Can Following the MRTN Approach Reduce Tile Nitrate Loss in Conventional and Cover Cropping Systems?
Validating MRTN Recommendations to Reduce Tile Nitrate Loss in Conventional and Cover Cropping Systems
Based on year 1 insights, this year 2 project will focus on validating the maximum return to nitrogen (MRTN) approach as a viable method to determine nitrogen (N) rates for corn in a corn/soybean rotation both with and without cover crops. This is particularly important in the tiled fields of central Illinois where it is critical to reduce nitrate loss.
WHY THIS RESEARCH IS IMPORTANT
- Reducing nitrate loss is critical to water quality, particularly for areas that flow into the Mississippi River and where use of tile is common.
HOW THIS RESEARCH BENEFITS THE FARMER
- Understanding which and how cover crops contribute to soil health and improved crop yield in a corn/soybean rotation can help farmers reduce their N applications while maintaining crop yield goals.
RESEARCH TEAM
- Daniel Schaefer, Nutrient Stewardship Director, Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association
TRIAL LOCATIONS
- Blue Mound
About the Lead Researchers
Daniel Schaefer
Nutrient Stewardship Director
Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association (IFCA)
217-202-5173
dan@ifca.com
ARE YOU A FARMER OR ADVISOR?
If you’re a farmer or advisor, we invite you to take our Soybean Production Concerns Survey linked below to help guide future ISA research efforts. We also encourage you to contact us below with specific production challenge research ideas.
ARE YOU A RESEARCHER?
If you’re a researcher interested in working with ISA on a project, we encourage you to contact us with your ideas. The RFP will open in early March. Contact us below to be added to the mailing list for more information.
