Review of the latest research on corn nitrogen fertilizer. Specifically covering the long-term impact of nitrogen fertilizer rates on soil health and new technologies to better predict nitrogen fertilizer requirements in corn. Joshua Nasielski, University of Guelph
The document discusses nitrogen management for corn using the Illinois Soil Nitrogen Test (ISNT). It summarizes that the ISNT measures potentially available nitrogen released from soil organic matter. On-farm trials showed that using ISNT recommendations can save money while maintaining high yields. Soil testing costs $8.30-$15 per acre and provides nitrogen rate recommendations that can be used for 6-8 years to optimize nitrogen application and profits.
This document discusses research on applying nitrogen late in the corn growing season. It provides data from studies in Ontario, Indiana, Illinois, and Eastern Ontario showing that late season nitrogen applications around tasseling (VT) generally do not significantly increase yields compared to earlier applications, but can provide benefits under certain conditions like wet weather. Fine-tuning late nitrogen with placement, products to reduce losses, soil testing, and precision agriculture is discussed. The conclusion is that applying nitrogen by the VT stage is best to reduce losses, and rate should be adjusted based on weather, soils and crop status.
Development and application of core attributes, A first approximation nation...Richard Thackway
Revegetation, including restoration and rehabilitation, is a major public-private strategy to protect natural resources, repair stressed ecosystems and habitats and is essential for maintaining sustainable production and delivery of ecosystem services. Revegetation and rehabilitation activities are funded via public or private investment, or a combination of both, at national, state and regional levels. A capacity to routinely track changes and trends in revegetation type, extent and condition at a national level has lagged behind considerable investments over several decades in on-ground strategic revegetation activities and changes in land management practices. The extent of revegetation may be derived from multiple sources including: regional surveys, remote sensing, catchment-based data and site-based inventory. States and territories use a range of methods to record and report site and landscape scale revegetation extent. Despite the development and endorsement of national standards for the tracking changes in the type, extent and condition of revegetation, these standards have not been systematically or comprehensively adopted at regional, state and national levels. The national standard was used to report on the extent of national revegetation using the best available regional and national scale data and information; the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Agricultural Census and the National Carbon Accounting System (NCAS). This approach provides a first approximation of changes in the extent of revegetation or rehabilitated land in Australia. Systematic and comprehensive monitoring and reporting of revegetation extent at site and landscape scales are critical for consistently evaluating successes of revegetation outcomes. Improved accuracy of reports would be achieved by using the national standard.
The document summarizes several greenhouse and field trials testing different fertilization treatments on Nordmann and Noble fir trees. In the greenhouse trials, soil-applied controlled release fertilizer was found to be sufficient, and excluding foliar fertilizer made little difference. Late season soil applications provided a modest increase in foliar nitrogen levels but no visible growth benefits. Field trials showed no apparent benefits from foliar phosphorus and potassium applications, and soil variations led to inconsistent foliar nitrogen levels between sites. The results suggest that foliar fertilization is not needed for fir trees as soil-applied fertilizer alone is sufficient.
Interface between mitigation and adaptation in primary industries. Richard Ec...Joanna Hicks
This document summarizes a workshop on the interface between climate change mitigation and adaptation in primary industries. It provides background on potential global and local conflicts and synergies. Examples of conflicts include building soil carbon competing with productive soils, and bioenergy feedstocks competing with food production. Examples of synergies include reducing emissions improving efficiency, and adaptation practices like minimum tillage increasing carbon storage. The workshop aims to identify key conflicts and synergies to maximize co-benefits between mitigation and adaptation strategies.
This document summarizes a presentation on corn nitrogen management strategies. It discusses determining the optimal nitrogen rate, different nitrogen forms and application timings, and the goal of improving nitrogen use efficiency. The presentation reviews data from nitrogen response trials evaluating the effects of nitrogen rate, split applications of nitrogen at different growth stages, and various nitrogen formulations. The results generally show that split applications do not consistently increase yields or profits compared to a single application at planting. Improving nitrogen use efficiency is a worthy goal, but the optimal strategy is applying the rate that maximizes economic return rather than simply minimizing nitrogen used per bushel.
This document summarizes the findings of long-term crop rotation studies conducted at the University of Guelph's Elora and Ridgetown research stations. The summary discusses how more diverse crop rotations, including the addition of small grains and cover crops, can lead to higher and more stable corn and soybean yields, reduced nitrogen fertilizer requirements for corn, and improved soil quality over time compared to continuous corn-soybean rotations. More diverse rotations were also found to potentially improve profits from crop production and make fields more resilient to weather extremes in the future. The document concludes by questioning how crop rotation diversity may further impact yields and soils under increasing weather variability.
The document summarizes a seminar on natural capital accounting. It includes an agenda with presentations on natural capital accounting in the UK by Emily Connors of ONS, measuring natural capital in woodlands by Miranda Winram of Forest Enterprise, and actual and potential uses of natural capital accounts by Nick Barter of Defra. The seminar aims to discuss natural capital accounting work and priorities in the UK.
The document discusses nitrogen management for corn using the Illinois Soil Nitrogen Test (ISNT). It summarizes that the ISNT measures potentially available nitrogen released from soil organic matter. On-farm trials showed that using ISNT recommendations can save money while maintaining high yields. Soil testing costs $8.30-$15 per acre and provides nitrogen rate recommendations that can be used for 6-8 years to optimize nitrogen application and profits.
