Ohio Farm Bureau hosts statewide CAUV update webinar
The Statewide CAUV Update Webinar explained more about the recent changes in CAUV and what could be next for the program. Watch the recording.
Read MoreFour-part series highlights water quality work
This is the first in a four-part series examining the conservation practices of farmers participating in the Blanchard River Demonstration Farms Network. The demo farms project is finding environmental and economic solutions to protect water quality via the right combination of traditional conservation practices and other innovative technologies. As a part of the network, three northwestern Ohio farmers within the Blanchard River Watershed are testing new and standard conservation systems in order to share their findings and experiences with others.
To learn more, visit the demo farms website.
Research being done at the Blanchard River Demonstration Farms and other related sites around the state is helping researchers determine what practices work best for reducing nutrient and sediment loss. Over the last five years, on-farm research has shown that following the 4R approach can help reduce nutrient and sediment loss.
The 4R Nutrient Stewardship principles provide proven best practices for the application of nutrients (commercial or manure) by using the right source of nutrients at the right rate and right time in the right place below the soil surface.
Right Source
To achieve desired yields most efficiently, a nutrient applicator should select a plant-available nutrient source that provides a balanced supply of essential nutrients while considering both naturally available sources and the characteristics of specific products.
How to achieve the Right Source
Coordinate nutrient analyses with soil tests
It is important to collect and test soil samples on a consistent basis. Additionally, a nutrient analysis should be completed on manure farmers plan to apply. The nutrient analysis should then be compared to the soil test results to ensure application of the nutrients a field and crop needs.
How it helps: Coordinating nutrient analyses with soil test results helps reduce the spread of unnecessary nutrients.
Right Rate
Every crop, field and soil has its own unique nutrient needs. When farmers blanket apply nutrients, however, they run the risk of placing too many nutrients in one place and not enough in the other — with the possibility of negative impacts on either the environment or the potential of that crop. Therefore, it’s important to use technology in a way that allows application of the right rate of nutrients for optimal results.
Solution to help achieve Right Rate
Variable or optimum rate application
Variable rate nutrient application allows crop producers to apply different rates of nutrients in different locations across the field, based on soil tests, with the help of precision technology like computers and GPS.
How it helps: Variable rate technology for fertilizer has been used by farmers and applicators for many years. It can improve water quality and plant health, as well as optimize fertilizer inputs. Manure, however, has typically been applied at an even rate across the field. New technology for manure application equipment is changing this practice.
Part 2 features the other 4Rs, Right Time and Right Place in the May/June issue of Our Ohio.
The Statewide CAUV Update Webinar explained more about the recent changes in CAUV and what could be next for the program. Watch the recording.
Read MoreThe guide includes a farm driver checklist, overview of state and federal regulations and exemptions, CDL qualifications and more.
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Scholarships are available to students pursuing degrees in agriculture-related fields or that support the agriculture industry.
Read MoreHundreds of Ohio businesses and sole proprietors are raving about Ohio Farm Bureau’s Health Benefits plan with lower, predictable costs and easy enrollment and administration options.
Read MoreAgriPOWER Class XIV spent a few days in March in Medina and Wayne counties learning more about northern Ohio agriculture from leaders in Ohio Farm Bureau.
Read MoreLeading Ohio Farm Bureau’s 2024 YAP State Committee are Luke and Kayla Durbin of Coshocton County, Tim and Sarah Terrill of Montgomery County and Carly Fitz of Perry County.
Read MoreFarming is a very rewarding occupation, but it can come with hazardous territory if there are not proper training protocols in place.
Read MoreOhio Farm Bureau’s farmer leaders plus members of the media and select Farm Bureau staff are at the nation’s capital March. 12-14, 2024 for the annual County Presidents Trip to Washington, D.C.
Read MoreThe SEC voted on its final climate disclosure rule and removed the Scope 3 reporting requirement, which would have required public companies to report the greenhouse gas emissions of their supply chain.
Read MoreThis position is created for an active Young Ag Professional member who has a passion for fundraising and is interested in further developing their leadership skills. Apply by May 3.
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