... Incentives Program (EQIP)
Grazing and Rangeland
Hypoxia
Know Your Watershed
Leadership
Mississippi River Basin Initiative (MRBI)
No-Till
National Aquatic Resource Survey (NARS)
National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI)
Nutrient Management
Operational Tillage Assessment System (OpTIS)
Pasture
Ridge Till
Soil Health
Strip Till
Tours
Training
Water Quality
Watershed Groups Watershed Implementation and Innovation Network (WIIN)
Weed Management
Wetlands
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... by farmers and ranchers to implement Best Management Practices in their farming operations.
Mosaic also has supported conservation agriculture in its work with CTIC. The company has been the lead sponsor of the Conservation in Action Tour for the past four years and a top-tier sponsor of the Indian Creek Watershed Project. In addition, Mosaic is a founding partner of the Watershed Implementation and Innovation Network (WIIN), an online network that provides a forum for information sharing among watershed projects as well as easy access to experts and resources for learning and inspiration. Mosaic also was a platinum sponsor for the 6th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture, which took place in June in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
For more information on The Mosaic Company, visitwww.mosai ... more. |
... testing stations.
More than 40 percent of the farm acreage in the 80-square-mile watershed is enrolled in conservation programs, and many of the watershed’s 160 farmers are on the CTIC-facilitated Indian Creek Watershed Project advisory board.
That dramatic level of involvement was the subject of the webinar that launched the Great Rivers/Upstream Heroes Watershed Implementation and Innovation Network (WIIN). Tune in early in 2013 for the official launch of the WIIN website, an online learning and brainstorming resource for watershed project managers throughout the Mississippi River Basin.
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... runoff from farm operations, forestry, urban environments, mining, construction and others.
Water quality trading continues to gain interest among industry and agricultural producers as a viable market-based alternative to achieving water quality improvements. New projects in the Midwest explore how to structure a large-scale trading program, the feasibility of trading in the Wabash River watershed and the support role that agricultural industry can play.
Water quality trading assigns economic value to the benefits generated by conservation practice implementation, according to the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) publication, “Getting Paid for Stewardship: An Agricultural Community Water Quality Trading Guide.”
Nutrient or sediment reductions resultin ... more. |
... farm operations, forestry, urban environments, mining, construction and others.
Water quality trading continues to gain interest among industry and agricultural producers as a viable market-based alternative to achieving water quality improvements. New projects in the Midwest explore how to structure a large-scale trading program, the feasibility of trading in the Wabash River watershed and the support role that agricultural industry can play.
Water quality trading assigns economic value to the benefits generated by conservation practice implementation, according to the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) publication, “Getting Paid for Stewardship: An Agricultural Community Water Quality Trading Guide.”
Nutrient or sediment reductions resultin ... more. |
Our members renew again and again; they realize the many important benefits, directly and indirectly, of CTIC's work.
They earn national recognition, and show the public their commitment to agricultural conservation. Many members partner on our projects, supporting CTIC with technical information and assistance.
View our current CTIC members by selecting from the tabs below.
Corporate Members Instit ... more. |
... and Community Evolvement to Make a More Swimmable California
Erick Burres
Speaker Bio
Erick Burres is a Senior Environmental Scientist Specialist with California’s State Water Resources Control Board where he leads the Clean Water Team. Mr. Burres has a BS in Zoology and a MPA in Public Policy and Administration. He has worked on wildlife conservation, fisheries and watershed stewardship projects since the late 1980’s and has been with the Clean Water Team since 2000.
Video Length - 12:18
Utah’s Joint Harmful Algal Bloom and E. coli Recreational Water Quality Advisory Program
Kate Fickas
Speaker Bio
Dr. Kate Fickas earned her Ph.D. at OSU coming up with novel ways to use dense time series analysis of satellite imagery to ... more. |
Over the course of six years, the Indian Creek Watershed Project proved to be a significant model for voluntary water quality improvement efforts—not just in Livingston County, Illinois, but across the country.
Project organizers talked to every single producer in the watershed about conservation practices and water quality, and by the end of the project, conservation systems and best management practices (BMPs) were in place on at least 57% o ... more. |
A free, one-hour webinar on Monday, Dec. 3 will offer tips on increasing farmer involvement in watershed projects. CTIC’s Indian Creek Watershed Project partners will host to share their insight. “Increasing Producer Involvement in Watershed Projects: Lessons from Indian Creek,” will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 pm Central Standard Time.
The webinar is the first in a series by the Great Rivers & Upstream Heroes Watershed Implementation & Innovation Network (WIIN ... more. |
... commonly used in DWM systems.
Session 3: DWM Design, Field Zoning, retrofitting elevation plans, and economics
This session moved to more advanced drainage water management concepts including how to determine the drained area, control elevations, and the extent of the controlled zone. Participants also learned about economic considerations and requirements of the NRCS Drainage Implementation Activity 164.
August 2022 – ADMC Drainage Water Management Certification Course – online only
Session 1: Drainage Design and Soils: Soil and water concepts & tools, fundamentals in drainage design, and design tools.
Session 2: DWM Design Introduction to Drainage Water Management design.
Session 3: DWM Design Session 3: Field Zoning, retrofitting elevati ... more. |
... the growing season. Considering that no such guidance currently exists, this innovative multi-state project is developing a set of regional recommendations that are necessary to facilitate and encourage the widespread adoption of DWM. Pilot farms are using the latest technologies, including satellite-controlled water control structures, to manage the water table under their fields. Through implementation of the project, significant data is obtained to document nutrient savings from DWM, a necessary step in nutrient trading.
CTIC is working closely with ADMC to provide the outreach component of this project. We will transfer information about the benefits of drainage water management through a variety of mechanisms so that agencies and producers are both more aware of and can make informed d ... more. |
Gulf of Mexico hypoxia issues pose a significant challenge in addressing the protection of the marine environment given the sheer magnitude of excess nutrient loading and the size of the contributing Mississippi River watershed. This nutrient loading is a result of cumulative nutrientdischarges across the largest river basin in North America, the Mississippi River Basin. The Wabash River watershed contributes a significant nutrient load, from portions ofIndiana, Illinois, and Ohio,to the Ohio River, the Mississippi River, and eventually, the Gulf of Mexico. Recent Total Maximum Daily Loads developed to ... more. |
... Delivered
Video Length - 10:32
Antimicrobial Resistance in Wastewater Effluent Streams Discharging to Urban Coastal Waters
Josh Steele
Speaker Bio
Dr. Joshua Steele is a microbiologist who specializes in environmental microbiology and microbial ecology, including cultivation-independent tracking of pathogens and natural microorganisms in the coastal ocean and watersheds. While at the California Institute of Technology, he focused on applying next-generation sequencing, metagenomics, metaproteomics, and biogeochemical rate measurements to study deep-sea methane seep microbial communities. His research involves development and application of molecular techniques to detect and track pathogenic bacteria and viruses, determine their viability and infectivity, and li ... more. |
Take a tour of the new WIIN, an innovative website for watershed project managers in the Mississippi River Basin. The Great Rivers & Upstream Heroes Watershed Implementation & Innovation Network (WIIN) is an online resource for sharing detailed information about watershed projects throughout the Basin, including data and lessons learned.
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A Look Back and a Glimpse into 2009
By Karen A. Scanlon
Although it doesn't seem possible, we are nearing the end of another year. Soon we are giving thanks for the good things in our lives and making plans for new accomplishments and adventures for the year ahead.
CTIC is thankful ... more. |
This project, funded by EPA's Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, will demonstrate the effectiveness of cover crops and conservation tillage systems to decrease agricultural nonpoint source pollution and inform producers about the economic benefits of the systems. CTIC and partners will assist agricultural producers in the Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, and Lake Huron watersheds with implementation of cover crops and conservation tillage systems on 15,000 acres by April 2013. Producers will receive technical, educational and social support to fully understand the benefits of cover crops and conservation tillage, to correctly incorporate the practices into their operation, to evaluate the changes and adapt management to optimize yield and resource protection. By providin ... more. |
Facilitated by CTIC, local farmers and interested others lead this project to demonstrate and test best conservation practices on Indian Creek Watershed farms.
The project, sponsored by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (with funds provided through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act) will show how conservation practices installed on Indian Creek watershed farms will affect water quality.
Goal
Determine what water quality improvements result when 50-75% of producers and acres in a small watershed adopt compr ... more. |
... on becoming an NRCS-approved technical service provider (TSP) will be held on August 24.
Click here to register.
Check Out the PLUS-UP Story Map
We are paying the farmers who participated in our Phosphorus Load-Reduction Stimulus Program (PLUS-UP) for preventing nearly 400 pounds of dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) from entering Lake Erie's watershed.
An interactive online "story map" details the PLUS-UP program by overlaying facts about the pilot project over an ArcGIS map of the Western Lake Erie Basin.
The story map, created by Roger Meyer and Kevin Stark of Geospatial Services team at St. Mary's University of Minnesota, is a dynamic exploration of the challenges of nutrient enrichment in the basin, the ... more. |
This project, funded by a 2008 Conservation Innovation Grant, promotes the use of cover crops to ease farmers’ transition to use of continuous no-till. Continuous no-till (CNT) has been around long enough that there is little doubt among experts of its many advantages. Despite the proven economic and environmental benefits of CNT, some farmers remain hesitant to fully adopt the system. In 2004, the National Crop Residue Management survey indicated that only 22.6 percent of farmers were no-tilling. Attempting CNT without proper technical knowledge may cause a disastrous first year and taint opinions toward the practice. Potential economic risks and yield losses during the first five years also ... more. |
... to marry economy and environment, planning and implementation, and research and technology transfer will define our success.
The United States Department of Agriculture recently accepted proposals for the Mississippi River Basin Initiative grants program, an effort to focus $320 million, over the next four years, for nutrient best management practices in priority watersheds of the Mississippi River Basin.
The International Fertilizer Industry Association, the International Plant Nutrition Institute and The Fertilizer Institute promote the 4 R stewardship concept: efficient nutrient management depends on applying nutrients from the Right source, at the Right time, in the Right place, and at the Right rate. The concept emphasizes managing all aspects of n ... more. |
... Chain Sustainability in Iowa
CTIC recently applied to extend our supply chain sustainability project in Iowa for another three years. Because we are optimistic about that application’s success, we are simultaneously pursuing NRCS funding to enhance that project with farmer-led field demonstrations similar to those that were critical to the success of our Indian Creek Watershed project in Illinois. If your organization would like to be part of the planning or implementation of these demos, contact Chad Watts at watts@ctic.org as soon as possible for more information.
Bee Integrated
CTIC manages the Bee Integrated project on behalf of the Honey Bee Health Coalition to demonstrate how farmers and beekeepers can collaborate on a practical system of be ... more. |
Organization
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3), membership organization that provides technical, educational and practical support to America’s agricultural and conservation communities. We were formed in 1982 by a group of representatives from agribusiness, government and associations. We thrive today with guidance and support from partners and members from the public, private and academic sectors.
America’s producers today face complex decisions about how to integrate and maintain conservat ... more. |
... AgroSciences also provides educational tools on environmental stewardship. Along with technical explanations of the science behind nitrogen stabilizers on its website, the company provides information on how the nitrogen stabilizers are part of environmental stewardship.
In the company's work with CTIC, Dow AgroSciences supports the Indian Creek Watershed Project and served as a Platinum Sponsor for the 6th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture.
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CTIC promotes conservation practices by raising awareness of the benefits of conservation, providing detailed information on successful implementation of practices, and sharing perspective on the needs and real-world challenges facing farmers trying to protect soil, water and air quality as well as their economic sustainability.
Watershed Success Forums
Working with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) through the National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI), CTIC is identifying successful watershed management activities that engage landowners, farmers, and the broader public to protect water quality. Five forums in five states are yielding a guide for NRCS, partners and stakeholders on organizing local watershed ... more. |
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) and Conservation Information Technology Center (CTIC) partnered to provide information to watershed professionals throughout the state of Indiana. Below you can find agendas and presentations from those events.
Managing Runoff Networking Session
December 2009
Presentations
Riparian Forest Buffers
Wetland and Stream Restoration
2 Stage Ditch
Water Quality Monitoring Workshop
October 2009
Agenda
Presentations
... more. |
CTIC has completed their workwith USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) on a project in support of NWQI. This project identifiedsuccessful watershed management activities that engaged landowners, farmers, and the broader public to protect water quality. Insights developed through this project will inform future NRCS efforts to support local watershed initiatives with technical and financial resources.
As a first step, CTIC convenedwatershed leaders from across the country at five forums to learn from their experience—successful ... more. |
Know Your Watershed is a coordinated national effort to encourage the formation of local, voluntary watershed partnerships and help assure that these partnerships successfully attain their goals. The initiative is sponsored by more than 70 diverse National Partners representing private and public corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Each National Partner agrees to provide financial and/or ... more. |
Watershed Management Starter Kit
This complete kit includes seven guides (Getting to Know Your Watershed, Building Local Partnerships, Putting Together a Watershed Management Plan, Managing Conflict, Leading and Communicating, and two others), a 13-minute dvd video (Partnerships for Watersheds), companion brochure and an application to the National Watershed Network. In other words, it includes everythi ... more. |
WIIN Webinar on how to increase interaction with and involvement of producers in watershed project design and implementation. Click to get file. |
Using cover crops and continuous no-till together in a conservation system over time maximizes soil health and may lead to yield increases and other benefits.
Photo courtesy of CTIC
Using Cover Crops to Facilitate the Transition to Continuous No-Till
Why this project?
Using cover crops and continuous no-till together ... more. |
... Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodities program.The Connectoris an app being developed by CTIC and its partners to connectthe relevant participants in the emerging climate smart commodity marketplace—buyers, producers, technical service providers, and certifiers–with each other and with the information needed to support transactions among them.
Indian Creek Watershed Project
The Indian Creek Watershed Project brought together farmers and other stakeholders in a central Illinois watershed in a remarkable collaboration that resulted in conservation practices being adopted on at least 57% of the agricultural acreage in the watershed and measurable reductions in nutrients in the creek. The project yielded perspective on conservation practices from demonstratio ... more. |
OpTIS 2.1—FEATURING 2020 DATA—WILL BE ONLINE FREE BY YEAR-END
A new year's worth of remote sensing data on tillage and winter cover crops from the Operational Tillage Information System (OpTIS) will be available by the end of December, expanding the dataset that extends back to 2005 across the Corn Belt.
A powerful, intuitive visualization tool on the CTIC website allows visitors to explore trends in tillage and cover crop adoption through maps and charts while manipulating geography, date range and crop rot ... more. |
Water quality credit trading may be, in many areas,a successful market-based approach to improve water quality. It is an innovative, voluntary tool that connects industrial and municipal facilities, subject to wastewater permit requirements, with agricultural producers to economically achieve water quality improvements. It has the potential to bea flexible and cost-effective approach for maintaining, restoring or enhancing water quality.
Funded By
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Conservation Innovation Grant
Project Partners
Environmen ... more. |
Restoring Waters to Recreational Use
Tracking Land-based Sources of Nutrients and Microbial Contamination in a Pacific Northwest Estuarine Watershed
Amy Zimmer-Faust
No Bio Available
No Bio Delivered
Video Length - 12:58
Ambient Water Quality Thresholds for Human-associated HF183: Effect of Water Temperature, Aging, and Co-contamination with Gull Feces
Jeff Soller
Speaker Bio
Mr. Jeffrey Soller is the Principal Scientist at Soller Environmental, LLC. He conducts microbial risk assessments, evaluat ... more. |
... view the agenda and topics to be discussed, click here.
Sponsored by
Conservation Technology Information Center, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Tetra Tech
November 9th: Overview of Centralized and Decentralized Treatment Issues
Summary of Centralized/Decentralized Treatment Approaches Water and Wastewater Resource Management ConsiderationsTMDLs, Watershed Planning, Antidegradation, and Wastewater Wastewater Capacity Development and Cost Issues
View the November 9th presentation, Barry Tonning.
Questions & Answers
Links Mentioned in the Presentation:
Rocky Mountain Institute Cost Benefit Analysis of Wastewater Options
Guidance for Federal Land Management in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed
U ... more. |
Integrating Watershed Planning and Implementation at the
Local Level
Click on the links below to see the presentations
from the May Networking Sessions:
Presentation Part 1 ... more. |
... by the Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment, which was awarded up to $35 million by USDA to conduct this new partnership pilot.
In the Field With EPA
CTIC waded right in on a pair of wetland projects funded under U.S. EPA's National Aquatic Resource Survey (NARS) program.
First, we visited Minnesota's Root River Watershed, where local conservation district staff, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and other stakeholders are engaged in an innovative One Watershed, One Plan program that coordinates watershed management and cleanup efforts. The Root River will be the focus of a story map that explores a wide range of watershed protection and monitoring measures and ties in data from NARS nationwide assessments.
... more. |
... Evans
Brian Lindley
Bill Kuenstler
Tim Healey
Karen Scanlon
Peter Gamache
Agenda:
Message Committee report
- Finalize message
Operations Committee report
- Pledge
- Mission/vision
- Proposals - Purdue
Community of Practice in support of Conservation Agriculture
Member updates
Message Committee
Go with Blair’s wording on message and declare it final.
FAO message hits all the right points.
Operations Committee
Karen will finalize and distribute to full group with brochure. Mission/vision will be pulled from
message and brochure. Think about how to tie into FAO message.