This document discusses research on applying nitrogen late in the corn growing season. It provides data from studies in Ontario, Indiana, Illinois, and Eastern Ontario showing that late season nitrogen applications around tasseling (VT) generally do not significantly increase yields compared to earlier applications, but can provide benefits under certain conditions like wet weather. Fine-tuning late nitrogen with placement, products to reduce losses, soil testing, and precision agriculture is discussed. The conclusion is that applying nitrogen by the VT stage is best to reduce losses, and rate should be adjusted based on weather, soils and crop status.
Development and application of core attributes, A first approximation nation...Richard Thackway
Revegetation, including restoration and rehabilitation, is a major public-private strategy to protect natural resources, repair stressed ecosystems and habitats and is essential for maintaining sustainable production and delivery of ecosystem services. Revegetation and rehabilitation activities are funded via public or private investment, or a combination of both, at national, state and regional levels. A capacity to routinely track changes and trends in revegetation type, extent and condition at a national level has lagged behind considerable investments over several decades in on-ground strategic revegetation activities and changes in land management practices. The extent of revegetation may be derived from multiple sources including: regional surveys, remote sensing, catchment-based data and site-based inventory. States and territories use a range of methods to record and report site and landscape scale revegetation extent. Despite the development and endorsement of national standards for the tracking changes in the type, extent and condition of revegetation, these standards have not been systematically or comprehensively adopted at regional, state and national levels. The national standard was used to report on the extent of national revegetation using the best available regional and national scale data and information; the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Agricultural Census and the National Carbon Accounting System (NCAS). This approach provides a first approximation of changes in the extent of revegetation or rehabilitated land in Australia. Systematic and comprehensive monitoring and reporting of revegetation extent at site and landscape scales are critical for consistently evaluating successes of revegetation outcomes. Improved accuracy of reports would be achieved by using the national standard.
The document summarizes several greenhouse and field trials testing different fertilization treatments on Nordmann and Noble fir trees. In the greenhouse trials, soil-applied controlled release fertilizer was found to be sufficient, and excluding foliar fertilizer made little difference. Late season soil applications provided a modest increase in foliar nitrogen levels but no visible growth benefits. Field trials showed no apparent benefits from foliar phosphorus and potassium applications, and soil variations led to inconsistent foliar nitrogen levels between sites. The results suggest that foliar fertilization is not needed for fir trees as soil-applied fertilizer alone is sufficient.
Interface between mitigation and adaptation in primary industries. Richard Ec...Joanna Hicks
This document summarizes a workshop on the interface between climate change mitigation and adaptation in primary industries. It provides background on potential global and local conflicts and synergies. Examples of conflicts include building soil carbon competing with productive soils, and bioenergy feedstocks competing with food production. Examples of synergies include reducing emissions improving efficiency, and adaptation practices like minimum tillage increasing carbon storage. The workshop aims to identify key conflicts and synergies to maximize co-benefits between mitigation and adaptation strategies.
This document summarizes a presentation on corn nitrogen management strategies. It discusses determining the optimal nitrogen rate, different nitrogen forms and application timings, and the goal of improving nitrogen use efficiency. The presentation reviews data from nitrogen response trials evaluating the effects of nitrogen rate, split applications of nitrogen at different growth stages, and various nitrogen formulations. The results generally show that split applications do not consistently increase yields or profits compared to a single application at planting. Improving nitrogen use efficiency is a worthy goal, but the optimal strategy is applying the rate that maximizes economic return rather than simply minimizing nitrogen used per bushel.
This document summarizes the findings of long-term crop rotation studies conducted at the University of Guelph's Elora and Ridgetown research stations. The summary discusses how more diverse crop rotations, including the addition of small grains and cover crops, can lead to higher and more stable corn and soybean yields, reduced nitrogen fertilizer requirements for corn, and improved soil quality over time compared to continuous corn-soybean rotations. More diverse rotations were also found to potentially improve profits from crop production and make fields more resilient to weather extremes in the future. The document concludes by questioning how crop rotation diversity may further impact yields and soils under increasing weather variability.
The document summarizes a seminar on natural capital accounting. It includes an agenda with presentations on natural capital accounting in the UK by Emily Connors of ONS, measuring natural capital in woodlands by Miranda Winram of Forest Enterprise, and actual and potential uses of natural capital accounts by Nick Barter of Defra. The seminar aims to discuss natural capital accounting work and priorities in the UK.
Dr. Jim Camberato - Nitrogen Management: We Aren't There YetJohn Blue
Nitrogen Management: We Aren't There Yet - Dr. Jim Camberato, Purdue University, from the 2020 Conservation Tillage and Technology Conference, held March 3-4, 2020, Ada, OH, USA.
Dr. Newell Kitchen - Tools For Managing NitrogenJohn Blue
Tools For Managing Nitrogen - Dr. Newell Kitchen, USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), from the 2018 Conservation Tillage and Technology Conference, March 6 - 7, Ada, OH, USA.
