as with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. For further information on my collaborations with this group, contact Dr. Lawrence at 202-547-3475
Saint James Plantation Southport, NC. I worked as a volunteer to develop and conduct local surveys on the initiation and placement of amenities within a seaside community as well as the support for golf outings. The first survey had a 75% residential response rate. The results were presented back to the community and to the local developer for consideration. The issues are still in debate, but the voice of the community has been clearly heard.
Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. I held a variety of positions and served in several different locations during my 29 year career with this Federal agency. I retired from Federal service in January of 2012. I served as the national sociologist, Director of the Social Sciences Institute, Director of the Social Sciences Team, and Director of the Outreach and Advocacy Division during my tenure. My resume is available upon request.
Farm Foundation and NRCS. In 2015-2016, I conducted 12 focus groups in 12 different U.S locations on the effect that climate has on agriculture. This was done under the auspices of the Resource Conservation Act of 1977, which periodically assesses the state of the nation's soil and water conservation resources and makes recommendation for improving programs, staffing, and outreach to address these issues. A report was finalized and delivered to appropriate USDA officials.
National Association of Conservation Districts. In 2016-2017, I worked with a partnership of five conservation organizations whose project goal is to reinvigorate the art and science of conservation planning. We conducted 4 surveys, listening sessions, and focus group meetings to acquire baseline data on the state of conservation planning. The project will advance through stages with the initial stages focusing on enhancing the ability of the 5 organizations to strengthen their infrastructure to meet future demands. A public information campaign will follow that stimulates "demand" for conservation planning services.