Purdue University approached CTIC and CASA to be a partner on a new proposal to CSREES
for a 2-year, $200,000 planning grant. Brian will ... more. |
CASA is a North American alliance of producer organizations united with a common goal to advance conservation agriculture systems. CASA strengthens the individual efforts of each member organization and also helps the collective group move toward the shared purpose of increasing conservation in agriculture in North America. CTIC hosts monthly conference calls, a web site and a discussion forum for CASA. CASA primary purposes are to:
Facilitate communication among CASA members and partners
Promote consistent messages about conservation agriculture
Share infor ... more. |
Water Quality Credit Trading Workshop
August 19 - 20, 2008
Troy-Hayner Cultural Center
Troy, Ohio
Water Quality Credit Trading programs bring together agriculture and the wastewater community to solve difficult water quality issues.The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), in conjunction with the Environmental Trading Network (ETN), the Water Environment Federation (WEF) and Certified Crop Advisers, is hosting a two-day water quality credit trading workshop. This will be a detailed, intensive training program on water quality trading for agricultu ... more. |
... morning presentations from CTIC, ISDA, Regrow, Indigo, SAS, Iowa State, USGS, and OpenTEAM (see below). During the afternoon session, the project partners (CTIC, Arva, Corteva) presented the initial CVN database design for feedback.
Based on input from this broad group of participants, an enrollment webpage was developed, and CTIC began to seek funding to proceed with Phase 2 of the pilot, implementation. Those fund-raising efforts continue.
The grower enrollment webpageis now available. Click hereto learn more.
View Enrollment Page
For further information about CVN, please contact Dave Gustafson (gustafson@ctic.org).
Dave Gustafson (CTIC)
CVN (Conservation Validation Network)
View File
A.J. Kumar (Indigo Ag)
... more. |
... Often, these facilities find that it is less expensive to pay producers to implement conservation practices than it is to expand the facility or install new treatment technologies. Through water quality trading, producers, regulated facilities and local water quality all benefit.
CTIC’s market feasibility analysis will determine if the necessary conditions exist in the Wabash River watershed to support the development and implementation of a viable, sustainable water quality trading program.
Partners
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Agri Drain, Duke Energy, Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Indiana Farm Bureau, Indiana Soybean Alliance, and Purdue University Extension
Read the Final Report
For Mor ... more. |
From the Project Director
In our first year, the 10 farmers in the PLUS-UP program prevented almost 400 pounds of dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) from entering the Lake Erie watershed. For a little pilot project with 10 farmers and 5,000 acres, that's a big number.
DRP fuels algal blooms like gasoline feeds a fire. For PLUS-UP, we estimated the value of a pound of DRP at $100, a measure of the environmental damage it can cause and the cost of trying to remove it from water supplies to prevent it from enlarging the harmful algal blooms (HABs) that plague La ... more. |
... indices have been developed independently of each other, and the language describing them today is more like the “Tower of Babel,” rather than a common language.
In the future, ecocommerce indices could be created using similar indices, but with a coordinated effort and standardized units. This language can then develop landscape intelligence as it pertains to management of watersheds and biofuel sheds, and it could provide the foundation for a sustainability index, such as what is now proposed by Walmart.
According to Walmart’s Web site, the company developed a sustainability index initiative in order to meet customers’ requests for more efficient, longer-lasting, higher-performance products. The company’s goal is to create a more transparent suppl ... more. |
CTIClinks private businesses, non-profit organizations, associations, and local, state, regional, and federal government agencies to address their common conservation agriculture issues. Our coalition-led initiatives range from small watershed projects to national events and conferences. With strength, wisdom, and knowledge in numbers, CTIC’s coalitions work to disseminate information on new technologies and tools, to ensure conservation agriculture works on the ground.
The Conservation Agriculture Systems Alliance (CASA)unites voluntary producer organizations across North America that share similar missions and goals, e ... more. |
FromSioux Falls, South Dakota, we'll travel to innovative farms that showcase the best practices in conservation agriculture.
May 6, 2025: Optional Workshops, Banquet
May 7, 2025: Conservation in Action Tour, Closing Reception
More information coming soon!
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... serves as Team Leader for the National Aquatic Resource Surveys in U.S. EPA’s Monitoring Branch. In this role, she provides leadership for each of the national surveys including lakes, rivers and streams, coastal waters, and wetlands. Prior to this, Sarah worked in EPA’s Region 5 office in Chicago as the Regional Monitoring Coordinator working states and tribes in the development and implementation of monitoring and assessment strategies.
Video Length - 10:34
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... Training
Through a collaborative agreement with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), CTIC provides leadership and technical support for 5 workshops between 2015 and 2020 that teach Certified Crop Advisors, ag retailers and other agronomic consultants to identify conservation systems that could benefit their clients' farms, then connect them with technical and financial support for implementation. Practices include in-field nutrient management, drainage water management systems, bioreactors, saturated buffers and more.
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... create more organic matter in the soils. Increased organic matter serves as a food source to various soil organisms and increases the biological activity. Higher biological activity increases nutrient cycling and availability and also reduces nutrient loss due to run off. With all this activity, soil structure and tilth are improved, increasing infiltration rates and reducing compaction.
Implementation of cover crops can have the following beneficial effects:
Increase soil organic matter
Increase infiltration of water into the soil
Decrease runoff to nearby waterways
Decrease soil erosion and transport to nearby waterways
Conserve soil moisture
Reduce soil compaction
Increase nutrient availability to the crop
Reduce nitrate leaching to groundwater
Supply nitrogen to follow ... more. |
... create more organic matter in the soils. Increased organic matter serves as a food source to various soil organisms and increases the biological activity. Higher biological activity increases nutrient cycling and availability and also reduces nutrient loss due to run off. With all this activity, soil structure and tilth are improved, increasing infiltration rates and reducing compaction.
Implementation of cover crops can have the following beneficial effects:
Increase soil organic matter
Increase infiltration of water into the soil
Decrease runoff to nearby waterways
Decrease soil erosion and transport to nearby waterways
Conserve soil moisture
Reduce soil compaction
Increase nutrient availability to the crop
Reduce nitrate leaching to groundwater
Supply nitrogen to following cro ... more. |
... create more organic matter in the soils. Increased organic matter serves as a food source to various soil organisms and increases the biological activity. Higher biological activity increases nutrient cycling and availability and also reduces nutrient loss due to run off. With all this activity, soil structure and tilth are improved, increasing infiltration rates and reducing compaction.
Implementation of cover crops can have the following beneficial effects:
Increase soil organic matter
Increase infiltration of water into the soil
Decrease runoff to nearby waterways
Decrease soil erosion and transport to nearby waterways
Conserve soil moisture
Reduce soil compaction
Increase nutrient availability to the crop
Reduce nitrate leaching to groundwater
Supply nitrogen to follow ... more. |
Increase soil organic matter
Increase infiltration of water into the soil
Decrease runoff to nearby waterways
Decrease soil erosion and transport to nearby waterways
Conserve soil moisture
Reduce soil compaction
Increase nutrient availability to the crop
Reduce nitrate leaching to groundwater
Supply nitrogen to following crop
Suppress weeds, potential reducing the need for herbicides
Suppress soil-born diseases and nematodes, potentially reducing the need for insecticides
Attract be ... more. |
Southern Plains Agricultural Resources Coalition (SPARC)
Established 2006
The Southern Plains Agricultural Resources Coalition will spark rural sustainability and profitability through greater use of no-till practices and conservation systems for producers, consumers, and communities by promotion of market based incentives, education, demonstration, participation, and research.
Mission, Goals and Contact Information
Mission Statement
The Southern Plains Agricultural Resources Coalition will spark rural sustainability and profitability throu ... more. |
... farmers plant nearly 40,000 acres of cover crops.
For our next step, CTIC is joining partners including The Nature Conservancy, Practical Farmers of Iowa, and Unilever to encourage greater adoption of conservation systems among farmers already enrolled in supply chain sustainability initiatives. This project will focus outreach and education on farmers in on Iowa’s Skunk watersheds, as well as utilizing the recently developed4R Plusframework to engage ag retailers, CCAs, and other advisors at the local level in a common conversation about the potential economic and environmental benefits of conservation.
Bee Integrated
CTIC manages the Bee Integrated project on behalf of the Honey Bee Health Coalition to demonstrate how farmers and beekeepers ca ... more. |
... farmers plant nearly 40,000 acres of cover crops.
For our next step, CTIC is joining partners including The Nature Conservancy, Practical Farmers of Iowa, and Unilever to encourage greater adoption of conservation systems among farmers already enrolled in supply chain sustainability initiatives. This project will focus outreach and education on farmers in on Iowa’s Skunk watersheds, as well as utilizing the recently developed4R Plusframework to engage ag retailers, CCAs, and other advisors at the local level in a common conversation about the potential economic and environmental benefits of conservation.
Bee Integrated
CTIC manages the Bee Integrated project on behalf of the Honey Bee Health Coalition to demonstrate how farmers and beekeepers ca ... more. |
Diamond Member
The Mosaic Company
www.mosaicco.com
Mosaic is the world's leading producer and marketer of concentrated phosphate and potash, two of the primary nutrients required to grow the food the world needs. The business engages in every phase of crop nutrition development, from the mining of resources to the production of crop nutrients, feed and industrial products for customers around the globe.
Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC.
www.syngenta.com
Syngenta is a world ... more. |
... Technologies, Agrotain, The Fertilizer Institute, Monsanto, Mosaic, Illinois Corn Marketing Board, Agri Drain Corporation, Case IH, John Deere, ADM and the International Plant Nutrition Institute.
Register by calling Terry Bachtold at 815.844.6127, extension 3, or email Amber Gritter at gritter@ctic.org. Please specify morning or afternoon tour.
The Indian Creek Watershed Project is an effort to increase the adoption of conservation agricultural systems and measure the effectiveness of different nutrient management practices on local farms.
For more information about the watershed project, contact Terry Bachtold, Livingston County SWCD, at 815.844.6127, extension 3 or visit CTIC's Indian Creek project web site.
The Livingston County Soil an ... more. |
... organization representatives, federal and state agency representatives, students and researchers.
Read more and view tour videos, photos and more on our tour wrap-up page.
Conservation In Action Tour 2013
The 2013 tour had record attendance! On July 10, more than 270 producers, agribusiness partners, government officials and media professionals from 20 states visited the Indian Creek Watershed in Livingston County, Ill.
CTIC partnered with the Livingston County Soil and Water Conservation District to showcase a "Community 4 Conservation." Highlights of the tour included:
An Aerial Seeding Demonstration
A Soil Pit Demonstration
Slake test
Equipment on display
The Tiling Demonstration
Click here to read more about CTIC's 2013 Tour.
Conservation In ... more. |
... be delivered later this spring and are expected to provide the greatest indicator of our success providing cost-effective on-farm pollinator habitat.
National Water Quality Initiative:
CTIC is currently working with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) on a project in support of the National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI). This project is identifying successful watershed management activities that engage landowners, farmers, and the broader public to protect water quality. Insights developed through this project will inform future NRCS efforts to support local watershed initiatives with technical and financial resources.
As a first step, CTIC is convening watershed leaders from across the country at five forums to learn from their experience—succes ... more. |
The Agricultural Drainage Management Coalition conducted demonstration field days in five states last year to give farmers, advisors and regulators an up-close look at field-scale drainage management plots side-by-side with free-flowing tile drainage.
Agricultural Drainage Management:
Benefits Could Range from the Bin to the Gulf
By Steve Werblow
Managing agricultural drainage water in the Midwest could represent the next great step forward in agriculture, with benefits that reach from conserving subso ... more. |
CTIC recently received a Grant from EPA’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative that will fund the promotion of cover crops and conservation tillage in the Lake Erie, Lake Huron and Lake Michigan Watersheds. Agricultural producers will be provided with technical, educational and social support which will work together to create strong cover crop and conservation tillage systems that can be sustained after the project ends.
Education
CTIC will work with partners to host 18 workshops in the three watersheds (Lake Michigan Watershed, Lake Erie Watershed and Lake Huron Watershed) promoting C ... more. |
Adoption of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices
Data are available for the adoption of cover crops and conservation tillage. Remote-sensing derived, CONUS-wide cropland data for the adoption of two important conservation practices (cover crops and reduced tillage).
Data are currently available for the years 2015-2021. All data are available at the watershed (HUC8) and Crop Reporting District (CRD) geographic scales.
Explore the Climate-Smart Data Applications
Cover Crop
The extent of cover crop adoption on row crops across CONUS (the lower 48 states).
Remote-sensing derived, CONUS-wide cropland data for the adoption of cover crops. Data are currently available for the years 2015-2021. All data are available at the watersh ... more. |
CTIC is working with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to improve the effective engagement by NRCS in delivering watershed projects and to enhance the agency's ability to communicate the issues and success of watershed projects. This project is identifying successful watershed management activities that engage landowners, farmers, and the broader public to protect water quality. Insights developed through this project will inform future NRCS efforts to support local watershed initiatives with technical and financ ... more. |
... conservation game."
Installation costs of drainage management systems range from $20 to $200 per acre more than conventional drainage systems. To offset these costs, government cost-share programs are an important part of the picture. Programs including Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative can provide assistance for installation. And, in some states, Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) funds may apply to drainage management structures in riparian buffers.
Schafer says that "Ideally, farmers could be compensated to forfeit a year’s crop in order to facilitate construction of water management sys ... more. |
The EPA's Watershed Academy provides training opportunities and other resources regarding watershed utilization. Users can participate in training tools, webcasts and others informational sessions. To view publications produced by the Watershed Academy, a list of seminars and other training courses or other information, click here.
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Speaker Presentations
Benefits and Obstacles in Water Quality Trading - George Kelly, Environmental Banc & Exchange
Ohio's Great Miami River Watershed - Dusty Hall, The Miami Conservancy District
Water Quality Credit Training Workshop - Jim Klang, Kieser & Associates
Aggregators: Examples and Opportunities - Jamie McCarthy, Kieser & Associates
Sauk River Watershed Ecosystem Services Project - Jim Klang, Kieser & Associates
Great Miami River Watershed Water Quality Credit Trading Program - Sarah Hippensteel, The M ... more. |
WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana (April 24, 2019)—The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) welcomes its new Executive Director, Mike Komp. The role will call upon Komp's skills to build collaborative networks that help promote and champion conservation farming systems, secure funding for new programs, and—increasingly—help analyze and disseminate digital data on conservation practices.
As interest in sustainable farming practices grows among farmers, consumers, and policymakers, CTIC's role is expanding, noted Terry Tindall of J.R. Simplot, Chair of CTIC's Board of Directors. So is the role ... more. |
Research & Technology Briefs
By Rachel Doctor
Midwest Cover Crops Council Web Site Introduced
Midwestern farmers wanting to learn more about cover crops now have a central information source where they can easily find practical ways to use them.
The Midwest Cover Crops Council (MCCC) recently introduced a Web site as an educational tool to help expand the knowledge compiled since the group's formation two years ago to farmers and others in agricultural-related fields.
The MCCC is comprised of a diverse group of academia, production agriculture, non-governmental organizations, commodity interests, private sector and representatives from federal and state agencies collaborating to address soil, water, air and agricultural quality con ... more. |
Cover crops are among the most exciting and most complex conservation systems on today's agricultural landscape. CTIC and its partners have been at the forefront of exploring, demonstrating, and promoting cover crops to help make them as effective as possible.
Bee Integrated Demonstration Project
CTIC is supporting this Honey Bee Health Coalition led effort to bring together beekeepers and farmers to demonstrate how a suite of be ... more. |
CTIC’s Economic, Agronomic and Environmental Benefits of Cover Crops project, usually called "Cover Crop Math," will pencil out the full range of benefits that cover crops bring to the farm and surrounding areas. Twenty-one farmers in seven states across the Midwest are sharing samples and information from their operations which project partners are analyzing. Four farmers are conducting additional nitrogen rate stri ... more. |
2018 Conservation in Action Tour dates and location
Mark your calendars! We are thrilled to announce that our 11thannual Conservation in Action Tour will take place on July 11 and 12 near the beautiful Chesapeake Bay in the Maryland and Washington D.C. area. More information will be announced as it is finalized in the coming months. We’re excited to continue bringing together people from across the country with differen ... more. |
Established 1994
Reduced Tillage LINKAGES (RTL) is an extension organization that focuses on increasing the adoption of sustainable production systems, based on reduced tillage, by Alberta farmers and ranchers. The program is a partnership with broad-based farmer, industry, educational, wildlife, and government support and employs five agronomists.
Mission, Goals and Contact Information
Mission Statement:
To be the leading agricultural extension organization in Alberta focused on increasing the adoption of sustainable production systems by Alberta farmers and ranchers. LINKAGES = L ... more. |
CTIC Bronze Corporate Member, Tetra Tech, is a leading provider of consulting, engineering, and technical services worldwide. They are a diverse company, including individuals with expertise in science, research, engineering, construction, and information technology. Their strength is in collectively providing integrated services - delivering the best solutions to meet clients' needs.
In a complex world with competing demands for limited resources, Tetra Tech ... more. |
CTIC Corporate Member, Monsanto, is an agricultural company. Monsanto applies innovation and technology to help farmers around the world be successful, produce healthier foods, better animal feeds and more fiber, while also reducing agriculture's impact on our environment. To learn more about Monsanto, visit www.monsanto.com
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A proven leader in the agricultural industry, John Deere is also taking the lead in agricultural sustainability by providing customers with technology and products that improve efficiency and productivity.