More presentations at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZBwPfKdlk4SB63zZy16kyA
This document summarizes a precision agriculture project that validated prescription maps for variable rate seeding and fertilizer application. The project involved collecting yield data and soil samples from fields to create data layers and prescription maps delineating management zones. Strip trials within the zones then tested different seeding and fertilizer rates, finding that higher than needed rates did not increase yields or profits. The project aims to help farmers optimize input costs through site-specific management informed by agronomic validation and data analysis.
This document summarizes a study on farmer networks and nitrogen management trials in North Carolina corn and wheat crops. The study recruited 91 farmers across 23 counties to conduct 272 strip trials comparing the farmer's standard nitrogen rate to +/- 25% rates. Soil tests found average pH and nutrient levels. For corn, the farmer rate was significantly higher than the agronomic optimum rate in most years, though yields were only slightly higher. Partial nitrogen balances suggested excessive nitrogen was rare. For wheat, the farmer and optimum rates were not significantly different. The study concluded farmers matched wheat nitrogen needs but some corn farmers could reduce rates based on the realistic yield database rates. Feedback of results to farmers was less effective than expected.
This document describes the development of a reactive nitrogen model for Canadian agricultural lands. The model accounts for nitrogen inputs like fertilizer and biological fixation by legumes, and outputs like food and feed crops harvested, nitrogen lost through leaching and greenhouse gases, and residual soil nitrogen. The model was applied at various geographic scales within Canada from 1981-2011. Results show nitrogen inputs and outputs are balanced each year, and nitrogen leaching increased from 1981-2001 before declining from 2001-2011. The model provides insights into nitrogen flows and trends over time on Canadian farmlands.
Improving the quantification of agricultural emissions in low-income countries. WATCH LIVE on WEDNESDAY 4 DECEMBER 14:30 CET: http://ccafs.cgiar.org/videostream
Field to Market is a collaborative group that brings together agricultural stakeholders to develop sustainability metrics. It has developed indicators to measure trends in land use, soil conservation, energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and other areas. Analysis shows that while U.S. soybean production has become more efficient over time in these areas on a per-bushel basis, total environmental impacts have increased due to rising yields and production. The group provides tools like the Fieldprint Calculator to help farmers evaluate their sustainability performance and identify improvement opportunities.
This paper models the profitability of fertilizer use for maize farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. It uses yield trial and soil data to estimate yield responses to fertilizer across different soil and climate conditions. It then simulates profitability over 1,000 years using historical weather and price data to identify areas where fertilizer use is robustly profitable in at least 70% of years. The analysis finds great spatial variation in yield responses and profitability. Soil pH has the largest effect on both, suggesting soil amendments could improve fertilizer adoption more than subsidies which are most effective in already profitable areas.
Nick Willenbrock, DoW CoP Manager at CL:AIRE
Currently Nicholas leads the delivery of industry initiatives, produces industry guidance, organising workshops and develops and delivers training (online and classroom based). Most notably this includes the CL:AIRE Definition of Waste Development Industry Code of Practice (DoW CoP) which he has managed since its formation and launch in 2008 and has allowed the successful reuse of over 130,000,000m3 of excavated materials. His work includes the formation and oversight of CL:AIRE Auditing & Compliance team which carries out continuous review of DoW CoP projects.
He is responsible for the joint delivery of the ReCon Soil research project - Reconstructed Soils from Waste. The ReCon Soil project which is funded by the European Regional Development Fund via the Interreg France (Channel) England (FCE) Programme.
This document summarizes a study on the viability of growing shrub willow as a bioenergy buffer crop on agricultural fields in the US Midwest to improve sustainability. Key findings include that shrub willow buffers substantially improved nitrogen use efficiency, produced comparable biomass yields to unfertilized monocultures, improved water quality by reducing soil and nitrogen losses, and provided other ecosystem services. However, shrub willow did not provide positive net revenue due to high land rental costs. It could be more economically competitive than corn in marginal soils or when considering the monetary value of ecosystem services provided. While not financially viable on its own currently, integrating shrub willow buffers shows potential to improve the environmental sustainability of agroecos
Sensor-based nitrogen management techniques can help reduce nitrogen usage and costs for cotton farmers. The document outlines a study in Coastal Plain soils that found sensor-based methods reduced nitrogen application by 15-100 lbs/acre for cotton compared to farmer practices, saving $9-60/acre. Soil electrical conductivity mapping and plant nitrogen rich strips were used to identify management zones. Mid-season plant NDVI readings from sensors were calculated in an algorithm to determine variable-rate nitrogen applications, accounting for soil amendments and previous crops. Results showed no yield differences between farmer practices and sensor methods, indicating potential for sensor technology to cut nitrogen costs for cotton growers.
This document summarizes a study on the potential impacts of climate change on land use in Laos. It finds that temperatures in Laos increased over the 20th century, especially in the south, and are projected to continue rising substantially by 2020 and 2050 according to climate models. Rainfall trends are less clear but also appear to be changing. These climate shifts could impact suitable areas for crops like sugarcane and coffee. Analysis of satellite data from 2000 to 2009 detected land use and vegetation changes across the country. The study recommends more integrated and resilient farming systems to prepare for a hotter, drier future from climate change.
This project combines field experiments and climate modeling to evaluate nitrogen management strategies for corn production. Field experiments at multiple locations are testing different nitrogen application timings, rates, and methods. Preliminary results show that applying nitrogen at the V7 growth stage maintains yield while reducing nitrous oxide emissions and nitrate loss compared to pre-plant application. Climate modeling calibrated with field data predicts that split or delayed nitrogen application generally lowers emissions but the effect varies depending on weather and soil type. The overall goal is to understand how nitrogen management can improve nitrogen use efficiency and environmental performance under current and future climates.
