A new survey of Illinois agricultural retailers shows that farmers are making progress in adopting nutrient management practices that help reduce pollution in waterways.
The survey, conducted by the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association and the Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council, found that the use of no-till and cover crops is increasing, and that farmers are more likely to use inhibitors to reduce the risk of nutrient leaching.
No-till is a farming practice that leaves crop residue on the ground after harvest. This helps to protect the soil from erosion and improve water infiltration. Cover crops are planted in the fall or winter to help prevent soil erosion and improve soil health.
Some key findings from the Illinois Ag Retail Survey include:
• No-Till Adoption: In the year 2022, roughly 24% of corn fields and 44% of soybean fields in Illinois employed no-till farming practices. No-till involves leaving crop residue on the ground post-harvest, safeguarding soil from erosion and promoting water infiltration.
• Cover Crop Usage: During the fall of 2021, cover crops were observed on approximately 9% of fields, reflecting a growing interest in soil health improvement and erosion prevention.
• Fertilizer Application: Almost half (49%) of the respondents reported employing fall applications of anhydrous, with an impressive 97% of producers using inhibitors to reduce the risk of nutrient leaching.
The Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy (NLRS) sets ambitious goals to reduce nitrate-nitrogen loss by 15% and total phosphorus loss by 25% into Illinois waterways by 2025. The survey results demonstrate that voluntary efforts within the agricultural community are contributing to progress toward these targets.
However, experts emphasize the need for accelerated adoption of NLRS practices to meet the established goals effectively. Collecting consistent data in the years ahead will be essential for obtaining a comprehensive understanding of practices across different regions of the state.
The Illinois Ag Retail Survey represents a crucial step in monitoring nutrient management practices and gauging progress towards fulfilling the state's NLRS objectives. While the results indicate farmers are making commendable progress, there is recognition that ongoing efforts are required to continue advancing sustainable agriculture practices.
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Categories: Illinois, Business