How can farmers ensure that their nutrient management practices have minimal environmental impact?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Producers can ensure that their nutrient management practices have minimal environmental impact by using the following practices:
1 . Test soil regularly and following fertilizer recommendations precisely to avoid unnecessary over-application of nutrients. All states provide recommendations for economically optimum rates of fertilizer to apply to crops.
2 . Test manure before application and apply only at appropriate rates.
3 . Time fertilizer and manure application to crop needs. Nutrients not used by the crop are in danger of being lost to the environment. Many crops need the most nutrients 1 month after planting.
4 . Use the most efficient method of fertilizer application. For example, manure that is broadcast provides less nitrogen than injected manure because some of the nitrogen volatilizes into the air.
5 . Combine nutrient management with soil conservation management. Reducing soil erosion will help retain nutrients in the field.
6 . Incorporate green manures and perennials into rotations.