This document summarizes a presentation on agricultural remote sensing. It discusses how satellite and aircraft imagery can provide spatially complete information on large or inaccessible regions. Such imagery can support activities like land management, biomass estimation and monitoring. The document highlights several current remote sensing activities by AAFC, including near-real-time soil moisture and crop condition mapping using satellite data. It also discusses how remote sensing combined with ground data can help assess crop rotations and nitrogen needs. Overall, the document promotes the use of remote sensing to make better agricultural management decisions.
Agriculture Extension and Advisory Services under the New Normal of Climate ...World Agroforestry (ICRAF)
In the years to come climate change, coupled with population growth, energy and natural resource depletion, will increasingly challenge our continued ability to feed ourselves. As we move forward, persistent problems, past failures and new challenges within Extension change agents and advisory service (EAS) provisioning have the potential to converge in a perfect storm as the scramble to adapt to the new normal of life under climate change intensifies. This presentation outlines the nature of the challenges, identifies past and present points of successful EAS engagement and outlines necessary areas of preparation
Agriculture Extension and Advisory Services under the New Normal of Climate ...World Agroforestry (ICRAF)
This document summarizes the challenges facing agriculture under climate change and opportunities for agricultural extension services. It discusses trends showing rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and more frequent extreme weather. This "new normal" will disrupt agriculture and require adaptations. Extension services need to help farmers mitigate emissions and adapt practices, focusing on building resilience. Prospects include collaborating with researchers, adopting multi-benefit practices, enhancing technology transfer, upgrading training, and balancing policies to support smallholders under climate change.
Dr. Jim Camberato - Nitrogen Management: We Aren't There YetJohn Blue
Nitrogen Management: We Aren't There Yet - Dr. Jim Camberato, Purdue University, from the 2020 Conservation Tillage and Technology Conference, held March 3-4, 2020, Ada, OH, USA.
Dr. Newell Kitchen - Tools For Managing NitrogenJohn Blue
Tools For Managing Nitrogen - Dr. Newell Kitchen, USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), from the 2018 Conservation Tillage and Technology Conference, March 6 - 7, Ada, OH, USA.
More presentations at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZBwPfKdlk4SB63zZy16kyA
This document summarizes a precision agriculture project that validated prescription maps for variable rate seeding and fertilizer application. The project involved collecting yield data and soil samples from fields to create data layers and prescription maps delineating management zones. Strip trials within the zones then tested different seeding and fertilizer rates, finding that higher than needed rates did not increase yields or profits. The project aims to help farmers optimize input costs through site-specific management informed by agronomic validation and data analysis.
This document summarizes a study on farmer networks and nitrogen management trials in North Carolina corn and wheat crops. The study recruited 91 farmers across 23 counties to conduct 272 strip trials comparing the farmer's standard nitrogen rate to +/- 25% rates. Soil tests found average pH and nutrient levels. For corn, the farmer rate was significantly higher than the agronomic optimum rate in most years, though yields were only slightly higher. Partial nitrogen balances suggested excessive nitrogen was rare. For wheat, the farmer and optimum rates were not significantly different. The study concluded farmers matched wheat nitrogen needs but some corn farmers could reduce rates based on the realistic yield database rates. Feedback of results to farmers was less effective than expected.
This document describes the development of a reactive nitrogen model for Canadian agricultural lands. The model accounts for nitrogen inputs like fertilizer and biological fixation by legumes, and outputs like food and feed crops harvested, nitrogen lost through leaching and greenhouse gases, and residual soil nitrogen. The model was applied at various geographic scales within Canada from 1981-2011. Results show nitrogen inputs and outputs are balanced each year, and nitrogen leaching increased from 1981-2001 before declining from 2001-2011. The model provides insights into nitrogen flows and trends over time on Canadian farmlands.
Improving the quantification of agricultural emissions in low-income countries. WATCH LIVE on WEDNESDAY 4 DECEMBER 14:30 CET: http://ccafs.cgiar.org/videostream
Field to Market is a collaborative group that brings together agricultural stakeholders to develop sustainability metrics. It has developed indicators to measure trends in land use, soil conservation, energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and other areas. Analysis shows that while U.S. soybean production has become more efficient over time in these areas on a per-bushel basis, total environmental impacts have increased due to rising yields and production. The group provides tools like the Fieldprint Calculator to help farmers evaluate their sustainability performance and identify improvement opportunities.
This paper models the profitability of fertilizer use for maize farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. It uses yield trial and soil data to estimate yield responses to fertilizer across different soil and climate conditions. It then simulates profitability over 1,000 years using historical weather and price data to identify areas where fertilizer use is robustly profitable in at least 70% of years. The analysis finds great spatial variation in yield responses and profitability. Soil pH has the largest effect on both, suggesting soil amendments could improve fertilizer adoption more than subsidies which are most effective in already profitable areas.
