Project Overview
As fertilizer prices increase, it is important to use nitrogen efficiently by limiting loss to the environment. Precision fertilizer application methods, including split nitrogen, variable rate and nitrogen inhibitors, lead to greater nitrogen uptake by the crop, and therefore larger yields. The perceived risk of reduced net returns prevents farmers from transitioning to more sustainable, economically stable production systems. Crop consultants addressed these concerns by leading a workshop and meeting individually with 25 Illinois corn growers, which covered the mechanics of precision applications, and how the aspects of participating in the BMP CHALLENGE program mitigate production, financial and legal risks, while achieving economic viability.
Following the workshop, participants received expert technical assistance to design a customized precision fertilizer nutrient management plan. Thirteen growers enrolled 20 fields in the BMP CHALLENGE program, using a “check-strip” with conventional fertilizer practices to evaluate the effect of using the alternative management practices. Thirty additional fields implemented a small-scale comparison of Adapt-N versus conventional practice, for a total of 50 comparisons.
Number of Participants: 623
PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS
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EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS
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REPORTS & EVALUATIONS
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