2011 Code of Practice for Nitrogen Fertilization
Ag suppliers recommit to Code of Practice for Nitrogen Fertilization - 10/03/2011
Purpose: To establish reasonable and practicable guidelines for nitrogen fertilization applications to reduce nitrate loss from farm fields entering the Raccoon & Des Moines Rivers and their tributaries.
Why: Effective management of nutrients on farms in the watersheds is one of the keys to enhancing both environmental quality and profitable crop production. The impact from agricultural application of nitrogen on receiving water resources is gaining increased attention from local, regional and national levels. This Code of Practice provides information about practice guidelines adopted by the ACWA members as a condition of membership.
Application
Guidelines
- A nutrient budget for N, P, & K shall be developed that considers all potential sources of nutrients including manure, legumes, etc. Nutrient recommendations shall be based on current soil test results, realistic yield goals, environmental impact, and producer management capabilities.
- Use the standardized county temperature and forecast maps as part of the decision-making process for fall fertilizer application.
- Delay fall anhydrous applications without a nitrification inhibitor until soil temperatures are 50° F, trending lower. Notify Association office of start of application for accountability documentation by email record to maryw@associationinsight.com.
- Encourage use of other nutrient management technologies such as stabilizers, slow release fertilizers, incorporation or injection, soil nitrate testing, and other technologies that minimize transport to surface or ground water resources.
- If producer is participating with USDA Conservation Programs additional considerations for producer conformance with NRCS 590 Nutrient Management standard shall be followed. For guidance and requirements see standard.
- Encourage use of other supporting practices where feasible:
- Tile line Denitrification bioreactor
- Constructed wetland
- Conservation stream buffer
- Fall cover cropping system
Download this code of practice (pdf)