Nick Willenbrock, DoW CoP Manager at CL:AIRE
Currently Nicholas leads the delivery of industry initiatives, produces industry guidance, organising workshops and develops and delivers training (online and classroom based). Most notably this includes the CL:AIRE Definition of Waste Development Industry Code of Practice (DoW CoP) which he has managed since its formation and launch in 2008 and has allowed the successful reuse of over 130,000,000m3 of excavated materials. His work includes the formation and oversight of CL:AIRE Auditing & Compliance team which carries out continuous review of DoW CoP projects.
He is responsible for the joint delivery of the ReCon Soil research project - Reconstructed Soils from Waste. The ReCon Soil project which is funded by the European Regional Development Fund via the Interreg France (Channel) England (FCE) Programme.
This document summarizes a study on the viability of growing shrub willow as a bioenergy buffer crop on agricultural fields in the US Midwest to improve sustainability. Key findings include that shrub willow buffers substantially improved nitrogen use efficiency, produced comparable biomass yields to unfertilized monocultures, improved water quality by reducing soil and nitrogen losses, and provided other ecosystem services. However, shrub willow did not provide positive net revenue due to high land rental costs. It could be more economically competitive than corn in marginal soils or when considering the monetary value of ecosystem services provided. While not financially viable on its own currently, integrating shrub willow buffers shows potential to improve the environmental sustainability of agroecos
Sensor-based nitrogen management techniques can help reduce nitrogen usage and costs for cotton farmers. The document outlines a study in Coastal Plain soils that found sensor-based methods reduced nitrogen application by 15-100 lbs/acre for cotton compared to farmer practices, saving $9-60/acre. Soil electrical conductivity mapping and plant nitrogen rich strips were used to identify management zones. Mid-season plant NDVI readings from sensors were calculated in an algorithm to determine variable-rate nitrogen applications, accounting for soil amendments and previous crops. Results showed no yield differences between farmer practices and sensor methods, indicating potential for sensor technology to cut nitrogen costs for cotton growers.
This document summarizes a study on the potential impacts of climate change on land use in Laos. It finds that temperatures in Laos increased over the 20th century, especially in the south, and are projected to continue rising substantially by 2020 and 2050 according to climate models. Rainfall trends are less clear but also appear to be changing. These climate shifts could impact suitable areas for crops like sugarcane and coffee. Analysis of satellite data from 2000 to 2009 detected land use and vegetation changes across the country. The study recommends more integrated and resilient farming systems to prepare for a hotter, drier future from climate change.
This project combines field experiments and climate modeling to evaluate nitrogen management strategies for corn production. Field experiments at multiple locations are testing different nitrogen application timings, rates, and methods. Preliminary results show that applying nitrogen at the V7 growth stage maintains yield while reducing nitrous oxide emissions and nitrate loss compared to pre-plant application. Climate modeling calibrated with field data predicts that split or delayed nitrogen application generally lowers emissions but the effect varies depending on weather and soil type. The overall goal is to understand how nitrogen management can improve nitrogen use efficiency and environmental performance under current and future climates.
This document summarizes a presentation on agricultural remote sensing. It discusses how satellite and aircraft imagery can provide spatially complete information on large or inaccessible regions. Such imagery can support activities like land management, biomass estimation and monitoring. The document highlights several current remote sensing activities by AAFC, including near-real-time soil moisture and crop condition mapping using satellite data. It also discusses how remote sensing combined with ground data can help assess crop rotations and nitrogen needs. Overall, the document promotes the use of remote sensing to make better agricultural management decisions.
Agriculture Extension and Advisory Services under the New Normal of Climate ...World Agroforestry (ICRAF)
In the years to come climate change, coupled with population growth, energy and natural resource depletion, will increasingly challenge our continued ability to feed ourselves. As we move forward, persistent problems, past failures and new challenges within Extension change agents and advisory service (EAS) provisioning have the potential to converge in a perfect storm as the scramble to adapt to the new normal of life under climate change intensifies. This presentation outlines the nature of the challenges, identifies past and present points of successful EAS engagement and outlines necessary areas of preparation
Agriculture Extension and Advisory Services under the New Normal of Climate ...World Agroforestry (ICRAF)
This document summarizes the challenges facing agriculture under climate change and opportunities for agricultural extension services. It discusses trends showing rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and more frequent extreme weather. This "new normal" will disrupt agriculture and require adaptations. Extension services need to help farmers mitigate emissions and adapt practices, focusing on building resilience. Prospects include collaborating with researchers, adopting multi-benefit practices, enhancing technology transfer, upgrading training, and balancing policies to support smallholders under climate change.
Steve Groff has been a pioneer in no-till and cover cropping for over 30 years. He began no-tilling in 1982 and planting green in 1984. Through improved soil management practices like interseeding cover crops and planting green, Groff has increased the organic matter of his soils from 2.0% to 5.5% over 30 years. He advocates treating cover crops like cash crops by selecting diverse species mixtures and terminating them at the right time to maximize soil health and nutrient cycling benefits. Groff's experience demonstrates how cover cropping can improve soils and farm profitability over the long term.
The Ontario Bean Growers board is here for you! Come learn about OBG llllllactivities and project investments and hear from a dry bean farmer about tips on a successful harvest.Jennifer Mitchell, Ontario Bean Growers; Brendan Louwagie, dry bean grower and Thompsons Limited agronomist, Meghan Moran, OMAFRA Canola & Edible Bean Specialist
The document discusses crop production and markets for corn, soybeans, wheat, and canola in the United States, Canada, and globally. Some key points:
- US corn production in 2020 is estimated to be the largest since 2016 at 94.1 million acres planted.
