Nutrient Management

WHAT IS NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT?

Managing the amount (rate), source, placement (method of application) and timing of commercial fertilizers, manure, soil amendments, and organic by-products to agricultural landscapes as a source of plant nutrients while protecting local air, soil and water quality.

ADVANTAGES OF NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

Enhances profitability by significantly reducing purchased fertilizer costs
Protects surface water quality by minimizing nutrients, organic matter, and pathogens in agricultural runoff
Protects groundwater in wellhead protection areas from nitrate contamination
Aids compliance with Minnesota feedlot regulations, which limit manure application rates
Improves soil quality and productivity by increasing nutrient retention and water holding capacity and enhancing soil structure
May improve air quality by reducing ammonia emissions
Helps protect public health when nutrient application occurs near municipal or domestic wells, residences, businesses, schools and public lands

HOW CAN WE HELP?

As part of an initiative to help farmers better understand and appreciate their soil, North Jersey RC&D is offering free soil and manure testing for farmers in the targeted watershed regions. Learn more about the initiative, here.