Photo courtesy of John Deere.
Solid. Stable. Focused on Sustainability.
John Deere advances stewardship in agriculture
By Christy Couch Lee
Over 170 years ago, John Deere began his one-man blacksmith shop in Grand DeTour, Ill. Today, Deere & Company empl ... more. |
... on: developing consistent messages about nutrient management needs and practices in southeastern Minnesota, identifying and bringing the tools/ practices necessary for improving nutrient management, and obtaining funding to support direct technical assistance to help farmer understand, adopt and maintain nutrient management practices.
Working in 14 counties within the Wabash Watershed (two in western Ohio and 12 in eastern Indiana), CTIC has facilitated the formation of a watershed stakeholder group to identify needs for nutrient management within the watershed, identify existing programs and assistance for meeting nutrient management needs, determine what additional tools are needed for success, and search for ptential funding sources. The project's web site, http:www.cti ... more. |
... later this spring and are expexted to provide the greatest indicator of our success providing cost-effective on-farm pollinator habitat.
National Water Quality Initiative:
CTIC is currently working with USDA's Natural Recources Conservation Service (NRCS) on a project in support of the National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI). This project is identifying successful watershed management activities that engage landowners, farmers, and the broader public to protect water quality. Insights developed through this project will inform future NRCS efforts to support local watershed initiatives with technical and financial resources.
As a first step, CTIC is convening wareshed leaders from across the country at five forums to learn from their experience-suc ... more. |
A highly qualified crop consultant (watershed coordinator) has been identified in each watershed to provide one on one technical support to the producers who participate in this program. These people will meet with producers and help them make important decisions to ensure a successful transition to using a cover crop and conservation tillage system.
Lake Michigan Coordina ... more. |
Know Your Watershed is a coordinated national effort to encourage the formation of local, voluntary watershed partnerships and help assure that these partnerships successfully attain their goals. The initiative is sponsored by more than 70 diverse National Partners representing private and public corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Each National Partner agrees to provide financial and/or ... more. |
The efficient use of nutrients within farming operations is receiving a great deal of attention for several reasons. Today, producers look more carefully at what, when and how they apply fertilizer, primarily because of the increased cost of fertilizer and other inputs as well as the general economic downturn. Additionally, agriculture is the focus of much attention-nationally as well as locally-because farming activities have been linked to the Gulf of Mexico Hypoxic Zone. Not many people understand the complex problem of the hypoxic zone, and individual farmers, ... more. |
The Upper Wabash Nutrient Management Coalition is working with the Grand Lake/Wabash Watershed Alliance (GLWWA) to collect data on swine manure nutrient content.
The GLWWA’s watershed action plan, endorsed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, includes objectives related to agriculture. Many focus on reducing nutrient loading to streams. Nutrient loads can be reduced by addressing erosion problems and using best management prac ... more. |
When: July 8 - 9, 2009
Where: Atwood Lake Resort and Conference Center
2650 Lodge Road
Sherrodsville, OH 44675
888-819-8042
**To make reservations - call and reference the Water Quality Workshop to receive the group rate of $89 per night.
To view the Agenda, click here.
Together with its partners, Environmental Trading Network, the International Certified Crop Advisers, and the Water Environment Federation, the Conservation Techn ... more. |
Top 10 Management Tips
10.
Soil Management: Providing sufficient amounts of crop residue on the soil surface improves organic matter of the soil. Soil testing and applying proper amounts of fertilizer and micronutrients provides for optimum growing environment.
9.
Cultural Practices: The pest’s environment is disrupted by rotating crops, and timely harvesting of crops. Planting cover crops can suppress weed pressure and provide nitrogen and better soil tilth.
8.
Planting: Plant crops that have good vigor and that can tolerate or ... more. |
The Watershed Improvement Committee operates the Middle Kaskaskia Watershed project. They are a world-leading group known for their research in NPS (Non-point Source Pollution). |
The CTIC Conservation in Action Tour is getting back on the bus! Join us in St. Louis, Mo., September 12 and 13 for a celebration of CTIC's 40th Anniversary and our 15th Conservation in Action Tour.
Two action-packed days will include an up-close look at conservation systems in action, the latest in ag tech, and an exploration of the past, present and future of conservation agriculture.
On Monday evening, September 12th, we will be celebrating CTIC's 40th Anniversary. ... more. |
December 2021 Conservation in Action News
A LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
2022 marks CTIC’s 40th anniversary. That’s right, 40 years.
Looking back on our previous 40 years through conversations with members and long-time supporters, CTIC has long been at the center of prominent discussions around the most important conservation topics. Over the years, we have worked on many important conservation issues – tillage, soil health, water quality, nutrient loads, cover crops, carbon sequestration, and much, much more. Looking forward to the future, there is one overarching theme that unites where we&rsq ... more. |
In 2010, CTIC received a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to fund the "Aquatic Resource Monitoring Technical Training Workshops for States, Tribes and Other Stakeholders" project. Over the next three years, CTIC will provide the leadership and technical support to conduct seven aquatic resource-specific workshops and two national conferences covering all aquatics resource types. These workshops and conferences will enhance the collaboration, communication, coordination and technology transfer among over 800 professional attendees. Using a ... more. |
Participants found out how agriculture protects water quality and improves soil health during
the Conservation In Action Tour 2010.
WHEN: August 2-3, 2010
WHERE: Williamsburg, Virginia
WHAT: Visited farms and farmers in east central Virginia who run profitable operations and provide communities with valuable ecosystem services.
Fill out an Evaluation Form from the Conservation In Action Tour 2010.
View photos fr ... more. |
Participants found out how agriculture protects water quality and improves soil health during
the Conservation In Action Tour 2010.
WHEN: August 2-3, 2010
WHERE: Williamsburg, Virginia
WHAT: Visited farms and farmers in east central Virginia who run profitable operations and provide communities with valuable ecosystem services.
Fill out an Evaluation Form from the Conservation In Action Tour 201 ... more. |
... event's opening social, hosted by John Deere at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in Des Moines. Naig is just one of many great speakers who will provide insight into Iowa agriculture's conservation efforts. Others include:
Kurt Simon, Iowa State Conservationist, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
Katie Flahive, US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Bill and Tim Couser, Couser Cattle Company
Tim Recker, Iowa farmer and former chair of Iowa Land Improvement Contractors Association (LICA)
Omar de Kok-Delgado and Tim Youngquist, Iowa State University
Lee Tesdell, Iowa farmer and prairie strip pioneer
Sean McMahon, Executive Director, Iowa Agricultural Water Alliance (IAWA)
Shawn Richmond, Environmental Services Director, Agribusiness Associati ... more. |
Have you checked your mailbox for CTIC’s annual membership renewal notice? Renewing your membership helps us continue to make a difference in conservation agriculture and helps us continue to grow our organization. CTIC members play a critical role in spreading the message about how conservation practices can help improve soil and water quality, boost profitability and more. We couldn’t do it without you!
As a CTIC member, you:
Network with leaders in conservation and agriculture
Collaborate on projects that encourage and steer ... more. |
Who: Wye Mills, MD
What: March 4-5, 2009
Where: Chesapeake College
Together with its partners, Environmental Trading Network, the International Certified Crop Advisers, the Water Environment Federation, and the Maryland Departments of Agriculture and the Environment, the Conservation Technology Information Center hosted this interactive event as part of Maryland’s public outreach on its newly developed nonpoint-source trading program.
Water quality trading is a market-based approach to improve water quality. It is an innovative, voluntary tool that connects industrial and municipal faci ... more. |
We deliver balanced information about comprehensive, sustainable agricultural systems. With our members, we support environmentally responsible and economically viable decision making in agriculture.
Our members:
learn about emerging tools and technology
access our extensive network of experts
show their commitment to the success of conservation agriculture
Our members are CTIC's strength. With our solid, active and dedicated membership, we've demonstrated the value of public/privat ... more. |
Making things happen
CTIC is THE credible, reliable source for information and technology for agricultural conservation. We are dedicated to delivering balanced information to our members about the emerging issues facing our industry, and to keeping our network of members connected, all while maintaining our commitment to conservation.
CTIC champions, prmotoes and provides information about comprehensive conservation agricultural systems.
Our members are CTIC' ... more. |
By becoming a member of CTIC, you'll be connected to a world of people from government, academia, agribusiness, the supply chain, and the farm who are committed to practical, productive conservation farming systems.
Contact Crystal Hatfield, hatfield@ctic.org, for more information on becoming a member.
Join Today
Members support CTIC's important work. Help make it happen. We:
deliver balanced informationaboutemerging agriculture conservation issues
keep members up to speed on our p ... more. |
Attend the 6th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture (WCCA) to learn, discuss and network about Soil Health and Wallet Wealth. Agricultural production systems are not sustainable unless they are profitable, and Conservation Agriculture (CA) holds the key to building and maintaining healthy soils and profitable farming systems.
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CTIC Bronze Corporate Member, Koch Agronomic Services, L.L.C. and its subsidiaries, are collective one of the world's largest producers and marketers of fertilizers. The company owns or has interests in fertilizer plants in the United States, Canada, and Trinidad and Tobago. Its distribution network covers global demand through state-of-the-art terminals in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, France and the United Kingdom. To lear ... more. |
Koch is one of the largest producers and marketers of fertilizer in the world. Our Agrotain nitrogen stabilizer controls nitrogen loss for higher yields and better environmental performance. Our network of national experts and local representatives connects Koch Agronomic Services with the fertilizer dealers and farmers who can harness the benefits of Agrotain. |
Soil Conservation Council of Canada
Conseil de Conservation des sols Canada
The Soil Conservation Council of Canada (SCCC) is a non-government, producer directed organization that is the face and voice for soil conservation in Canada. Our national network is a collaboration that involves; provincial soil conservation associations, non-government organizations, industry and government.
Mission, Goals and Contact Information
www.soilcc.ca
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This site is intended to bring together those having manure with those needing manure and includes a manure management planner. There are many other links to resources as well, including a listing of many Midwest testing labs, manure spreader calibration information, compost tipsheets and much more.
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News Source: Focus on Nutrient Management (PDF, 764 KB)
38 Nutrient Management Initiative Sites Established in 2009
Soil Fertility Research Program Approved by Legislature
Mining Soil Fertility Can Be Costly!
How do I Determine My Nitrogen Rate?
Nutrient Management and USDA-NRCS Conservation Programs
Fall Nitrogen Best Management Practices and Soil Temperature Network Pilot Proj
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CTIC Corporate Member, Case IH, is an American mechanical company, one of the world's largest brands of agricultural equipment. With headquarters in Racine, Wisconsin, it has a network of more than 4,000 dealers and distributors that operates in more than 160 countries. Case IH is owned by CNH Global. To learn more about Case IH, visit www.caseih.com/northamerica.
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... of natural resources go hand in hand;
•A visit to the Archer Ruffin farm, to learn about carbon markets and profitable conservation, and to engage in a farmer panel focused on conservation;
•Lunch at the Shirley Plantation, the oldest family-owned business in North America, featuring presentations about the Chesapeake Bay watershed;
•A stop at Carter farm to learn about successful no-till cotton production in cool soil temperatures;
The Shirley Plantation, Charles City, Virginia.
Photo Courtesy of Charles Carter.
•A visit to the Paul Davis farm to take part in a series of presentations on how agriculture will play a significant role in re ... more. |
CTIC is seeking a Communications Director to help develop, deliver and monitor programs, messages and materials to promote conservation agriculture. The position involves regular communications with but not limited to federal, state and local government agencies; agriculture industry, media and associations; conservation groups and watershed partnerships. This position may also be responsible for grant-funded projects that involve technology transfer, publications, information dissemination, media relations or other communication-related outcomes.
Major Responsibilities
edit and write quarterly online magazine and e-newsletter
solicit advertisers for online magazine
write and distribute news relea ... more. |
... brand-new website at www.ctic.org. The easy-to-search, simple-to-navigate site contains thousands of documents and links to information on conservation farming systems. Among the highlights are:
A searchable database from the Operational Tillage Information System (OpTIS), which uses satellite imagery to provide detailed data on tillage practices and cover crops at the county or watershed (HUC-8) scale;
Cover crop insight, including details of the economic and environmental benefits of cover crops and the results of five annual farmer surveys on cover crop use;
Tips on organizing watershed groups and multi-stakeholder conservation efforts, including tips, analysis of knowledge transfer, and ideas for creating effective demonstration plots;
Real-world perspective on conservat ... more. |
... or tile outlets through outreach and feedback event
Determine the impacts of spring application and fall application of nitrogen on nutrient use efficiency on field site
Three monitoring stations collect tile water at a Livingston County, IL farm field.
These objectives help reach the ultimate goal of improving yields and/or reducing N loading into the Vermilion River Watershed as a result of implementing a better N management system.
Project results will include water quality monitoring data associated with NUE in-field calculations as well as demonstrations of the usability of tile outlet monitoring by producers, the cost effectiveness of these monitoring solutions for measuring nutrient loss and the impact of associated outreach efforts to increase ado ... more. |
... Program” (PLUS-UP) program, coordinated by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), will pay farmers in the project area $5 to $10 per acre in 2022 to reduce P loads using practices such as no-till or cover crops.
"The PLUS-UP program will provide a financial incentive for conservation practices that help farmers reduce phosphorus loading in the Lake Erie watershed, keep their nutrients where their crops can use them, and build soil health," says Hans Kok, CTIC program director. "Bayer Crop Science has purchased phosphorus credits to provide these PLUS-UP incentives, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has supported the development of a market mechanism that could be sustainable well into the future."
Through educational ... more. |
... leaders, and others gathered on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay for CTIC’s “Bringing Back the Bay” Conservation in Action Tour July 10 and 11.
The Chesapeake Bay has become the proving ground for a wide range of best management practices (BMPs) designed to protect the fragile system from excess nutrients and sediments flowing in from a 64,000-square-mile watershed that reaches all the way into New York State. Area farmers have become experts in managing nutrients at every level, from applying manure and commercial fertilizer to minimizing runoff from their fields.
In addition to perspectives on innovative practices from a range of crop, dairy and poultry producers, Conservation in Action Tour participants heard from Hoopers Island Oyster Compa ... more. |
... position of Project Director please click here.
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
The CTIC Communications Director will develop, deliver and monitor programs, messages and materials to promote conservation agriculture. He/she will communicate regularly with, among others, federal, state and local government agencies; agriculture industry, media and associations; conservation groups and watershed partnerships. This position will also be responsible for grant-funded projects that involve technology transfer, publications, information dissemination, media relations or other communication-related outcomes. For more information about the position of Project Director please click here.
COMMUNICATIONS INTERN
The CTIC Communications Intern will assist CTIC staff in creating comm ... more. |
... are available for vegetation type, herbaceous net primary productivity (NPP), herbaceous NPP trends, and herbaceous NPP deviation from what would be expected based on weather alone.
Remote-sensing derived, CONUS-wide grassland data for various vegetation type and health metrics. Data are currently available for the years 2015-2021. The vegetation health data are available at the watershed (HUC8) and Crop Reporting District (CRD) geographic scales.
Explore the Vegetation Types and Productivity
Vegetation Types
Annual average plant functional type (PFT) by HUC8 and CRD for years spanning 2015 to 2021.
PFTs include: Annual Forbs & Grasses, Perennial Forbs & Grasses, Shrubs, Trees, and Bare Ground.
View Data
Data Release April 2024
Herb ... more. |
... compensation that could include payment for practices already in place.
On June 30, 2020, we brought together farmers, crop advisers, commodity groups and other farm organizations, academia, for a web conference on how to shape this program to make it both farmer-friendly and attractive to credits buyers. Slides from that discussion are available here.
Big Pine Watershed Water Quality Metric Trial
C is assisting Field to Market with a small-scale pilot of an improved water quality metric for Field to Market's FieldPrint Calculator. This effort will leverage relationships developed through the Big Pine Watershed project to collect farm management data and farmer feedback on the new metric.
Supporting Supply Chain Sustainability
CTIC recently began a n ... more. |
Argonne National Laboratory found a home for its biomass test site on the Ray Popejoy farm in the Indian Creek watershed.
Argonne is exploring the potential for farmers to employ underused or marginal land to produce crops for biomass energy. Factors studied include economic potential and water quality benefits.
As this project moves forward, funding from the Department of Energy is expected to support the scientific investigation and field study. Agribusiness will assist with identifying potential supply ... more. |
Water Quality Credit Trading Workshop
July 8-9, 2009
Sherrodsville, Ohio
Speaker Presentations:
Ohio's Water Quality Trading Rules - Gary Stuhlfauth, Ohio EPA
Ohio's Great Miami River Watershed - Dusty Hall, The Miami Conservancy District
Great Miami River Watershed Water Quality Credit Trading Program - Sarah Hippensteel
Community-Based Water Quality Trading: The Alpine Water Quality Trading Plan - Dr. Richard Moore, The Ohio State University
Water Quality Credit Trading Workshop - Jim Klang, Kieser & Associates
WQT Workshop Role-playing Exercise - Jim Klang, Ki ... more. |
Cover crops alter many aspects of the hydrologic cycle.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Cover crop impacts on watershed hydrology.
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Date
Location
Contact
February 21
Ogemaw County
Ogemaw Co MSU Extension Office
Rifle River Watershed
West Branch, MI
Paul Gross
989-772-0911x302
grossp@msu.edu
March 15
Allegan County
Trestle Stop Restaurant
Macatawa watershed
Hamilton, MI
Christina Currell
231-745-2732
curellc@msu.edu
... more. |
Click for the Grand Lake St. Mary’s/Wabash Watershed Action Plan.