- Corn futures prices are expected to trade based on expectations of a large US crop until something changes that outlook.
- Nearly 50% of the global soybean supply is consumed in China, but US soybeans currently face a 25% tariff, reducing Chinese imports.
- Only about 12% of North American wheat is soft red wheat, the type often traded, so wheat news does not always strongly impact cash bids.
- In Ontario
This document discusses various topics related to soil compaction from agricultural equipment, including:
- Definitions of soil compaction and the factors that influence it
- Methods for reducing compaction, such as improving soil quality, avoiding wet soils, using larger tires with lower pressure
- How compaction affects soils and crop growth over time
- Measurements of load distribution in soils from different tires and inflation pressures
- Interpreting information provided on tire sidewalls
The document discusses the principles and benefits of precision agriculture. It describes defining soil zones using layers of data on yield, weather, and management. Inputs like soil testing and fertility are tailored to each zone. Variable-rate technology allows applying inputs like seed or fertilizer based on zone needs. Precision agronomy is evaluated by measuring success factors like yield and economics over multiple years, finding improved and more consistent results compared to average agronomy.
Advanced cover cropping strategies for specific goals and how to evaluate them. Grower Panel: Dan Petker, Petker Farms and Rick Kootstra, Kootstra Farms
Advanced cover cropping strategies for specific goals and how to evaluate them. Grower Panel: Dan Petker, Petker Farms and Rick Kootstra, Kootstra Farms
Stuart Adams operates a 2500 acre farm in Quebec and is looking to implement controlled traffic farming (CTF) to improve soil health and farming efficiency. He has experienced issues with soil compaction and seen yield benefits from reduced compaction. CTF will create permanent traffic lanes to minimize compaction between rows. Implementation will be gradual due to equipment and capital costs as well as challenging field conditions and the need for ongoing drainage work. While technology can help with CTF, seasonal challenges have limited investment and progress will take time given the size of the operation.
From compaction to tile spacing, learn the many factors
that determine the best drainage system for profit and environmental benefit. Peter Johnson, RealAgriculture & Jesse Tait, Tait Farm Drainage
The document provides an overview and outlook of commodity markets in 2020, with a focus on US and Canadian/Ontario market situations and projections. It summarizes key data on crop and livestock production, exports, prices, and supply/demand balances for major commodities like corn, soybeans, beef, and pork in the US and Ontario from 2007-2019. Projections show stable-to-increasing production and exports for most commodities in North America through 2021.
1) The 2019 growing season in Ontario was one of the wettest on record, resulting in hundreds of thousands of acres left unseeded or reseeded for soybeans.
2) County-level soybean yield statistics for 2019 show yields ranging from 25 to 56 bushels per acre depending on the county, with an overall Ontario yield of 45 bushels per acre.
3) Research studies showed that while planting soybeans in early June rather than mid-May resulted in some yield loss, adapting maturity dates and varieties can help mitigate these delays. Foliar fertilizers and inoculants did not increase yields.
Basic to advanced approaches to reducing traffic compaction in the field. Grower Panel: Warren Schneckenburger, Cedar Lodge Farms; Stuart Adams, Continuum Textiles & Tony Balkwill, Nithfield Advanced Agronomy
The behind the scenes of today’s satellite imagery technology and what it can do for your farm. Leander Campbell, AAFC Ottawa, Chris Olbach, Corteva Agriscience and Alex Whitley, Taranis
From fertilizer management to coulters versus shanks, the “how to” from growers making it work! Ben Rosser, OMAFRA Panel: Warren Schneckenburger and Mike Schouten
Heritage Conservation.Strategies and Options for Preserving India HeritageJIT KUMAR GUPTA
Presentation looks at the role , relevance and importance of built and natural heritage, issues faced by heritage in the Indian context and options which can be leveraged to preserve and conserve the heritage.It also lists the challenges faced by the heritage due to rapid urbanisation, land speculation and commercialisation in the urban areas. In addition, ppt lays down the roadmap for the preservation, conservation and making value addition to the available heritage by making it integral part of the planning , designing and management of the human settlements.
2. When do we think the frog is deaf…
…when discussing MERN
3. University of Minnesota, Institute on the Environment
Fertilizer Environmental Performance
Benchmarks (USA, Europe)
• N Balance (N applied – N removed in grain)
• 50-70 kg N ha-1
• N surplus (N applied – N uptake)
• 50 kg N ha-1
When MERN is applied, all benchmarks are met or exceeded
(8-year study at Elora, ON)
(Nasielski et al. 2020)
4. • Elora, ON (silt loam)
• Starting SOM = ~4.0%
• Continuous corn
• Typical seeding rate, tillage, variety, etc.
• 6 long-term N rates:
• (30, 58, 87, 145, 208, 260 kg-N ha-1)
After 10 years, what happens to soil health?
(Allison Bailey, M.Sc student)
Effect of N rates on soil
organic matter (10-year study; 2009-2018)
5. Effect of long-term N rate on soil organic
carbon (2009-2018) (Allison Bailey, M.Sc research)
30 58 87 145 207 260
Applied N
(kg N ha-1)
Percent
change
in SOM
(top 20cm)
-7% -2% -5% +4% +6% +9%
Trend is clear!
