What is Nutrient Management Planning?
A Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) is a tool to assess and plan how to get the most out of fertilizing fields; plans typically include timing of application, the amount of fertilizer or organic material to apply, and the best way to apply. These recommendations are based on information including; soil tests, previous fertilization, and variety of crops planted. Plans are written to meet the farmers needs and optimize crop productivity while minimizing impacts to the environment.
Benefits
NM Planning Helps Maintain Optimal Growth Conditions for Crops
NMP’s provide farmers with information on how, when, and where to apply fertilizer, manure, or biosolids to best meet crop nutrient needs without over application. Providing nutrients in this manner can increase overall crop yields by providing exact nutrient needs at the proper time.
NM Planning Reduces Fertilizer needs and Contamination of Waterways
NM planning can reduce excess nutrients applied to cropland which could save money and prevent nutrients not used by crops from runoff into nearby waterways. Reducing excess nutrient runoff into streams helps reduce algal blooms which harm water quality and aquatic life. NMP’s also incorporate the use of manures which farmers can supplement from other areas of their operation (waste facilities or chicken coops).
NM Planning Reduces Fertilizer needs and Contamination of Waterways
NM planning can reduce excess nutrients applied to cropland which could save money and prevent nutrients not used by crops from runoff into nearby waterways. Reducing excess nutrient runoff into streams helps reduce algal blooms which harm water quality and aquatic life. NMP’s also incorporate the use of manures which farmers can supplement from other areas of their operation (waste facilities or chicken coops).
Resources
Agronomy Handbook – Nutrient Management
This publication discusses the purpose and components of nutrient management planning.