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Everyone Impacts a Watershed
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... Deere, The Mosaic Company, The Andersons and Specialty Fertilizer Products participated in the tour’s Conservation Technology Expo and talked one-on-one with tour attendees about their products that support conservation agriculture.
The day ended with comments by U.S. Representative Marcy Kaptur, who shared her love of the area and her commitment to conservation of the Maumee River watershed and Lake Erie. View her talk .
CTIC and AGROTAIN International sponsored media coverage by AgWired (for in-depth stories, interviews and photos visit Agwired). Find additional coverage at Farm Futures' tour article "Tour Proves Why Conservation is Still Cool" and No-Till Farmer's tweets the day of the event. CTIC thanks all members of the media who attended.
... more. |
... local residents.
While the generators spin out 1 megawatt (MW) of electricity per day—enough to supply about half of what IEUA consumes—the environment wins in other ways, too. Odors and pathogens are controlled, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter are reduced by 99 percent and more than five tons of salts and nitrates are kept out of the Santa Ana River watershed. Meanwhile, solids separated from the processed manure—135 tons per day—are sold as organic fertilizer.
It’s a shining example of the capabilities of a community system, but it’s hardly a get-rich-quick scheme. “As a public utility, we’re just trying to cover our costs,” says Rich Atwater, IEUA’s CEO and general manager. “The renewable e ... more. |
... in the soil.
A webinar on Friday, April 14 will delve into the new data, new algorithm, and an exploration of how people are using OpTIS in their research. Check ctic.org/OpTIS for webinar details in the coming weeks.
Free Online Access
An intuitive visualization tool on the CTIC website (ctic.org/OpTIS) allows users to explore the data, zooming in on watersheds of interest and moving sliders to vary the date range they want to study. OpTIS data are available free on the site at the HUC 8 watershed or Crop Reporting District (CRD) level. CTIC members have access to customized data formats, and finer granularity can be arranged through Regrow via its Sustainability Insights platform.
“Since its introduction in 2019, OpTIS has provided ... more. |
... level of precision allows farmers to become more cost-efficient and supports overall soil health, which, in turn, contributes to the social and environmental objectives of 4R nutrient stewardship.
Environmental health and safety is a priority
In the Chesapeake Bay region, researchers are measuring the amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment pollution at sites in the Bay watershed. Following determination of a total maximum daily load (TMDL) for the Bay, project will be implemented to demonstrate best methods to reduce nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment on agricultural and forest lands.
In Florida, stringent nutrient reduction criteria are being contemplated. In the Gulf of Mexico, fertilizers continue to be scrutinized as a primary contributor to hypoxic reg ... more. |
... practices themselves is wise.
Watering cups cut water waste by 50 percent, reducing the volume of manure and increasing its nutrient concentration.
Photo courtesy of Steve Werblow
"We have been hard at work to reach farmers in Missouri's Bootheel, in south-central and southeastern Minnesota, and in the upper Wabash River watershed, which flows from Ohio through 12 counties in Indiana," Jones says. "At a meeting in early March, I met with representatives of Bootheel Resource Conservation and Development, Inc. and experts from the University of Missouri, the Missouri Corn Growers Association, and others, to look at the latest tools and techniques in farm nutrient management. There is a lot to talk about that makes ... more. |
... and profitable conservation;
lunch at the Shirley Plantation, the oldest family-owned business in North America;
the Carter farm where no-till cotton grows successfully in cool soil temperatures; and
a series of presentations at the Paul Davis farm. These will include how agriculture will play a significant role in removing water quality impairments in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, and what Clean Water Act and Total Maximum Daily Load regulations could mean to agriculture and the region.
The day will end with a steak dinner on the banks of the Pamunkey River, a major tributary to the Chesapeake Bay. Plan to join us on Aug. 2 for a social event the evening before the one-day tour. Lodging and travel details will be available soon on the CTIC Web site, www.ctic. ... more. |
... satellite images of the landscape through software developed by Applied GeoSolutions, OpTIS automatically identifies and quantifies various types of tillage and cover crop systems. Although the source data is captured at a resolution of 30 meters and tables are accurate to the acre, OpTIS ensures grower privacy by reporting and mapping at the USDA crop reporting district or HUC 8 watershed scale.
CTIC, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and Applied GeoSolutions have spearheaded the development, testing and promotion of OpTIS. Dr. David Gustafson, OpTIS project director for CTIC, points out that the trove of tillage system data is a natural update to CTIC's role as the go-to source for information on tillage pra ... more. |
... an NPDES permit.
Clearly, the bottom line is that anyone helping livestock producers navigate the regulatory straits will need to keep a close eye on the words used in the regulation, as well as EPA guidance on manmade devices “similar to” ditches.
The stakes, and the potential benefits, are high for both the medium-sized producer and the rest of the stakeholders in their watershed. Applying for an NPDES permit can be expensive and time-consuming—a particular challenge for relatively modest-sized farms—and compliance can require expensive modifications to a farm operation. Clear-eyed assessment and a clear sense of water quality regulations can help medium AFO operators protect water quality while reducing their regulatory burden.
CAFO vs. AFO
At their m ... more. |
... Restoration Initiative (GLRI) grant by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA Region 5 Administrator Kurt Thiede announced today in a Chicago press event that the agency will fund the groups' three-year project—which uses satellite data, sophisticated models, farmer training programs, and direct incentives to create a market-driven reduction in phosphorus (P) runoff in the Ohio watersheds—with more than $472,000.
Mike Komp, CTIC's executive director, pointed out that the project will link not only extensive data collection, modeling, and on-the-ground action, but also link farmers with food companies and other players in the agricultural supply chain seeking to improve water quality.
“This grant will kick start an effort to link fa ... more. |
... In Action Tour. On this one-day tour in western Illinois, we will visit farms where conservation agriculture systems are put in to action — to help protect resources and to build a profitable operation. Through conservation practices, including nutrient management plans developed by producers and their advisors, these farmers are minimizing agriculture's impact on the Mississippi River watershed. CTIC staff will be sending additional details about the tour over the next few months. So please save the date, sign up for the tour and visit these successful farms with us.
In addition to joining us on the tour, I hope you will accept my invitation to attend our next board meeting, which will be the day after the tour, July 30, 2009, in Moline, Ill.
On behalf of the entire CTIC Boa ... more. |
... practices in their profitable operations.
Starkey Farms Partnership , Brownsburg, Indiana
• 8 years of continuous no-till
• Gradually incorporated 200 acres of annual ryegrass as cover crop
• Gypsum added as a soil amendment to improve soil structure and infiltration
• Tile Nitrogen outflow monitored by a local university because the farm is within a watershed that supplies drinking water to nearby Indianapolis
Lamb Farms , Lebanon, Indiana
• 84% of corn and soybeans are no-till or strip-till
• RTK systems used to apply and manage nutrients
• 98 percent of compost produced is used on their farm for fertilizer and soil amendment
• Nearly 50 acres of conservation buffers along ditches
Meadowlane Farms , Frankfort, ... more. |
... uses remote sensing (satellite-based) data to monitor conservation practices in agricultural systems, including various forms of reduced tillage and the planting of winter cover crops. While the OpTIS calculations are performed and validated at the farm-field scale, the privacy of individual producers is fully protected by distributing only spatially-aggregated results – at the county and watershed (8-digit HUC) scale.
CTIC has been the primary source of this type of conservation practice monitoring data for nearly 30 years. In partnership with USDA and many others, the CTIC curates and distributes the National Crop Residue Management (CRM) Survey, collected using validated transect methods – annually in most states from 1989 through 2004, and again in 2006 and 2008. OpTIS fills cr ... more. |
... harmful algae blooms in Lake Erie.
Our goal with the PLUS-UP pilot project has been to develop an efficient, effective program. That's why we focused on DRP, which is completely available to algae (and to crops, making its loss from farms a big economic blow as well as an environmental one). University researchers have calculated the economic damage caused by DRP in the Lake Erie watershed at over $1,000 per pound, based on direct costs like drinking water treatment and indirect ones like damage to tourism and the fishing industry.
To help drive this pilot effort to develop a procedure for understanding, incentivizing and reducing DRP in surface waters, The Bayer Carbon Program stepped up to underwrite the DRP credits. In turn, we are delivering those funds to prog ... more. |
... harmful algae blooms in Lake Erie.
Our goal with the PLUS-UP pilot project has been to develop an efficient, effective program. That's why we focused on DRP, which is completely available to algae (and to crops, making its loss from farms a big economic blow as well as an environmental one). University researchers have calculated the economic damage caused by DRP in the Lake Erie watershed at over $1,000 per pound, based on direct costs like drinking water treatment and indirect ones like damage to tourism and the fishing industry.
To help drive this pilot effort to develop a procedure for understanding, incentivizing and reducing DRP in surface waters, The Bayer Carbon Program stepped up to underwrite the DRP credits. In turn, we are delivering those funds to prog ... more. |
... are used include:
assess successes of Farm Bill programs, state and local-level initiatives
document what farmers save in fuel usage at the county, state and national levels
track the progress of, and measure trends in, conservation tillage adoption
prioritize areas for program focus, such as Conservation Stewardship Program
provide assessment data as a core component of local watershed management plans.
Activities
CTIC is working to develop new software that will simplify the collection process, allow data to upload to CTIC's web site with a click of a button and tie collection points to GPS coordinates. With Purdue University, CTIC is exploring the use of remote sensing technology to estimate residue cover and, ideally, increase efficiency and accuracy of ... more. |
CTIC champions, promotes and provides information on technologies and sustainable agricultural systems that conserve and enhance soil, water, air and wildlife resources, and are productive and profitable.
Lead Projects
CTIC is a leader and collaborator in projects that address conservation agriculture's most important topics. Funded by public investments, foundation grants, agribusiness and private donations, our p ... more. |
THIS IS THE PERFECT YEAR TO BE PART OF CTIC
2022 is the perfect time to join CTIC- join CTIC as a member as we celebrate our 40th anniversary and hostour annual tour.
https://ctic.org/Membership/Membership_Info
YOUR MEMBERSHIP IN CTIC SUPPORTS:
• Innovations in tracking the adoption of conservation on the ground...from field-level validation to online surveys to remote sensing
• Demonstrations of conservation systems
• Education on everything from cover crop establishment to cutting-edge tools ... more. |
... and manage small wastewater treatment systems in their jurisdictions. It's designed to track information related to homes and facilities served, permits, site evaluations, types of systems, inspections and complaints.
STEPL provides a user friendly Visual Basic (VB) interface to create a customized spreadsheet-based model in Microsoft (MS) Excel. It computes watershed surface runoff, nutrient loads, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and 5-day biological oxygen demand (BOD 5), and sediment delivery based on various land uses and management practices. The pollutant sources include major nonpoint sources such as cropland, pastureland, farm animals, feedlots, urban runoff, and failing septic systems.
Click here to register.
... more. |
... water quality results from reducing amounts of nutrients, chemicals, animal waste and sediment entering the stream.
Buffer zones provide cover and habitat for birds and small animals.
Planning ahead
Have you planned to install an offstream water system for livestock or limited livestock access to the stream?
Are proper soil conservation measures installed in the stream watershed to prevent siltation of buffer zones and streambed?
Will a stream crossing be needed for livestock?
Tech notes
Fence livestock out of the stream.
Smooth streambanks to provide an adequate seedbed for vegetation.
The vegetation area along streambanks should be between 15 and 25 feet wide. *
Remove fallen trees, stumps and debris that might cause turbulence in the stream.
Remove t ... more. |
... application of the Operational Tillage Information System (OpTIS), an automated system to map tillage, residue cover, winter cover, and soil health practices using remote sensing data. While OpTIS calculations are performed at the farm-field scale using publicly available data, the privacy of individual producers is fully protected by reporting only spatially-aggregated results at regional and watershed scales.
OpTIS-based data are currently available for the years 2015 through 2021. TheVersion 4.0 dataset released in September 2023 uses updated algorithms for croplands in alllower 48 states (CONUS). The data are presented in the context of a two-year crop rotation with options to review by the previous and following cash crop for both tillage and cover crops. Both the OpTIS and D ... more. |
... DNDC Modeling
Data are available for soil carbon changes and GHG emissions.
The soil and GHG outcomes (methane, as well as indirect and direct nitrous oxide) are based on the use of the vegetation type and herbaceous productivity data as input to the DNDC model. Data are currently available for the years 2015-2021. The croplands DNDC modeling results are available at the watershed (HUC8) and Crop Reporting District (CRD) scales.
View Data
Data Release September 2023
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... Agriculture BMPs.
BMP Effectiveness--Harris Bayou
Conservation In Action Tour 2013
Stay tuned for more information on next year's Conservation in Action Tour slated to take place at the Indian Creek watershed in Illinois.
Thank you to all sponsors of the Conservation in Action Tour. We appreciate your support and value your contributions to make this event a valuable and enjoyable experience.
Tour Leader:
Evening Social Sponsor:
Dinner Sponsor:
... more. |
... new look and retrieving information about conservation agriculture will be easier than ever.
Our 2018 Conservation in Action Tour will be held in the Maryland/Washington D.C. area this summer. Plans are already underway, and we’re thrilled to share more information with you in the coming months.
Working with USDA on a project to highlight successful strategies for organizing local watershed protection efforts that engage local stakeholders and effectively communicate how agriculture is actively addressing water quality concerns.
Helping farmers and members of the supply chain document how they are sustainably providing commodities to downstream partners and how farming more sustainably can have a positive impact on the farmer’s bottom line.
Working with partners to impleme ... more. |
... new look and retrieving information about conservation agriculture will be easier than ever.
Our 2018 Conservation in Action Tour will be held in the Maryland/Washington D.C. area this summer. Plans are already underway, and we’re thrilled to share more information with you in the coming months.
Working with USDA on a project to highlight successful strategies for organizing local watershed protection efforts that engage local stakeholders and effectively communicate how agriculture is actively addressing water quality concerns.
Helping farmers and members of the supply chain document how they are sustainably providing commodities to downstream partners and how farming more sustainably can have a positive impact on the farmer’s bottom line.
Working with partners to impleme ... more. |
... member The Mosiac Company, institutional member The Fertilizer Insititute and individual member Joe Glassmeyer.
Thanks for your membership!
CORPORATE
CTIC recognizes Gold Corporate Member, The Mosaic Company, in our member spotlight. The Mosaic Company sponsors our 30th Anniversary, the Indian Creek Watershed Project and serving as Tour Leader sponsor for the Conservation In Action Tour for the second year in a row. The Mosaic Company is the world's leading producer and marketer of concentrated phosphate and potash, two of the primary nutrients required to grow the food the world needs.
INSTITUTIONAL
... more. |
... application afforded the highest yields
Spring application revealed most efficient nitrogen use
Fall application displayed lower economic return on nitrogen, due to nitrogen losses
Fall timing had lowest yield
Split timing was better than fall but not as good as spring application
We encourage other farmers in the watershed to adopt this approach to collecting information critical to making fully informed nitrogen management decisions.
*International Plant Nutrition Institute designed the Crop Nutrient Response Tool to assist interpretation and record-keeping for on-farm field crop trials involving multiple rates of any added nutrient. It provides the an estimate of optimum rate for a sing ... more. |
... and monitor programs, messages and materials to promote conservation agriculture. He/she will assist CTIC staff in creating communications and information material that supports CTIC projects, promotes CTIC and provides value to our membership. Audiences include, among others, federal, state and local government agencies; agriculture industry, media and associations; conservation groups and watershed partnerships.
This paid position is available June 1, 2011, for full-time (40-hour week) work through the summer. Qualified interns may extend the work period, at part-time status, through December 2011.
See the job description (here) to learn more. Contact Amber Gritter (gritter@ctic.org) to apply.
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Intro to Watershed Planning & 9 Elements
Getting the Big Picture
Purposes of Chemical, Physical, and Biological Monitoring
Common Monitoring Parameters
Accessing Existing and Web Based Data
Using Hoosier RiverWatch Data for Assessment and Planning
Observational Approaches to Monitoring and Assessment
Characterizing Baseline Water Body Conditions
Interpreting and Using Existing Data to Identify P ... more. |
Remote-sensing derived, CONUS-wide cropland data for the adoption of two important conservation practices (cover crops and reduced tillage), as well as soil and GHG outcomes based on the use of these practice-adoption data as input to the DNDC model.
Data are currently available for the years 2015-2021. All data are available at the watershed (HUC8) and Crop Reporting District (CRD) geographic scales.
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... fertilizer in the fall, in a strip-tilled area. He harvested the plots with his yield-monitor-equipped combine.
We analyzed his yield data along with fertilizer rate and other data including field observations and soil and plant analysis and we used the Crop Nutrient Response Tool* to determine the maximum economic rate of nitrogen: 212 pounds per acre.
We encourage other farmers in the watershed to adopt this approach to collecting information critical to making fully informed nitrogen management decisions.
*International Plant Nutrition Institute designed the Crop Nutrient Response Tool to assist interpretation and record-keeping for on-farm field crop trials involving multiple rates of any added nutrient. It provides the an estimate of optimum rate for a single-year response - t ... more. |
... The first-ever CTIC Dialogues briefed Washington, DC, staffers on how good policy yields good conservation.
