Nitrogen fertilizer is one of the highest input costs in crop production. Applied at the proper rate and the nitrogen fertilizer increases crop yield and profitability while minimizing potential negative environmental effects. However, determining the optimum rate is challenging and can vary within fields and years. SDSU Extension will work with farmers, crop advisors and ag service providers to design, implement, and analyze on-farm nitrogen rate trials. This data will help us increase our understanding of how nitrogen fertilizer rate requirements vary by geography, weather, soil type, and cropping system.
How to Participate
For a farmer to participate they would need to have their combine equipped with a yield monitor, supply at least 1 year of past corn yield data to inform trial placement, ability to apply yourself or through your preferred retailer a variable rate nitrogen prescription containing trials, ability to supply basic cropping plans information, and keep all other agronomic practices consistent in the trial area. Through an industry partner, SDSU Extension will provide variable rate prescription maps and data analysis and interpretation of nitrogen rate trial results. If you have questions or would like to know more about the program, or state that you are interested in participating, please fill out the form below.