MERN
6. Optimal N rate range is 140-260 kg N/ha! (same soil,
same management, same hybrid!)
Year-to-year variation in MERN within a field (2009-2018)
7. Spatial variation in MERN (2019 Eastern Ontario)
(Holly Byker and Scott Banks)
• Winchester: 108 lbs N ac-1
• Morrisburg: 123 lbs N ac-1
• North Gower: 148 lbs N ac-1
8. 6 – Field Factors
Soil Health
Soil Drainage
Water Holding Capacity
1 – Plant Factors
Yield Expectation
Plant Tissue N Status
NDVI
2 – Weather Factors
Rainfall
Temperature
Crop Heat Units
3 – Cropping System
Factors
Previous Crop
Tillage System
Manure Additions
4 – Soil Factors
Soil Texture
Soil Organic Matter
Soil N mineralization
5 – Nitrogen Factors
Price of Corn / Nitrogen
Source of Nitrogen
Application Method/Timing
Source: Bill Deen, U of G
Why does MERN vary?
9. Measuring MERN the ‘easy’ way: Delta-Yield
(Ken Janovicek and Bill Deen)
0
50
100
150
200
250
0 50 100 150 200 250
Yield(bu/ac)
Applied N (lbs N/ac)
Delta-Yield
10. Estimating MERN with Delta-Yield (2019)
(Scott Banks)
123 lbs N ac-1
110 lbs N ac-1
155 lbs N ac-1
• Winchester: 108 lbs N ac-1
• Morrisburg: 123 lbs N ac-1
• North Gower: 148 lbs N ac-1
11. The Delta-Yield Calculator (Ken Janovicek and Bill Deen)
• Calibrated using hundreds of Ontario trials, majority on-farm.
• Works pretty well and is being improved
0
50
100
150
200
250
-1 1 3 5 7 9
EconomicNRate(kg-N/ha)
Delta yield (Mg/ha)
N-Rate vs Delta Yield - Calibration
Green… Yellow… Red…
13. Value of estimating MERN: How accurate do we need to
be in N rate estimation to reduce economic risk?
+/- 30 kg N /ha generally gets within $10/ac of max profit
14. Our Hypothesis: Rain makes corn
Can we use in-season rainfall to predict yield and
MERN?
Did not look at fields with manure or red clover
15. When does rain make corn? Evidence from Elora
N rate trial (2009-2018) (Caleb Niemeyer M.Sc thesis, 2019)
Correlation between rainfall during V5 to V12
(approx. June 15 to July 15)
Corn Yield
Optimum N
rate
Rainfall 0.90 0.66
Simple equation using recommended rate (OCNC; gocorn.net) as
base:
• Add ~1 lb N/ac every 1 mm of rainfall between V5-V12
16. Does the rainfall and MERN relationship hold?
(Caleb Niemeyer M.Sc thesis, 2019)
• 22 site-years at Elora
• 27 site-years at Ridgetown
• All rotations represented
• Not including red clover
• No manure
• All loam soils (clay to sandy)
With rainfall adjustment, profit
increased by average of $20/ac
over normal OCNC prediction.
With rainfall adjustment, the
predictive capacity of the OCNC to
estimate actual MERN doubled.
(R2 increase from 0.19 to 0.48)
17. 0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
-40 to -15 -15 to 0 1 to 20 21 to 40 41 to 60 61 to 80 81 to 100 101 to 120
Frequency
Increase in fertilizer return ($/ac) with rainfall adjustment
40% of cases lost money (average loss of -$10/ac)
30% of cases made some money (+$18/ac)
30% of cases made a lot of money (+$75/ac)
Frequency distribution of profit response (n=49)
(Caleb Niemeyer M.Sc thesis (2019)
20. • Elora, 2017, silt loam
• 3.4% SOM
• Image at silking, July 26
21. • Same image but with
NDVI
• Red areas = N stress
22. • Elora, 2017, silt loam
• Image at silking, July 26
• N applied July 15
(V12)
• 230 lbs N/ac
• 10 mm rainfall
(July 15-26)
23. Does N respond to N applied at V12?
(Elora, 2017)
N treatment Grain Yield
(bu/ac)
(+/- SE)
No N at all 109 (± 7)
230 lbs N ac-1 all at V12 202 (± 14)
230 lbs N ac-1 all pre-
plant
211 (± 6)
+100 bushel gain
- 9 bushel penalty
25. N treatment Grain Yield
(bu/ac)
(+/- SE)
No N at all 122 (± 7)
175 lbs N ac-1 all at V13 174 (± 10)
175 lbs N ac-1 all pre-plant 172(± 9)
+52 bushel gain
+ 2 bushel gain
Ben Rosser research at Bornholm (2018)
27. Late N applications: evidence of efficacy
(Fernandez et al. 2019; Mueller et al. 2017; Nasielski et al. 2019; Nasielski et al. 2020)
• Split-N generally does not increase or
decrease yield relative to pre-plant
applications.
• Exception on sandy soils or very
wet springs
• Split-applying N provides small
increase in N recovery efficiency (~5%)
• Benefit of late N is to identify and
react to extreme years when MERN is
high
• Unknown how 4R management influences
efficacy of late N
• Impact of rainfall?