• The 6th World Congress on Conservation Agriculture brought people from 51 countries to Winnipeg to share their insight and BMPs.
• We hosted a hypoxia panel for leading farm journalists at the Agricultural Media Summit.
• Our Indian Creek Watershed Project yielded a highly successful tour and three great presentations at the 2014 International Soil and Water Conservation Society Annual Conference.
• We kicked off our 2.5-year Economic, Agronomic and Environmental Benefits of Cover Crops CIG project.
• Our 7th annual Conservation in Action Tour brought more than 150 conservation-minded participants to Florida for a look at cutt ... more. |
... webinar in our OpTIS series. This webinar focuses on how a variety of users are employing the DeNitrification-DeComposition (DNDC) model with data from the OpTIS tool to estimate the influence of soil-health-building practices on soil carbon and nitrogen dynamics. Run through DNDC, the OpTIS data set provides deep insights into the environmental effects of conservation agriculture practices at watershed and landscape scales.
Using Satellite Imagery Data to Understand Trends in Conservation Agriculture Practices
May 29, 2020
Description: A webinar on OpTIS (Operational Tillage Information System), an automated system that uses satellite imagery data to understand trends in conservation agriculture practices.
Informational Animation
OpTIS:
New Data Dri ... more. |
... (OpTIS) to help model water quality. Register here for the webinar and question-and-answer session with the panel.
Speakers during the live, hour-long "OpTIS 3.0: Unlocking Water Quality Insights" program will include:
Dr. Asmita Murumkar, The Ohio State University, using OpTIS data on tillage and cover crops in their modeling work in Ohio's Upper Scioto River watershed and Maumee basin.
Soren Rundquist, Regrow Ag, with updates on cover crop trends from 2015 to 2021, derived from Regrow’s proprietary and recently improved OpTIS algorithm. OpTIS utilizes publicly available satellite imagery to track tillage practices and cover crop adoption around the globe.
Dr. Dave Gustafson, Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), using OpTIS data to quant ... more. |
... carbon and nitrogen dynamics. The one-hour webinar will be held Friday, October 16, at 11:00 am EDT.
When the OpTIS data set—a ground-validated analysis of conservation adoption that spans 2006 to 2018 across most of the Corn Belt—is run through the DNDC model, it provides an outstanding depth of insight on the environmental effects of conservation farming practices adopted on watershed and landscape scales.
We will be joined by:
Ward Smith, Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada
Steve Rozenzweig, General Mills
Debbie Reed, Ecosystem Service Market Consortium
In addition, Bill Salas of Dagan, Inc. will explore the possibilities and nuances of using DNDC to mine OpTIS data for insights into changes in soil carbon, nitrous oxide emissions and nitrate leaching.
There ... more. |
... with people you wouldn't ordinarily get to walk around a farm with," says Tim Palmer, who is co-chairing the Conservation in Action Tour planning committee with fellow CTIC board member Peyton Harper.
"It's a great opportunity for a farmer like me to sit down with an EPA official from headquarters, a scientist from the university, a conservation biologist from a watershed project and a sales rep from a big manufacturer and talk about what we're seeing that day," Palmer adds.
Sponsorship opportunities are available—contact Crystal Hatfield at the CTIC office (765/494-9555 or hatfield@ctic.org) to learn more. Currently, John Deere is once again sponsoring the opening night social on August 20. The Mosaic Company and Bayer CropScience are Diamon ... more. |
Great Lakes Cover Crop Initiative The Great Lakes Cover Crop Initiative (GLCCI) is a regional effort to establish 15 thousand acres of cover crops in the Lake Michigan, Lake Erie and Lake Huron watersheds in three years.
This goal will be accomplished through extensive outreach through field days, workshops and other conservation events. In addition to the outreach events, GLCCI coordinators are working in each watershed to give farmers one on one consultations to help them establish successful cover crops and learn to manage their systems to include growing acres of cover crops.
... more. |
... one that took well over a year to achieve through a seemingly endless series of Zoom calls. So far, Covid has prevented us from holding a kick-off meeting or workshop, but we have been able to launch our first market for dissolved reactive phosphorus in the Western Lake Erie Basin.
Here are the highlights, by the numbers:
10 growers in the Maumee, Sandusky, and Cedar-Portage watersheds signed up
5,000 acres enrolled in PLUS-UP
Bayer Carbon Program underwrites DRP credits
Participating farmers are sharing field data from the 2021 cropping season and the winter of 2021-2022 with the National Center for Water Quality Research at Heidelberg University. The Heidelberg team will use those details to calculate the effect of each farmer's conservation practi ... more. |
Urban Stream Restoration Field Manual
This manual contains urban stream rehabilitation techniques, measured in-stream enhancements of fisheries, habitat, and bethnos, fluvial geomorphic analysis of streams and resulting effects of watershed and stream alterations, and rural applications of the selected stream rehabilitation techniques. These are all described using a straight-forward approach. The manual is full color and 143-pages.
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... Farmer, August 2018
Landowners Support Cover Crops
Corn and Soybean Digest, August 2018
Time Is Money
Corn and Soybean Digest, July 2018
Nitrogen Cycling and Cover Crops
Corn and Soybean Digest, June 2018
All In On Cover Crop
Corn and Soybean Digest, April 2018
Study Links Best Management Practices To Cleaner Watershed
Environmental Change Initiative, June 2016
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Today there are thousands of Confined Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) nationally that require an National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)permit. Producers and their technical service providers need specialized informationand assistance with new technologies to resolve livestock waste management issues and address water quality concerns.
Collaborative watershed effortsfocused on managing livestock waste need resourcesto help inform the public and the producers.
Project Partner
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5
Activities
This project employs information technology transfer through published articles in CTIC's Partners online magazine, a manure management web site with links toinnovative techn ... more. |
National Soil Tilth Laboratory
USDA Agricultural Research Service
Established 1989
Research laboratory within the USDA-ARS organization charged with conducting research on farming systems and their impact on air, soil, and water quality. Multidisciplinary research teams address problems using multiple scales of studies that range from basic laboratory analyses of soils to watershed and regional assessment of farming systems impacts on environmental quality and production efficiency.
Mission, Goals and Contact Information
www.ars.usda.gov/mwa/ames/nstl
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... farming systems. In short, we Connect, Inform and Champion to encourage the adoption of practices that protect soil, water and air quality as well as farmers’ economic sustainability.
There has never been a better time to join CTIC. We’ve got great programs in the field and a clearinghouse full of information on everything from selecting the right cover crops to organizing watershed-wide conservation projects.
In addition to the information below, a membership application is now available online at https://www.ctic.org/Membership/Join
Here you will be able to pay your membership dues online with a credit card (available for memberships up to $2,000) request an invoice, or provide us with special billing instructions.
You can find out even more about what CTIC has to ... more. |
... of remote sensing (satellite-based) data to monitor conservation practices in agricultural systems, including various forms of reduced tillage and the planting of winter cover crops. While the OpTIS calculations are performed and validated at the farm-field scale, the privacy of individual producers is fully protected by distributing only spatially-aggregated results – at the county and watershed (8-digit HUC) scale.
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Registration has opened for the 2013 Conservation In Action Tour! Join us on July 9 and 10 in Livingston, Ill., as we explore innovative conservation practices in and around the Indian Creek watershed. Celebrating the theme of Community 4 Conservation, this year's tour will bring together agriculture leaders from all over the country – including farmers, crop advisors, regulators and lawmakers – to learn and share conservation practices.
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CTIC and farmer leaders will host an informative field tour on July 10, 2012 for participants interested in learning more about products, practices, equipment and technology that are both profitable and responsible. The tour, a funtion of the Indian Creek Watershed Project, will showcase Livingston County farms and field trials in Fairbury, Illinois.
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Illinois EPA and other partners will conduct water quality monitoring in the watershed to document and determine if conservation practices are making a difference.
This project funded in part by IL EPA through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act. |
Economic Benefits with Environmental Protection
Explores many of the challenges, opportunities management tactics and successful marketing efforts that helped shape promotion of conservation in the Great Lakes watershed and North Central region.
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Environmental Change Initiative, June 2016
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Mississippi River Gulf of Mexico Watershed Nutrient Task Force
Hypoxia in the Northern Gulf of Mexico--Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium
USGS Hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico Studies
National Ocean Service
Gulf of Mexico Hypoxia Watch
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CTIC Projects « Connecting People « Indian Creek Watershed Project « Application Timing
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CTIC Projects « Connecting People « Indian Creek Watershed Project « SUPERU
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CTIC Projects « Connecting People « Indian Creek Watershed Project « Strip-till Nitrogen
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CTIC Projects « Connecting People « Indian Creek Watershed Project « Strip Tillage Fall Nitrogen Application
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CTIC Projects « Connecting People « Indian Creek Watershed Project « Slow Release Fertilizer
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CTIC Projects « Connecting People « Indian Creek Watershed Project « Phosphorus Sidedress with MicroEssentials®
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CTIC Projects « Connecting People « Indian Creek Watershed Project « Nitrogen Application Timing
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CTIC Projects « Connecting People « Indian Creek Watershed Project
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CTIC Projects « Connecting People « Indian Creek Watershed Project « Agrium's ESN® v. Urea
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The Indian Creek Watershed Project demonstrated the power of voluntary conservation practices to impact local water quality. Hear local farmers explain how their community banded together to put conservation systems into action.
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Mark your calendars for the annual Indian Creek Summer Tour on July 16. Click here to download the tour flyer.
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Plan on joining us summer 2013 in Fairbury, Ill. at the Indian Creek Watershed for another unforgettable Tour.
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Know Your Watershed
Livestock Waste Management
Core 4
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Quick Links
> Topics A-Z
> Upstream Heroes
> Livestock Waste Management
> Know Your Watershed
> Online Store
> Become a Member
> Contact CTIC
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What's Next? Emerging Concerns
How well do Coliphages Predict the Presence and Concentrations of Human Enteric Viruses in Water and Wastewater?
Mark Sobsey
Speaker Bio
Dr. Mark Sobsey specializes in environmental health microbiology and water, sanitation and hygiene. His research, teaching and service encompass the detection, characterization, occurrence, environmental survival/transport/fate, treatment, human health effects characterization and risk assessment o ... more. |
To better manage nutrients, Lancaster County, Penn. dairy producers install manure storage tanks as part of their conservation plans.
Photo courtesy of USDA-NRCS
Manure Du Jour
Serving Pennsylvania's Best Practices on Animal Ag. Air, and Water Quality
By Kristen Saacke-Blunk
Pennsylvania dairy cow.
Photo courtesy of USDA-NRCS.
In January 2009, Penn State Cooperative Extension and its Agriculture and Environment Center debuted the Manure du jour webcast series in response to findings of the 2008 Agriculture in Balance conference. At the conference, Pennsylvania’s agriculture ... more. |
Calculating the value—either in terms of nutrients or dollars—of manure isn’t easy. But understanding the variables and tuning into innovative tools can help.
Photo courtesy of Steve Werblow
Manure: What’s It Worth?
by Steve Werblow
Most farmers and agronomists agree that manure has enjoyed a change in status in recent years, from a waste material to a valuable resource. But the challenge remains in figuring ou ... more. |
The Mosaic 2009 Sustainability Report focuses on six core principles, one of which is ensuring environmental stewardship for responsible land and natural resource use.
Photo courtesy of CTIC
Leading the way
Mosaic Company is a pioneer of progression in agricultural sustainability
By Christy Couch Lee
Just five years ago, the Mosaic Company launched as the second-largest crop nutrition firm, when Cargill Crop Nutrition and IMC Global Inc, joi ... more. |
EPA's New CAFO Rule Changes "Duty to Apply" for NPEDS Permit
Nutrient management plans and voluntary NPDES permits may be helpful to confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs) – even if they do not discharge or don’t propose to discharge water from their operations.
EPA's New CAFO Rule Changes "Duty to Apply"
for NPDES Permit
By Steve Werblow
A new rule for confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs) requires o ... more. |
New PED Talks Video Series Digs into Soil Health
West Lafayette, Ind., Oct. 29, 2019 -- A series of 10-to-15-minute, science-centered “PED Talks” on soil health has been posted on YouTube. Soil peds are aggregated particles of sand, silt, clay and organic matter. Like their namesake, PED Talks combine soil-related topics including explanations of soil health, how we can improve it, and the progress that’s being made to ensure we have the healthy soils necessary to feed, clothe and fuel the world in the future.
The PED Talks series was created by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), Soil ... more. |
New PED Talks Video Series Digs into Soil Health
West Lafayette, Ind., Oct. 29, 2019 -- A series of 10-to-15-minute, science-centered “PED Talks” on soil health has been posted on YouTube. Soil peds are aggregated particles of sand, silt, clay and organic matter. Like their namesake, PED Talks combine soil-related topics including explanations of soil health, how we can improve it, and the progress that’s being made to ensure we have the healthy soils necessary to feed, clothe and fuel the world in the future.
The PED Talks series was created by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), Soil Health Ins ... more. |
Tilling this quarter section of cornstalks in a three-pass program could consume 404 gallons of diesel and take 37 hours. Spraying with a burndown herbicide for a no-till program cuts it back to 20 gallons of fuel and two hours of time.
Photo courtesy of Steve Werblow
Fast vs. Fuel - The New No-Till Debate
By Steve Werblow
Skyrocketing fuel and fertilizer bills have tempered some of the enthusiasm over unprecedented commodity prices. It s ... more. |
... freely at http://www.ctic.org/OpTIS—can be customized by timeframe, units, crops and geographic area. While OpTIS calculations are performed and validated at the farm-field scale using publicly available remotely sensed data, the privacy of all individuals is fully protected by reporting only spatially-aggregated results at larger geographic scales (Crop Reporting Districts and HUC8 watersheds).
More so, OpTIS users can be confident that they are receiving the best available analysis. During a pilot program in Indiana, AGS, CTIC and TNC used 10 years' worth of tillage transect data to ground-truth the OpTIS methodology. That validation process ensured that the system accurately recognizes the visual signature of various percentages of ground cover across a variety of ... more. |
Productive soil builds the foundation for any successful cropland. The higher soil quality, the better it performs. Whether producing organic matter, cycling nutrients, filtering water or other critical functions, soil quality is a key ingredient in the Core 4 Conservation recipe for enhancing soil and water resources, improving farm profitability and working toward a brighter future.
“Soil quality is the capacity of a specific soil to function,&rdq ... more. |
Conservation Agriculture Carbon Offset Consultation participants gather outside the Purdue University Beck Agricultural Center.
International Meeting Spotlights Conservation Agriculture's Role in Mitigating Climate Change
Supported by science and spurred by emerging markets, more than 80 participants in an international workshop on carbon sequestration called on world policymakers to focus research and create fair-priced carbon offset markets that would pay farmers to adopt conservation agriculture practices that will capture carbon in the soil.
Carbon offset markets would allow farmers to sell the service of capturing and storing & ... more. |
Mike Beard and his family have built a national reputation as top managers of feed, water and manure on their 15,000-head hog operation in Indiana.
Photo courtesy of Steve Werblow
Integrated Manure Management: Good Neighbors, Good Business
by Steve Werblow
There aren’t many 15,000-head hog ope ... more. |
... (August 8, 2023)—A new national cover crop survey report released today challenges assumptions on the role of incentive payments in cover crop adoption. Incentives play a key role in getting some farmers started on cover crops—49% of the cover crop users participating in the survey reported receiving some sort of payment for cover crops in 2022, and 77.8% of cover crop non-users said incentive payments would be helpful. However, 90.3% of the farmers who were receiving cover crop incentives reported that they would definitely or probably continue planting cover crops after the payments ended, while only 3.3% said they definitely or probably would drop cover crops at the end of the incentive program.
&nbs ... more. |
... water" (center), then filters out dissolved solids to yield clear water (right).
Graphic courtesy of Integrated Separation Systems
Wastewater Treatment Plants Dewater Dairy Manure
by Steve Werblow
Nearly half the weight of dairy manure is water. It's bulky, it's heavy and it's inconvenient to handle. Rising fuel costs make hauling that water component prohibitively expensive, and environmental protection measures push the cost of lagoons toward the half-million-dollar mark or higher.
And for dairy producers like John Vrieze of Baldwin, Wis., the problem grows with every rain. “Colleagues of mine in drier areas of the country can use the ... more. |
Established 1998
The purpose of the Conservation Tillage Workgroup is to 1) develop knowledge and exchange information on conservation tillage production systems, 2) coordinate related research and extension programs, 3) respond to needs for information on reduced tillage production alternatives, and 4) plan and conduct statewide and regional conferences, workshops and training demonstrations as well as produce UC Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) publications and internet ... more. |
Conservation Technology Information Center Announces Creation of Cover Crop Coaches Program and Hires Dan Coffman as Minnesota Soil Health Specialist
WEST LAFAYETTE, NOVEMBER 16, 2023- Thanks to a generous grant from General Mills, a global food company deeply committed to regenerative agriculture, the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) is excited to announce the creation of their farmer-led Cover Crop Coaches program.
This new program aims ... more. |
Rye cover crop seeded into corn residue.
Photo courtesy of USDA
Cover Crops Work with Various Crop Production Systems
By Jason Johnson
According to a panel of Iowa farmers, agronomists and soil conservationists, cover crops such as rye, wheat and clover are environmentally beneficial and with proper management won’t inhibit yields on various crop production systems, including no-till and organic farming.
