January 2011
// Vol. 29 // No. 1
Dec 14, 2010
Nitrate loss through tile drains, like this outlet in Iowa, is expensive to the farmer and detrimental to water quality.
Photo courtesy of: USDA
// NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT //
Tile Drainage Directly Related to Nitrate Loss
A University of Illinois and Cornell University study suggests that tile drainage is the main culprit in nitrate loss from farm fields. Researchers name the corn belt, from southwest Minnesota, across Iowa, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio, as a critical area.
// PROJECT SPOTLIGHT //
Counting Cover Crop Decisions
A survey and focus group discussion helped CTIC further understand cover crop management issues facing producers today. Cover crops can provide significant benefits, but require lots of dedication, know-how and learning from others' successes.
// SUCCESS STORY //
Bunge Funds GENERATIONS
Bunge, a company dedicated to sustainable, science-based farming systems, donated generously to the GENERATIONS program, designed to bring together FFA students and corn producers. Test results, compiled by the University of Missouri Delta Research Center, will reveal how many producers in the project area apply less nitrogen than they need, more than they need or an optimal amount.
// LIVESTOCK WASTE MANAGEMENT //
Monitor Moisture to Manage Manure
Understanding the factors that increase runoff and applying manure when risks are low can significantly impact water pollution, according to manure management specialists at the University of Wisconsin’s Discovery Farms.
// MEMBER CONTRIBUTION //
Mosaic Sponsors Indian Creek Watershed Project
The Mosaic Company's values of integrity, excellence, sustainability and connectivity define how it conducts business and how it treats our communities and our planet. Its donation to CTIC's Indian Creek watershed project in Illinois demonstrates Mosaic's commitment to the success of conservation agriculture.
// MEDAL MEMBERS //
Member Recognition
Our Medal Members fund CTIC outreach projects such as workshops, field days, focus sessions and webinars.
// RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY //
Research & Technology Briefs
Preview and link to articles about the latest research in conservation agriculture. This issue: pest management, greenhouse gas emissions, fertilizer application for rice, climate model development and energy from waste products.
// CONSERVATION CALENDAR //
Conservation Events
Plan to attend these premier conservation events featuring nutrient management, conservation tillage and management, and conservation science and policy.