Nutrient Management

Best Management Practice (BMP's)

Proper nutrient management saves money and maximizes crop production while minimizing pollution caused by runoff of excess fertilizer. Effective nutrient management utilizes systematic soil testing and plant tissue analysis, and provides the landowner with information regarding appropriate timing and application rates. Calibration of fertilizer application equipment also ensures that application rates are cost-effective. Nutrient management generally falls into three classes:

1) BMPs clearly visible and working;

2) No harm is visible, but absence of BMPs leave room for
improvement; and,

3) There is clear evidence of pollution.
Analyzing soil and following research based recommendations are important first steps.

Manure Management Planner (MMP) (PDF)

Geospatial Nutrient Tool - GNT (PDF)

Alfalfa Fact Sheet (.doc)