At a recent Cover Crops Workshop in Jefferson, Iowa, dozens gathered to discuss and learn more about the many benefits and varieties of cover crops, and ways to success ... more. |
Crystal Hatfield
Operations Director
Crystal is responsible for the overall administration. Crystal also handles memberships, sponsorships, and tour registrations. Crystal assists the executive director with all other day to day operations. Crystal joined CTIC in the fall of 2014.
Sue Tull
Project Director
Sue joined CTIC in 2013. She works with multiple projects and partners and also assists CTIC staff with events, communications and administration. Sue spent most of her career in pla ... more. |
... Packets
Opportunity to Address Audience
At a Tour Stop
Diamon Sponsor
$10,000
Four Comlimentary Tour Registration
Special News Release
Customized Banner Display
Promotions
Recognition on all social media
Recognition on all tour outreach/news releases
Logo on website sponosr page
Notebook
Logo on front cover
Welcome letter and logo on inside page
Ad in notbook
Logo on sponsor page
Recognition on Signage
Dinner
Lunch
Breakfast
Buses
Recognition on T-shirt
Company logo
Company name
Printed Materials in Participant Packets
Opportunity to Address Audience
At a Meal
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Turning Manure Into Energy
Turkey litter is relatively dry and blended with bedding fiber, making it especially well suited for combustion.
Photo courtesy of Steve Werblow
Turning Manure into Energy
Steve Werblow
Barriers to the land application of manure – phosphorus-loaded soils, limited land base, high fuel and hauling costs – have raised burning questions ... more. |
... contact:
Dave Gustafson, (314) 409-7123; gustafson@ctic.org
Steve Werblow, (541) 488-8610; steve@stevewerblow.com
CTIC to Lead Development of the CSA Connector for a New USDA Climate Smart Partnership Program
WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana (September 22, 2022) — The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), in partnership with The Nature Conservancy and Houston Engineering, will lead development of a new online tool, the Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) Connector, as a key element of a new project selected last week for funding by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodities program.
The overall project is being led by the Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment, w ... more. |
WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana (September 22, 2022) — The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), in partnership with The Nature Conservancy and Houston Engineering, will lead development of a new online tool, the Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) Connector, as a key element of a new project selected last week for funding by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodities program.
The overall project is being led by the Wolfe’s Neck Center for Agriculture and the Environment, w ... more. |
2020 Conservation In Action Tour- In Person EventPostponed
Join us virtually!
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, CTIC's 2020 Conservation in Action Tour has been postponed to 2021. We will instead host a virtual event in collaboration with the American Society of Agronomy's Sustainable Agronomy Conference on August 20, 2020.
Session #5: Environmental Benefits of Sustainable Agronomy—Stewardship in Action
10:05 AM-10:20 AM (Recorded)
Topic: Making Conservation Stick: Perspective ... more. |
Conservation Buffers
Conservation buffers are small areas or strips of land in permanent vegetation, designed to slow water runoff, provide shelter and stabilize riparian areas. Strategically placed buffer strips in the agricultural landscape can effectively mitigate the movement of sediment, nutrients, and pesticides within farm fields and from farm fields.
Buffers include: contour buffer strips, field borders, filter strips, grassed waterways, living snow fences, ri ... more. |
The residue left on the field and the soil structure improved with a no-till cropping system may also give producers an advantage in this cold, wet harvest season.
Photo courtesy of CTIC
Lessening the Pain
For farmers choosing no-till, this fall’s wet harvest
has been a bit less painful
By Christy Couch Lee
What a year it’s be ... more. |
Information Collection and Use
The Conservation Technology Information Center (herein referred to as “CTIC”) is the sole owner of the information collected on this site. We will not sell, share, or rent this information to others in ways different from what is disclosed in this statement. CTIC collects information from our visitors at several different points on our web site.
Trademarks
CTIC and the CT ... more. |
... had "planted green," seeding cash crops into growing cover crops, 54% said the practice helped them plant earlier than on other fields.
Those findings were among several new insights from the 2019-2020 National Cover Crop Survey, conducted by the non-profit Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), with financial support from the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program and the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA). These organizations have worked together on several past national cover crop surveys, with the first survey dating back to the 2012 crop year.
The 2019-2020 survey, which included perspectives from 1,172 farmers representing every state, was the first by SARE, CTIC and ASTA to include detailed exploration of pla ... more. |
... (812) 661-2407
Kaitlin Crawford, ASTA kcrawford@betterseed.org (571) 431-7331
NATIONAL FARMER SURVEY DOCUMENTS A WIDE RANGE OF COVER CROP BENEFITS AS ACREAGE CONTINUES TO EXPAND
Despite the crippling rainfall that significantly delayed planting across much of the country in 2019, more than 90% of farmers participating in a national cover crop survey reported that cover crops allowed them to plant earlier or at the same time as non-cover-cropped fields. Among those who had "planted green," seeding cash crops into growing cover crops, 54% said the pr ... more. |
Moved by environmental stewardship and new government requirements, producers seek to limit nutrients in the environment through improved fertilizer efficiency.
Photo courtesy of Agrium
Smarter Fertilizer Use Yields Environmental Benefits
By Matthew W. Clover
All plants need nitrogen, an essential nutrient for growth. Through the years, growers have found ways ... more. |
Privacy Policy & Terms of Use
Information Collection and Use
The Conservation Technology Information Center (herein referred to as “CTIC”) is the sole owner of the information collected on this site. We will not sell, share, or rent this information to others in ways different from what is disclosed in this statement. CTIC collects information from our visitors at several different points on our web site.
Trademarks
CTIC and ... more. |
Aquatic Resource Monitoring Technical Training Workshops for States, Tribes and Other Stakeholders
An agreement between EPA and CTIC to provideleadership and technical support to successfully plan, organize, coordinate, evaluate and share information from State and Tribal Aquatic Resource Monitoring Technical Training Workshops that will occur between 2016 to 2020.
Nationals:
National 2016:
Tampa, FL- May 2-6, 2016
The NARS National Workshop wa ... more. |
Steve Robinson, President, National Association of Conservation Districts
Photo courtesy of NACD.
National Association of Conservation Districts
By Steve Robinson, President
Dear fellow conservationists,
Greetings on behalf of the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) and our member conservation districts! NACD is the nonprofit organization that represents America’s 3,000 conservation districts and the 17,000 men and women who serve on their governing boards. Conservation districts are local units of government established under state law to carry out natural resource management programs at the local level. Districts work with millions of landowners and oper ... more. |
... Scott Crumpecker spoke to field day participants, including area high school students. He highlighted nitrogen management, issues related to the Gulf of Mexico hypoxic zone, and how agricultural producers can fine tune their nitrogen application practices to save money and benefit water quality. Mike Milam, University of Missouri Extension Service, spoke with high school students about how watersheds work and how we all have an impact on water quality downstream.
For more information on efficient use of nitrogen, or future educational opportunities, contact David Dunn, University of Missouri Delta Center, at 573-379-5431 or dunnd@missouri.edu.
Profitability Through Nitrogen Efficiency was provided through efforts of the Bootheel Nutrient Management Committee funded in part by Ass ... more. |
By David Gustafson, departing interim executive director, CTIC
With the welcome arrival of CTIC’s new Executive Director Mike Komp, I bid a fond farewell to this interim role. There are many to thank for this wonderful opportunity, and I begin with Chair Terry Tindall, a true gentleman and also a genuine champion for conservation agriculture. I also offer sincere thanks to Vice Chair Mark Schmidt, Treasurer Mark White, and the entire CTIC Board of Directors. The CTIC staff have also been a true joy to get to know, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside these dedicated professionals – now in the role of OpTIS P ... more. |
From the cover crops of the Hmong American Farmers Association farm near Hastings to Northfield farmer Dave Legvold’s saturated buffers and the impeccable dairy and manure handling system at Burfeind Dairy Farm near Goodhue, participants in the Conservation Technology Information Center’s (CTIC) eighth annual Conservation in Action Tour got a first-hand look at systems that protect water quality, build soil health and improve farm profitability.
What people enjoyed most about the tour:
The opportunity to see conser ... more. |
The "Conservation At The Leading Edge" tour will visit farms, New Century FS, and demonstration sites August 20-21
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) launched online registrations today for its 12th annual Conservation in Action Tour, which will explore conservation systems in central Iowa.
The program will begin the afternoon of August 20, 2019 in Des Moines, Iowa, with a keynote speaker and cocktail reception. August 21 will be sp ... more. |
CTIC Welcomes New Members
By Rachel Doctor
CORPORATE
Terra Industries Inc.
CTIC is excited to introduce Terra Industries Inc., as a new Premier Corporate Member.
Headquartered in Sioux City, Iowa, Terra serves agriculture by providing farmers with nitrogen products that replenish the soil and are essential to plant growth. In fact, the company is the leading international producer of nitrogen products for agricultural, industrial and environmental markets. Terra owns and operates nitrogen manufacturing facilities in six North American locations and own 50 percent interest in joint ventures in the United Kingdom and The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
Terra takes pride i ... more. |
What's a Crop Nutrient Management plan?
A Crop Nutrient Management plan is a tool to increase the efficiency of all the nutrient sources your crop uses while reducing production and environmental risk, ultimately, increasing profit.
10 KEY COMPONENTS
Ag experts agree that there are ten fundamental components of a Crop Nutrient Management Plan. Each component is critical to helping you analyze each field and improve nutrient efficiency for the crops you grow.
1. Field map. The map, including general reference points (such as streams, residen ... more. |
Schroeder planted corn into soybean residue without disturbing the soil. No-till helps reduce erosion, saves time and money, and improves water and soil quality.
Photo courtesy of Jason Johnson
More Acres Can Also Mean More Conservation
By Jason Johnson
As the number of Iowa farmers decreases and the average farm size increases, that can mean more conservation on the ground – especially when it’s farmed by environme ... more. |
Trusted advisors can help guide cover crop policy, research and training by taking the survey and earn a chance to receive one of three $100 gift cards.
WEST LAFAYETTE, IND., October 1, 2024—A new cover crop survey by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC),USDA Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, andAmerican Seed Trade Association (ASTA) is gathering insights on cover crops from crop consu ... more. |
CTIC Hires Catie Geib as New Soil Health Specialist in Wisconsin and Announces Cover Crop Webinar Series
WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana, September 6, 2023 –Soil health specialist Catie Geib has joined the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), a 41-year-old conservation agriculture non-profit, to provide technical support to Wisconsin farmers under the Farmers for Soil Health (FSH) program.
The Farmers for Soil Health program provides payments f ... more. |
Research & Technology Briefs
Unprecedented Cropland Study Confirms Conservation Practices Work On Farms in Upper Mississippi River Basin
Conservation practices installed and applied by agricultural producers on cropland are reducing sediment, nutrient and pesticide losses from farm fields, according to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. More...
Cool Farm Tool
A public release version of the Cool Farm Tool Greenhouse Gas Cal ... more. |
WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana (April 24, 2019)—The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) welcomes its new Executive Director, Mike Komp. The role will call upon Komp's skills to build collaborative networks that help promote and champion conservation farming systems, secure funding for new programs, and—increasingly—help analyze and disseminate digital data on conservation practices.
As interest in sustainable farming practices grows among farmers, consumers, and policymakers, CTIC's role is expanding, noted Terry Tindall of J.R. Simplot, Chair of CTIC's Board of Directors. So is the role ... more. |
By adopting conservation practices like cover crops and reduced tillage or no-till, farmers can help reduce the effects of climate change, including soil erosion, declining land productivity and desertification, according to Climate Change and Land, a report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released today. More than 100 experts from 52 countries contributed to the report.
Mike Komp, executive director of the Conserv ... more. |
Owls, sugarcane, lettuce, muck soils and more are all part of the "Unique Story of the Everglades Agricultural Area," a tale of farmers working with the ecosystem. Over 150 participants from 20 states heard this unique story. The audience represented numerous roles in the agriculture industry, such as growers, agricultural retailers, members of the media, agricultural and conservation organization representatives, federal and ... more. |
The History of NARS
The National Aquatic Resource Surveys (NARS) program is an EPA and State/Tribal effort to survey the condition of the nation’s waters.
Initiated in 2005, these statistically-based surveys have begun to provide EPA, States, Tribes and others partners with information to provide nationally consistent reports on the condition of the nation’s waters, to identify national and regional water quality priorities and to evaluate the effectiveness of the na ... more. |
For more information, contact:
Callie North, north@ctic.org/ (317) 450-9137
Ryan Heiniger, heiniger@ctic.org/ (319) 768-8348
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) Inducts Frank Lessiter Into Its Hall of Fame
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) inducted editor, publisher and conservation agriculture advocate Frank Lessiter into its CTIC Hall of Fame during the 16th Annual CTIC Conservation in Action Tour on Tuesday night, July 11, 2023 in Frankenmuth, Michigan.
CTIC is a hub for information and ideas that advance and promote conservation agriculture systems that help people along the agricultural supply chain achieve their economic and environmental sustainability ... more. |
Register Online
Online registration is open for CTIC's 12th annual Conservation In Action Tour, which will include a packed program of farm visits, facility tours, informative presentations and an up-close look at real-world conservation practices in central Iowa on August 20-21. The Conservation at the Leading Edge tour will begin the afternoon of Tuesday, August 20, with a keynote speaker and social reception at the beautiful World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in downtown Des Moines.
Watch the CIA Tour Invitation video
Wednesday, August 21, will be a full d ... more. |
Marsh-type area with saturated soils and water-loving plants.
Wetlands provide wildlife habitat and serve as natural filters for agricultural runoff.
How it works
... more. |
Questions and Answers
What is Core 4 Conservation?
It's a common-sense approach to improving farm profitability while addressing environmental concerns. It’s adaptable to virtually any farming situation and can be tailored to meet a farmer’s specific needs.
Better soil
Sustainable soils that increase long-term productivity result from increased organic matter, improved soil mois ... more. |
Diverse Corn Belt
The Diverse Corn Belt (DCB) is a multidisciplinary project exploring alternative crops, longer rotations, and integrating livestockand perennials that could help increase resilience in Midwest agriculture - is seeking farmer input through focus groups and in-field research. The project's 30 partners are exploring diversification at the farm, market, and landscape level that can broaden new opportunities for Midwest farmers and rural communities, says Dr. Linda S. Prokopy of Purdue University, w ... more. |
... contact...
Callie North |north@ctic.org| (317) 450-9137
Steve Werblow |steve@stevewerblow.com|(541) 488-8610
WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana (November 8, 2022)—The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) welcomes Ryan Heiniger as its new executive director. Heiniger is a fourth-generation Iowa farmer, wildlife biologist, and has been a non-profit leader for more than two decades. CTIC board chair Mark White of Syngenta says Heiniger's combination of on-the-ground conservation experience and history of leadership in conservation-oriented organizations made him the perfect choice for the role, which began November 1.
"Ryan has put his farm b ... more. |
Hello all,
A few weeks ago, Mark Schmidt, past chair with CTIC and a close friend, mentioned that CTIC has always been a consistent and steady voice through the years for conservation promotion and information. We went on to discuss how the packaging for conservation may change—with new phrases, buzzwords, and entities coming to the forefront—but the essence and importance only continue to grow.
As CTIC celebrates its 40thanniversary ... more. |
The Diverse Corn Belt project—a multidisciplinary project exploring alternative crops, longer rotations, integrating livestock and perennials that could help increase resilience in Midwest agriculture—is seeking farmer input through focus groups and in-field research. The project's 30 partners are exploring diversification at the farm, market and landscape level that can broaden new opportunities for Midwest farmers and rural communities, says Dr. Linda S. Prokopy of Purdue University, who leads the five-year, $10 ... more. |
MY CONSERVATION STORY...
BAMERT SEED
BOOSTING BIODIVERSITY AND WATER AVAILABILITY ON RANGELAND
Most conversations about the Ogallala Aquifer in the southern High Plains revolve around water scarcity. But ask Chris Grotegut about his 11,000-acre farming and ranching operation outside of Hereford, Texas, and you'll find out he pulled out 75% of his pivots and shifted to a largely dryland system.
Grotegut's secret wea ... more. |
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
“Professional ag consultants will learn what they need to provide one more service to the farmers they advise. Recognizing where a conservation practice would be a good fit, and charting a course for putting it into use, is a real value to their clients. Not every CCA or retail agronomist is interested in writing elaborate conservation plans, but these are the people farmers turn to first for advice. They’re the right group to show farmers how they can benefit from conservation,”
Mike Smith, CTIC project director.
P ... more. |
Practical Conservation Planning in the Field
August 22-23, 2017
Stuttgart Public Library
Stuttgard, Arkansas
Ph: 870-673-1966
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
Professional ag consultants will learn what they need to provide one more service to the farmers they advise. Recognizing where a conservation practice would be a good fit, and charting a course for putting it into use, is a real value to their clients. Not every CCA or retail agronomist is interested in writing elaborate conservation plans, but these are the people farmers turn to first for advice. They’re the right group to show farmers how they can benefit from conservation.
Mike Smith, CTIC project director.
Workshop Agenda
Tuesday August ... more. |
A group of agriculture and conservation stakeholders in the Pacific Northwest is working to devise strategies that will ease the transition of land protected under the Conservation Reserve Program to no-till production system.
