J. Tate, G. Czapar, D. McKenna and J. Payne 1
Phosphorus pollution of surface waters is well documented, as is its ability to increase the eutrophication process in lakes and streams. Although a naturally occurring process, accelerated eutrophication, caused primarily by phosphorus, degrades water use for aquatic life, recreation, industry and drinking water. Recent research has suggested that phosphorus plays a role in the Hypoxia issue in the Gulf of Mexico. The focus on agricultural use of phosphorus is increasing and it is in the best interest of the industry to follow sound agronomic principles.
As fertilizer prices hit record highs, sound economic principles require producers to properly manage nutrient expenses to avoid unnecessary costs of production.
The goal of this program was to provide educational material to the individuals who assist producers with nutrient management and fertilizer selection. It was a cooperative effort of the Illinois Council on Best Management Practices (C-BMP). The council is a coalition of agribusiness, agricultural organizations and University of Illinois Extension. Its mission is to assist and encourage the adoption of BMPs to protect and improve water quality in Illinois. Current members include the Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Illinois Soybean Association and Syngenta Crop Protection.
A brochure and poster outlining the importance of best management practices regarding phosphorus was developed. This information focused on the importance of soil testing, installing and maintaining buffer strips, reducing erosion, injecting or incorporating manure and matching nutrient applications to crop needs.
In cooperation with the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association, a mailing list for all fertilizer dealerships and Extension Units in the state of Illinois was compiled. In December 2006, one poster and twenty-five copies of the brochure were sent to all organizations on the mailing list. In addition, copies were supplied to the McLean county Soil and Water Conservation Districts.
Information about the program and a copy of the brochure were posted on the C-BMP and IFCA websites.
It is difficult to measure the impact of this specific program on changing phosphorus management practices. A survey will be mailed to all fertilizer dealerships and Extension Units to gauge the overall acceptance of this program by producers and landowners.
1Tate and Czapar are Extension Educators, University of Illinois; McKenna is the Deputy Administrator, Division of Natural Resources, Illinois Department of Agriculture; Payne is the President of the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association.
University of Illinois Agronomy Handbook
iah.aces.uiuc.edu/
Illinois Council on Best Management Practices
www.cbmp.uiuc.edu
Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association
www.ifca.com