Nutrient Management
Nutrient management on agricultural lands addresses the amount, source, placement, form, and timing of the application of nutrients and soil amendments. This practice seeks to meet the nutrient requirements of the specific crops to be grown to maximize production without over-fertilization. This both reduces the cost of fertilizing agricultural lands and the amount of excess nutrients that leach out of the soil and into nearby waterways. It also promotes long-term improvement and/or maintenance of the physical, chemical and biological condition of the soil.
Successful nutrient management relies heavily upon regular soil testing in addition to regular manure testing if manure is to be applied to the land. To begin developing a nutrient management plan, consider the location of existing water resources or other sensitive areas, the incorporation of cover crops into exiting cropping practices, crop rotations which will increase the efficiency of nutrient uptake, and the use of other conservation practices to reduce the transport and leaching of nutrients and improve water storage and water quality.