Photo courtesy of CTIC
Conservation Reserve Program – Exit Strategies
By Russ Evans
In the rain-fed region of the inland ... more. |
Apply gypsum to your fields to balance soil structure, Improve nutrient uptake, and yield heartier, healthier crops
There are thousands of agricultural products that claim to increase yields—from the latest hybrids to implements and electronic gadgetry. As a grower, you do everything it takes to maximize output with the least amount of input costs. But as input prices continue to increase, and margins become increasingly thinner, many gr ... more. |
... shoreline of Lake Erie accumulating algae.
Photo courtesy of EPA
Experts Dispute Study That Relates No-Till to Algae Problem
Rachel Doctor
Last spring, a study conducted by Hiedelberg College's water lab in Tiffin, Ohio, reported that no-till farming was contributing to the dissolved phosphorus that enters the water supply and causes an accumulation of algae in Lake Erie.
According to Norm Widman, national agronomist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), no-till systems are not the reason for this dissolved phosphorus, but several things have caused a “perfect storm” for this phosphorus runoff.
”Most phosphorus runoff is caused by the timing and methods of application of ... more. |
Whatcom County Dairy Farmers Tackle Water Quality Challenges
Using an innovative online tool to schedule late winter and early spring manure applications, Terry and Troy Lenssen of Lenssen Dairy in Lynden, Washington, can give soil microbes a chance to convert slurry nutrients into plant-available forms before spring growth starts in earnest, while also protecting local waterways from runoff of nutrients and bacteria. The Application Risk Management (ARM) tool developed by the Whatcom Conservation District uses a c ... more. |
Crop Residue Management (CRM)
A year-round system beginning with the selection of crops that produce sufficient quantities of residue and may include the use of cover crops after low residue producing crops. CRM includes all field operations that affect residue amounts, orientation and distribution throughout the period requiring protection. Site-specific residue cover amounts needed are usually expressed in percentage but may also be in pounds. CRM is an “umbrella” term encompassing several tillage systems including no ... more. |
CTIC has relocated to a new home on Facebook. The new address is sleeker and more manageable in order to give us the ability to better utilize Facebook and Twitter for conservation news, tour schedules, and special announcements.
With the reach and scope of social networking sites, CTIC has the opportunity to reach more people and provide additional information, support, and help for our current members and friends. In the past few years, social networking ... more. |
Research & Technology Briefs
U.S. Commerce Department establishes NOAA Climate Service
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has launched the NOAA Climate Service at www.climate.gov.
Individuals and decision-makers across widely diverse sectors – from agriculture to energy to transportation – increasingly rely on NOAA for information about climate change. To meet these requests, the NOAA Climate Service office has been established to bring together the agency’s ... more. |
... Callie North, CTIC (north@ctic.org); (317) 450-9137 or
Steve Werblow, (steve@stevewerblow.com); (541) 951-4212 or
Rob Myers, University of Missouri (myersrob@missouri.edu); 573-882-1547 or
Bethany Shively, ASTA (bshively@betterseed.org); (703) 837-8140 x332
CALLING ALL FARMERS: SHARE YOUR VIEWS ON COVER CROPS IN NATIONAL SURVEY BY SARE, CTIC AND ASTA
A national survey launched today to gather insight from farmers who plant cover crops, as well as farmers who don't. Farmers are encouraged to access the National Cover Crop Survey online atbit.ly/CoverCrop23. The anonymous survey typically takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Your insight will help guide research, communications, seed development, and more. ... more. |
Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) Opens Registration for Tour and 40th Anniversary Celebration in St. Louis Sept. 12-13
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) will be celebrating its 40th anniversary and hosting its 15th annual Conservation in Action Tour in St. Louis, Missouri, September 12 & 13, 2022.
"Drawing on talent from across the U.S. and around the world, St. Louis is a vibrant hub for agriculture and technolog ... more. |
JUST ONE WEEK LEFT TO REGISTER FOR CTIC CONSERVATION IN ACTION TOUR!
Time is running out and seats are filling up quickly for the Conservation in Action Tour hosted by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), which will be held in central Iowa August 20 and 21. Registration for the event closes in just one week, at midnight on July 26.
The tour includes farm visits, a tour of a cutting-edge ag retail operation, a close-up look at the Iowa Land Improvement Contr ... more. |
DIG DEEP INTO CONSERVATION PRACTICES ON CTIC'S CONSERVATION IN ACTION TOUR, AUG 20-21
The Conservation in Action Tour on August 20 and 21, organized by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), will give participants a chance to dig deep into a wide range of conservation farming practices, including constructed systems such as wood chip bioreactors, saturated buffers, sediment control basins and others.
The tour begins and ends in Des Moines. I ... more. |
Conservation Agriculture Carbon Offset Consultation, Oct. 28-30, 2008, West Lafayette, IN. The Conservation Agriculture Carbon Offset Consultation, sponsored by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and CTIC, was a rousing success. Three days of science, economics, brainstorming and collaboration among representatives from around the world yielded some very significant conclusions:
There is good science to describe and quantify the role that farmers around the world can play using conservation agriculture to sequester carbon in the soil. ... more. |
Weed & Pest Management (IPM) Facts
What is it?
It's a comprehensive approach to fine tuning on-farm management of harmful weeds and pests. Today we have improved methods for control of weeds, insects and diseases. Management strategies that allow for better control, with minimum risk to the environment. Resistant plants, cultural controls, soil amendments, beneficial insects, natural enemies, barriers, physical treatments, behavioral disruptants, biological and conventional pesticides are some of these management strategies.
... more. |
A strip of grass or legumes at the edge of a field used in place of end rows.
How it works
Strips of perennial vegetation are established at the outside edges of a field where excessive sheet and rill erosion is occurring. The grass or legume strips replace crop end rows, which would be planted up and down hill and be highly erosive. Field borders are sometimes referred to as picture frames of grass, and are used with contour farming, terrace, buffer strip and contour stripcropping systems. The grass or legume in the strip protects steep field edges from soil erosion, and provides turning ... more. |
Weed & Pest Management (IPM) Benefits
Increases Profits
Inputs such as mechanical cultivation, pesticides, fertilizers and tillage costs money. By using best management practices to apply these inputs when they are actually needed, growers can reduce costs. Weed and pest management can help schedule required controls at the right time to maximize the benefits of the practice. Weed and pest management can improve the bottom line for growers.
Reduces Risks
Weed and pest management results in fewer pesticide app ... more. |
... (CTIC) SEEKS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana (June 30, 2022)—The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC)islaunchinga search for a new executive director as Mike Komp, who led the organization for the past three years,moves on toa new opportunity.
"CTIC has strengthened its capabilities under Mike's leadership, and we wish him great success in his new endeavors as wetake on the next stage ofthe organization's growth," says Mark White of Syngenta, CTIC's board chair.
CTIC celebrates its 40th anniversary this year marking an exciting time to enlist a newleader, notes the organization’s past chair, Mark Schmidt. Schmidt currently serves asassociate v ... more. |
... (CTIC) SEEKS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
WEST LAFAYETTE, Indiana (June 30, 2022)—The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC)islaunchinga search for a new executive director as Mike Komp, who led the organization for the past three years,moves on toa new opportunity.
"CTIC has strengthened its capabilities under Mike's leadership, and we wish him great success in his new endeavors as wetake on the next stage ofthe organization's growth," says Mark White of Syngenta, CTIC's board chair.
CTIC is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, making 2022 an exciting time to enlist a new leader, notes the organization's past chair,Mark Schmidt, associate vice chancellor at North Carolina ... more. |
CONSERVATION IN ACTION TOUR BACK ON THE BUS!
In 2020 and 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic pushed our plans back for an in-person Conservation in Action Tour. But we rallied with virtual tours that blended pre-recorded and live content in conjunction with the American Society of Agronomy's Sustainable Agriculture Conference.
Check out our digital library for interviews, panel discussions and videos that bring you across the country, from mul ... more. |
... tillage and cover crops.
CTIC's website features easy-to-use visualization tools for both OpTIS and DNDC data. The tools can be used by a wide range of interested people, including:
Scientists
Policy makers
Administrators of carbon markets
Agribusiness
Conservationists
Farm advisors
"With 14 years' worth of data reported at the watershed HUC-8 or crop reporting district scale, OpTIS provides insight into snapshots or trends of soil health practices across the Corn Belt," notes Dave Gustafson, OpTIS project director for CTIC. "Running these data through DNDC adds a very exciting tool for understanding the effects of those practices on key metrics such as soil carbon, and using the visualization tools on our website reall ... more. |
2016 Conservation in Action Tour
This tour showcased the diversity of crops in Idaho's Treasure Valley —- more than 180 crops ranging from potatoes to dairy products to trout.. Farmers, crop consultants, agribusiness professionals, state and federal agency representatives, and conservation group leaders visited four farms to see conservation agriculture and innovative conservation systems up-close.
What We Learned:
Stop #1 - Dixon Farm, Greenleaf, Idaho
Water quality and availability as it impacts high-efficiency irrigation
Irrigation/water delivery system
Semi-permanent drip irrigation
Ma ... more. |
Keep nutrients in the Right Place, where crops can use them.
The farmer uses real-time kinematic precision guidance to apply N fertilizer in fall or early spring in a closely-controlled location relative to where the seed will be sown.
Strip-till conservation systems use minimal tillage. They combine soil drying and warming benefits of conventional tillage and soil-protecting advantages of no-till by disturbing only the portion of soil that will contain the seed row.
Here we are using fall applied N with an RTK strip-till system and comparing it to a conventional chisel plow system.
A special feature at this site is the demonstration of N use efficiency (NUE) rate comparison, done with field-scale equi ... more. |
CTIC, with funding provided by the United Soybean Board, updated its 2003 publication on conservation tillage and biotechnology. CTIC's new publication, "Facilitating Conservation Farming Practices and Enhancing Environmental Sustainability with Agricultural Biotechnology", explores the environmental benefits of conservation tillage practices, which are facilitated significantly by biotechnology crops. The publication, reviewed by a panel of experts, shows the dramatic improvements in environme ... more. |
Keep nutrients in the Right Place, where crops can use them.
The farmer uses real-time kinematic precision guidance to apply N fertilizer in fall or early spring in a closely-controlled location relative to where the
seed will be sown.
Strip-till conservation systems use minimal tillage. They combine soil drying and warming benefits of conventional tillage and soil-protecting advantages of no-till by disturbing only the portion of soil that will contain the seed row.
Here we are using fall applied N with an RTK strip-till system and comparing it to a conventional chisel plow system.
A special feature at this site is the demonstration of N use efficiency (NUE) rate com ... more. |
Instructions
Click on image to view full size version. To download image when viewing full-size, click your right mouse button on the graphic and choose the "save image" option. All images are 300 dpi resolution minimum. Please feel free to use these photos and graphics for publication. Mention of source is appreciated.
Close look at old corn stalks left standing from past harvest. The standing stalks helped catch additional snow over the winter to provide more moisture for the newly emerging (green) soybean plants. The sta ... more. |
... focuses on four main cellulosic feedstocks, including: corn stover, miscanthus, switchgrass and wood.
The full report is available at http://www.mnproject.org/pdf/TMP_Transportation-Biofuels-Update_Aug09.pdf
USDA Announces $320 Million to Improve Mississippi River Basin Water Quality and Wildlife Habitat
In September, USDA announced the Mississippi River Basin Healthy Watersheds Initiative (MRBI), which will provide $80 million in each of the next four fiscal years (for a total of $320 million) for voluntary projects in priority watersheds located in 12 key states. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the MRBI will help producers adopt conservation systems that have environmental benefits and maintain agricultural productivity. The states involved in t ... more. |
Conservation Starts Here
CTIC Conservation Connector Helps Producers Discover Local Programs and Technical Assistance All In One Place
We're working to bring clarity and accessibility to conservation programs by creating a one-stop shop for farmers, ranchers and advisers. The CTIC Conservation Connector, now in development, is bringing conservation programs and local technical assistance to producers on a single platform.
Conservation Starts Here
Th ... more. |
Welcome to CTIC's Farmers for Soil Health Program
At the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), we are proud partners in the Farmers for Soil Health program, a collaborative effort initiated by the National Corn Growers Association, United Soybean Board, and the National Pork Board. Our mission is to drive positive change in agriculture, one field at a time.
About Farmers for Soil Health
Farmers for Soil Health (FSH) is a farmer-driven sustainability program designed to enhance soil health and promote the adoption of cover crops. With a bold vision of expanding cover crops to 30 million acres by 2030, FSH is at the forefront of sustainable agri ... more. |
2022-2023Cover Crop Survey
Click here to open the report on insights from 795 farmers representing 49 states, including commodity crop, horticulture and livestock producers. The 2022-2023 survey introduced new questions on integrating livestock into cover crop systems, as well as growing cover crops for seed and participating in soil carbon programs.
Findings in the seventh National Cover Crop Survey from CTIC, USDA-NIFA's Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program and the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) ... more. |
CTIC WRAPS UP ISDA BLUE CREEK PROJECT WITH INTERACTIVE TRAINING
Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) staff learned how to enroll farmers into Field to Market's FieldPrint Calculator and help growers in the Blue Creek Watershed Project put the tool to use in measuring the environmental impacts of commodity crop production and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
CTIC staff—including Sue Tull, Hans Kok and Callie Cleveland—organized and hosted a virtual, two-hour training session on September 29 on the grower sustainability tools used in the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) Blue ... more. |
Click on any of the links below for full video coverage of each of the presentations from the program.
Summary
A brief summary of CTIC's Ag Consultants Training at the 2019 Iowa Agribusiness Showcase and Conference in Des Moines, Iowa, featuring Mike Naig (IDALS), Jason Gomes (North Iowa Agronomy Partners), Greg Wandrey (The Nature Conservancy/4Rs Plus), Robert Mier (USDA-NRCS), Keegan Kult (Ag Drainage Management Coalition) and Tim Recker (Iowa Land Improvement Contractors Association).
Welcome: Mike Naig, IDALS
Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, greets crop consultant ... more. |
Planting forage and using grazing rotations to maximize production and
reduce sediment and nutrient runoff. Consider food, water and herd size.
How it works
Pasture is divided into two or more ... more. |
Improving the quality and quantity of woodland growing stock and maintaining ground cover and litter for soil and water conservation.
How it works
Existing woodland or other suitable land is dedicated to timber production. Livestock is excluded. Optimum tree populations are determined by the kinds of trees planted and their adaptability to your soils. Existing trees or newly planted trees are thinned, pruned and h ... more. |
Rows of trees and shrubs that protect areas from wind and provide food and cover for wildlife.
How it works
Multiple rows of coniferous trees or a combination of coniferous and deciduous trees are planted to protect a farmstead or feedlot from wind and snow. One or two rows of shrubs are also often planted. The established windbreak slows wind on the downwind side ... more. |
Installing practices such as dikes in existing wetlands to manage water levels and improve habitat.
How it works
Most wetland enhancement work includes small structures built to add water or regulate water levels in an existing wetland. Subsurface and surface drains and tiles are plugged. Concrete and earthen structure ... more. |
Evaluating and using a tailored pest management system to reduce crop and environmental damages. Scouting is done to identify insects, weeds and diseases.
How it works
Crops are scouted to determine type of pests—insects, weeds and ... more. |
A pool of water formed by a dam or pit, to supply water for livestock, recreation
and wildlife, and to control gully erosion.
How it works
A typical farm pond is formed by building a dam across an existing gully or low lying area. Earth for the dam is dug out above the dam with heavy machinery to form a bowl. Generally the ponded area fills with water within a year. An overflow pipe is installed through the dam to control the water level and allow water to spill through th ... more. |
DNDC: The Denitrification-Decomposition (DNDC) model was used to simulate carbon and nitrogen soil dynamics as a function of the soil health management practices monitored by OpTIS (crop diversity, conservation tillage, and cover crops).
DNDC performs process-based simulations of nitrogen and carbon dynamics in agroecosystems. Based on environmental drivers (inputs like soil characteristics, temperature and precipitation data, crop characteristics, and crop managemen ... more. |
... and a proprietary algorithm developed by Applied GeoSolutions (AGS) to analyze tillage practices and ground cover. The algorithm was ground-truthed by visits to nearly 1,500 fields in 10 states in 2017 and 2018.
Data covering 645 counties in the Corn Belt between 2006 and 2018 are available free on the CTIC website. To protect farmer privacy, results are reported on the HUC 8 watershed or Crop Reporting District level.
The portal on CTIC's website also offers analysis of OpTIS data through the Denitrification-Decomposition (DNDC) model, which quantifies the effects of the observed conservation practices on changes in soil organic carbon and emissions of nitrous oxide, a powerful greenhouse gas.
Read more about OpTIS here or visit the data portal on ... more. |
Crop Nutrient Management Facts
What is it?
It is a system of crop production with little, if any, tillage. It increases the residue from the crop that
remains in the field after harvest through planting. This results in increased natural recycling of crop residues.
Used on 38% (109 million acres) of all U.S. cropland (293 million planted acres).
Goal is 50% (146 million acres) of the planted cropland in the U.S. by 2004.
Where is the use of conservation tillage expected to increase?
Conservation tillage soybean acres are expected to increase rapidly.
Wheat and cotton acres will also increase significantly the next five years.
Corn acres are expected to remain steady ... more. |
Conservation Tillage Facts
What is it?
It is a system of crop production with little, if any, tillage. It increases the residue from the crop that remains
in the field after harvest through planting. This results in increased natural recycling of crop residues.
Used on 38% (109 million acres) of all U.S. cropland (293 million planted acres).
Goal is 50% (146 million acres) of the planted cropland in the U.S. by 2004.