28. • 3 locations
• 4 N rates pre-plant (lbs N ac-1):
• 0, 66, 133, 200
• 2 split-N strategies to account for June
15 to July 15 rainfall:
• 100 lbs N/ac pre-plant + 1 lbs N per 3 mm
• 100 lbs N/ac pre-plant + 1 lbs N per 1 mm
• June 15-July 15 rainfall (60mm) is close to 10-
year average (68mm).
Rainfall adjustments in eastern
Ontario (2019) – Scott Banks with
farmer-cooperators
29. 0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200
0 50 100 150 200 250
Yield(buac-1)
Applied N (lbs N ac-1)
North Gower Field 2019
Actual MERN = 148 lbs N ac-1
Strategy #1 MERN = 130 lbs N ac-1
Producer MERN = 137 lbs N ac-1
Strategy #2 MERN = 160 lbs N ac-1
30. 0
50
100
150
200
250
300
0 50 100 150 200 250
Yield(buac-1)
Applied N (lbs N ac-1)
Winchester Field 2019
Actual MERN = 110 lbs N ac-1
Strategy #1 MERN = 130 lbs N ac-1
Producer MERN = 130 lbs N ac-1
Strategy #2 MERN = 150 lbs N ac-1
31. • Normally 200+ bu/ac field, but late planting this year (May 22)
Morrisburg Field 2019
0
40
80
120
160
200
0 50 100 150 200
Yield(buac-1)
Applied N (lbs N ac-1)
Actual MERN = 116 lbs N ac-1
Strategy #2 MERN = 120 lbs N ac-1
Producer MERN = 90-100 lbs N ac-1
Strategy #2 MERN = 160 lbs N ac-1
32. Economics of N application Morrisburg Field (2019)
Per acre return
to N fertilizer
($ corn – $ fertilizer)
Actual MERN 573
Farmer Estimate 561
Strategy #1 Late N 572
Strategy #2 Late N 547
Assume corn @ $180/ton and N @ 50cents/lb
Within $12/ac
Not a high-yielding year. Would not expect major profit
increase from rainfall adjustment
33. Take Home #1 • MERN:
• Increases soil organic
matter (over time)
• Meets or exceeds
benchmarks of
environmental
performance
• Is profitable (duh!)
34. Take Home #2
• MERN varies from
field-to-field, year-
to-year
• Delta-Yield let’s you
understand how
MERN varies on
YOUR farm
35. Take Home #3
• In 8 out of 10 years, a
properly calibrated N rate
will get you within $10-15
ac-1 of MERN.
• It is the 2 out of 10 years
where MERN is very
different that you need to
pay attention too.
36. Take Home #4 • Mid-season rainfall
adjustments can identify
extreme years.
• We are updating our
simple rainfall
adjustment algorithm
using Bayesian networks
and precision ag. (led by
John Sulik)
Leave you with some actionable advice, based on research done by U of Guelph and OMAFRA in s and Eastern Ontario.
We are talking about N management, and more specifically, identifying, in a given field in a given year, the most profitable rate of nitrogen,
The work I will be presenting stems in part from a trial supported by IPNI
Elora research Station
Each year can generate an N response curve and calculate MERN (Optimal N rate)
MERN varies from….
These interact to determine how variable MERN Is from year-to-year. Now MERN is specific to your field and management style. On a particular field, it will not be the same if someone else was managing it.
I want to suggest that calculating MERN on-farm is the best way to know what is happening in your field, on your farm. What is MERN for your field, how much does it vary from year to year.
Models and precision ag tools, especially if they are calibrated in another region, state, country, province, do not perform very well, as a general rule.
- So calculating actual MERN on farm can be difficult even if you have GPS, RTK and are setup for enhanced learning blocks etx.
This delta yield can do is tell you what you should have applied last year. Not too useful. Although over time it gives important trends. We really want to know how much N to apply this year.
So we wanted to take a stab at it. First we wanted to know, how precise should we be?? We started by analyzing profit response, not yield response.
The red cross is MERN every 10 years, and by definition this maximizes net return. The green interval around MERN.
Our Hypothesis: In cropping systems where yield drives MERN, then MERN can be predicted with weather effects on corn yield
Caleb used his data to come up with a simple equation to incorporate a rainfall adjustment to recommended N rates, which improved their profitability. He took the recommended N rate (OCNC) and added 1 lbs N/ac for every mm of rainfall. This adjustment applies more N than OCNC recommends
Rest of field is well fertilizer, only N stress
Don’t need to apply all N up front, but need to apply before silking.
Split N does reduce the risk of early season N losses, but in Ontario most years don’t induce high N losses from fields.
Late N applications, how dependent are they on timely rainfall
At 200 lb N ac = 140
Producer estimated MERN 90-100 lbs N ac
Actual MERN = 116 lbs N ac
Strategy #1 estimated MERN: 160
Strategy #2 estimated MERN:
At 200 lb N ac = 140
Producer estimated MERN 90-100 lbs N ac
Actual MERN = 116 lbs N ac
Strategy #1 estimated MERN: 160
Strategy #2 estimated MERN:
When your being more aggressive with that nitrogen, you are a bit too high
Figuring out MERN on your farm (field-to-field, year-over-year)
Delta-yield
Precision ag. Tools will need to measure weather up to silking.