Where is the use of conservation tillage expected to increase?
Conservation tillage soybean acres are expected to increase rapidly.
Wheat and cotton acres will also increase significantly the next five years.
Corn acres are expected to remain steady ... more. |
Creating, maintaining or improving food and cover for upland wildlife.
How it works
Planting trees, shrubs, grass and other vegetation that provide cover and food will attract wildlife to an area. The type of habitat provided will determine the kind and numbers of wildlife attracted.
H ... more. |
SHARE YOUR INSIGHT IN SARE/CTIC/ASTA COVER CROP SURVEY
Farmer insights are now being sought for the sixth nationwide cover crop survey by USDA's SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education) program, the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) and the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA).
The online questionnaire is now open at https://bit.ly/CCSurvey2020.
The survey takes about 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Participants who complete the survey can enter a drawing for Visa gift cards worth up to $200.
"Since 2012, the SARE/CTIC/ASTA Cover Crop Sur ... more. |
Our demonstrations illustrate the 4 Rs of nutrient management:
Right Source
Right Rate
Right Place
Right Time
We demonstrate management systems---not individual practices.
We measure practice success through agronomic yield, economic sustainability, nutrient use efficiency and water quality impacts.
Agrium's ESN v. Urea
Agrium designed ESN®, a polymer coated urea, to slow the release of nitrogen into the environment. This is allows the plant to access nitrogen when it needs it the most... Read more.
Application Timing
We designed this study to demonstrate the differences in nitrogen rates and yields with different ure ... more. |
Applying the correct amount, form, and timing of plant nutrients for optimum yield and minimum impact on water quality.
How it works
After taking a soil test, setting realistic yield goals, and taking credit for contributions from previous years' crops and manure applications, crop nutrient needs are determined. Nutrients are then applied at the proper time by the proper application method. Nutrient sources include animal ... more. |
... in Action Tour
Join us on an unforgettable tour of South Dakota!
May 6-7, 2025
Sioux Falls
Start your 2025 growing season off right by exploring conservation agriculture in the Great Plains! The 18th Annual Conservation in Action Tour is showcasing South Dakota. It’s a unique planting season tour that will focus on soil health, biodiversity, crop production, and innovation.
Register Today!
Interested in sponsoring? Download the prospectusor contact Ryan Heiniger at heiniger@ctic.org
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This page is your gateway to the inner workings of the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC). Our Board of Directors Meetings are where we discuss important strategies and decisions that influence our efforts in promoting sustainability and conservation in agriculture.
On this page, you'll find information about our past and upcoming meetings, including meeting agendas and minutes. We believe in transparency and open communication, and this page reflects our commitment to sharing the discussions and decisions that drive CTIC's mission.
Joi ... more. |
Introduction
CTIC has partnered since 2010with Regrow and The Nature Conservancy on the development, testing and application of the Operational Tillage Information System (OpTIS), an automated system to map tillage, residue cover, winter cover, and soil health practices using remote sensing data. The latest version of the OpTIS data are available below for Croplands. With this latest update (April 2024), the partners are now also releasing analogous dat ... more. |
... Conservation in Action Tour is now open!
Experiencing Conservation in Supply Chains
Join us in Frankenmuth, Michigan, July 10-11, for the 16th annual Conservation in Action Tour! This year’s tour theme, Experiencing Conservation in Supply Chains, will help connect the circle from farmer to consumer. Attendees can look forward to seeing the supply chain up close and personal, including cutting edge dairy practices, specialty crops like sugar beets and dry beans, milling and processing, and more!
Check out an outline of the agenda HERE to see where we'll be visiting!
Online registration for the tour is quick and easy athttps://www.ctic.org/tourregistration. The registration fee includes all tour activities, bus transportat ... more. |
... soon!
Don't miss your chance to get the early registration rate for the16th annual Conservation in Action Tour in Frankenmuth, Michigan, July 10-11, 2023!
This year’s tour theme, Experiencing Conservation in Supply Chains, will help connect the circle from farmer to consumer. At this year’s event, farmers, input suppliers, conservation advocates and processors will dig deep and share their perspectives on sustainable, climate-smart food production. Attendees can look forward to seeing the supply chain up close and personal, including cutting edge dairy practices, specialty crops like sugar beets and dry beans, milling and processing, and more!
NEW this year: a special mixer for the next generation of conservation agriculture cha ... more. |
Ryan Heiniger Joins CTIC As New Executive Director
CTIC welcomes Ryan Heiniger as its new Executive Director. Heiniger is a fourth-generation Iowa farmer, wildlife biologist, and non-profit leader. CTIC board president Mark White of Syngenta says Heiniger's combination of on-the-ground conservation experience and history of leadership in conservation-oriented organizations made him the perfect choice for the role.
"Ryan has put his farm background and deep love for nature to work in a career in conservation," White notes. "He is a skilled organizer, ... more. |
Working closely with US EPA, CTIC is taking the agency's three-day National Recreational Water Quality Workshop virtual this year. Click here for the agenda.
The workshop provides a nationwide forum for recreational water quality managers, stakeholders, researchers and public health officials at all levels to share information and ideas about implementing successful recreational water quality programs. The program will focus on fecal contamination and harmful algal blooms (HABs).
Pre-recorded presentations will be available for viewing beginning March 15, 2021 on the CTIC website, and viewers can submit questions through a comment box afte ... more. |
Hello everyone,
The takeaway from 2020 for me has been that we are stronger together than apart. Agriculture, by its necessity, impacts everyone, every day. That means we need everyone around the table to set a course to a future where everyone benefits from conservation. CTIC has been and will continue to be a community where all are welcome, but 2020 demonstrated that it takes work to ensure that everyone is invited.
I’m proud of how our team has persevered through 2020. They have engaged with new technologies, trained in critical areas, and maintained and developed new relationships through it all. Currently, we are working with many of our members to la ... more. |
... the Great Lakes— Michigan and Superior. On Lake Michigan, I’ve been spending time chasing salmon and trout and on Superior I was doing some camping, hiking, and scouting for the upcoming fall runs. The freshwater resources that stretch across the USA are truly remarkable.
Over the past months, CTIC has been working with partners to develop a phosphorus trading program within two watersheds on another Great Lake, Lake Erie. As we’ve started to work with farmers and ranchers in the Maumee and Sandusky Watersheds, it’s clear that these programs are viewed with a mix of optimism and skepticism. Optimism centers around the prospect of free markets to support conservation adoption. However, concern over unfulfilled promises of past markets, like the Chicago Climate Exchange, ... more. |
Bayer CropScience, The Mosaic Company, Syngenta and the Conservation Infrastructure Initiative co-led by the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance (IAWA) and Iowa’s Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) have signed on as a Diamond-level sponsors of the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) Conservation in Action Tour. The tour, which will be held August 20 and 21 in Des Moines, Iowa, is CTIC's 12th annual program o ... more. |
... Conservation in Action Tour—which will showcase conservation agriculture systems in central Iowa—to Friday, August 2. The special tour room block rate at the Embassy Suites Downtown in Des Moines has also been extended until 4:00 pm CST on Monday, July 29.
"We are still seeing strong interest in the tour and can open another bus to accommodate interested farmers, crop consultants, conservation professionals, policy makers, agribusiness people, researchers and others who want to see conservation systems in real-world situations," says Mike Komp, executive director of CTIC.
"The opening talk by Iowa Secretary of Agricult ... more. |
The Conservation In Action Tour 2009 was a success! More than 80 people from 15 states joined CTIC in Western Illinois for a one-day tour visiting three farms and three agricultural facilities. We visited with successful farmers who have mastered innovative conservation practices in their profitable operations and we learned about new tools and technologies that make conservation agriculture not only good for the environment but good for the farm’s bottom line.
Watch this short video for highlights from the Tour ... more. |
Find the following CTIC resources in the Free Download section of CTIC’s Online Store.
Better Soil, Better Yields is a guidebook to improving soil organic matter and infiltration with continuous no-till.
Facilitating Conservation Farming Practices and Enhancing Environmental Sustainability with Agricultural Biotechnology explores environmental benefits of conservation tillage, facilitated significantly by biotechnology crops.
A Review of BMPs for Managing Crop Nutrients and Conservation Tillage to Improve Water Quality reviews research on nutr ... more. |
Conservation tillage systems offer numerous benefits that intensive or conventional tillage simply can’t match:
1. Reduces labor, saves time
As little as one trip for planting compared to two or more tillage operations means fewer hours on a tractor and fewer labor hours to pay ... or more acres to farm. For instance, on 500 acres the time savings can be as much as 225 hours per year. That’s almost four 60-hour weeks.
2. Saves fuel
Save an average 3.5 gallons an acre or 1,750 gallons on a 500-acre farm.
3. Reduces machinery wear
Fewer trips save an estimated $5 per acre on machinery wear and main ... more. |
Conservation In Action Tour 2009
The Conservation In Action Tour 2009 was a success! More than 80 people from 15 states joined CTIC on July 29 in Western Illinois for a one-day tour visiting three farms and three agricultural facilities. We visited with successful farmers who have mastered innovative conservation practices in their profitable operations and we learned about new tools and technologies that make conservation agriculture not only good for the environment but good for the farm’s bottom line.
Watch this short video
for highlights fr ... more. |
The Conservation In Action Tour 2009 was a success! More than 80 people from 15 states joined CTIC in Western Illinois for a one-day tour visiting three farms and three agricultural facilities. We visited with successful farmers who have mastered innovative conservation practices in their profitable operations and we learned about new tools and technologies that make conservation agriculture not only good for the environment but good for the farm’s bottom line.
Watch this short video for hig ... more. |
... it works
The way you handle materials that could contaminate a water supply, and the distance of possible contaminants from a well or other water source, can have a dramatic effect on the quality of drinking water on the farm. For instance, if you typically mix pesticides near the well, your chances of drinking water contamination from pesticides escalates. To protect your well, take an inventory of farming practices like ... more. |
An earthen embankment around a hillside that stops water flow and stores it or guides it safely off a field.
How it works
Terraces break long slopes into shorter ones. They usually follow the contour. As water makes its way down a hill, terraces serve as small dams to intercept water and guide it to an outlet. There are two basic types of terraces—storage terraces and gradient terraces. Storage terraces collect water and store it until it can ... more. |
CTIC Member since 1983
We have always looked at CTIC as an important link to agribusinesses outside the fertilizer industry, and to the government agencies and NGOs who participate in CTIC.
I believe one of the greatest benefits of our CTIC membership is that the Board meetings and other activities provide a neutral, non-threatening forum for diverse interests to meet and share ideas and concerns. It has provided me and the Foundation for Agronomic Research and the International Plant Nutrition Institute a link to som ... more. |
At CTIC it is our mission to champion, promote and provide information on sustainable agricultural systems that conserve and enhance soil, water, air and wildlife resources and are productive and profitable.
CTIC is proud to be a clearinghouse of information on conservation agriculture. CTIC continues to advance practical systems that improve soil health and water quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance resilience to intensifying cli ... more. |
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC)was formed in 1982 to support the widespread use of economically and environmentally beneficial agricultural systems.
Members of CTIC, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, include farmers, policy makers, regulators, academic researchers, agribusiness leaders, conservation group personnel, farm media, and others. The organization is supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and other public entities. ... more. |
Segments 1-9
Welcome to this collection of training videos on NWCA soil sampling techniques. These brief segments walk through the procedures for sample collection and handling—a great refresher before hoing back into the field, or just to learn more about NWCA sampling. For more detailed training videos on NWCA sampling, click here.
Identifying the Plot Location
Description
Learn how to pick an appropriate spot to sample.
Video Length - 2:23
Fill Out Your Labels
Description
Filling out la ... more. |
40 YEARS OF CONSERVATION IN ACTION
In 2022, the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) is celebrating 40 years of Conservation in Action. That's four decades of bringing a wide range of people to the table to explore conservation farming systems from nearly every angle. Forty years of growth and expansion...from our early projects promoting no-till to our current programs that help farmers, conservationists, agribusiness professionals, academics and policy experts collaborate to protect soil health, water quality and the atmosphere.
Thanks to our members, CTIC has grown over the last four decades, expanded our reach, increased and diversified our partners and worked with t ... more. |
For four decades, CTIC has brought a remarkable range of people to the table to talk about conservation agriculture. Nowhere else is there such a great opportunity to meet policy makers, agribusiness leaders, farmers, researchers, conservation specialists, crop consultants and others...all drawn together by a mutual interest in conservation technologies that are better for farmers and better for the environment.
CTIC is a membership organization, which means your membership—your participation and your dues—keep the doors open. You also give us our momentum, driving us forward on our mission to Connect, Inform and Champion. Your members ... more. |
A fact sheet written by U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) research ecologist Clint Otto used data from the Bee Integrated program, led by the Honey Bee Health Coalition and implemented by CTIC, to help detail which flower species are preferred by bees in the Prairie Pothole region.
According to data from 244 sites in Minnesota and the Dakotas studied over five years, the top draws for both honey bees and native bee species include lacy phacelia, blue giant hyssop, stiff goldenrod, purple prairie clover, and wild bergamot.
"It's g ... more. |
Herb and Aaron Steffen manage a 900-acre grain farm in southern Livingston and northern McLean counties. They hosted a demonstration and two nutrient use efficiency (NUE) trials.
The Steffens plant corn continuously on two-thirds of the acres and rotate planting of corn and soybeans on the rest of the land. Their minimum tillage practices leave at least 30% of the previous crops’ residue on the s ... more. |
What a year! Reflecting back on 2017 makes us grateful for members like you because you helped make it possible. Here are some of the highlights:
Our 2017 Conservation Action Tour drew nearly 200 people from across the country. The tour took place right here in West Lafayette, Indiana and we visited four different farms who are championing conservation agriculture. Thank you to everyone who attended from near and far and who helped support the tour.
We continued to provide technical and educational support across the country through workshops and meetings that brought together farmers, researchers, regulators and policymakers.
We continued to curate information and track trend ... more. |
About the Project
Through a collaborative agreement with the US EPA, CTIC will provide leadership and technical support to successfully plan, organize, coordinate, evaluate and share information from five workshops held between 2015 and 2020.
These workshops will provide attendees the foundation to target, design, and implement conservation practices for their clients. Practices covered will include in-field nutrient management, drainage water management systems, bioreactors, saturated buffers ... more. |
What a year! Reflecting back on 2017 makes us grateful for members like you because you helped make it possible. Here are some of the highlights:
Our 2017 Conservation Action Tour drew nearly 200 people from across the country. The tour took place right here in West Lafayette, Indiana and we visited four different farms who are championing conservation agriculture. Thank you to everyone who attended from near and far and who helped support the tour.
We continued to provide technical and educational support across the country through workshops and meetings that brought together farmers, researchers, regulators and policymakers.
We continued to curate information and track trend ... more. |
Practical Conservation Planning in the Field
August 22-23, 2017
Stuttgart Public Library
Stuttgard, Arkansas
Ph: 870-673-1966
This workshop will provide CCAs and other ag consultants with the foundation to recognize opportunities for reducing their clients’ impact on water quality. The majority of the day will be spent with three speakers—representing industry, agency, and academia—who will lend their expertise to give a complete perspective on a set of edge of field practices. Attendees will also learn about in-field nutrient management ... more. |
Herb and Aaron Steffen manage a 900-acre grain farm in southern Livingston and northern McLean counties. They hosted a demonstration and two nutrient use efficiency (NUE) trials.
The Steffens plant corn continuously on two-thirds of the acres and rotate planting of corn and soybeans on the rest of the land. Their minimum tillage practices leave at least 30% of the previous crops’ residue on the ... more. |
The annual Ag Media Summit attracts more than 600 ag journalists, and this year CTIC joined the fun. CTIC's 30th Anniversary exhibit at the AMS Info Expo drew many visitors - long-time friends, members also exhibiting and new faces interested to learn what we do and how to get a fun gift bag from our booth.
David Crow, founder of DC Legislative and Regulatory Services, Inc. and CTIC member, joined CTIC Executive Director Karen Scanlon at the ... more. |
Planting grass and legumes to reduce soil erosion and improve production.
How it works
Drill or broadcast adapted grass or legumes into a low-producing pasture or a steep, eroding cropland field.
How it helps
Heavy grass cover slows water f ... more. |
Strips of grass or legumes in a contoured field, which help trap sediment and nutrients. Similar to stripcropping, but with narrower grass or
legume strips.
How it works
A series of grass strips are placed across the slope on a contour. The alternating strips of grass or other permanent vegetation slow runoff flow, trap sediment from the crop strips above, and increase water infiltration. Because the buffer strip is established on the contour, runoff flows even ... more. |
Tuesday, August 25th
9am to 5pm
East Main Street Christian Church
Elwood, Indiana
Presentations from the meeting are below:
Cover Crops, No-till, and Soil Quality, Dan Towery
Indiana Specific Niches, Dave Robison
You have heard about the benefits of cover crops, now learn how to make them work! Spend the day with an all star cast of speakers from Purdue University, NRCS, Michigan State University, CISCO seeds and Ag Conservation Solutions and learn how to use cover crops on your operation.
The Conservation Technology Information ... more. |
Shaping and establishing grass in a natural drainage way to prevent gullies from forming.
How it works
A natural drainage way is graded and shaped to form a smooth, bowl-shaped channel. This area is seeded to sod-forming grasses. Runoff water that flows down the drainage way flows across the grass rather than tearing away soil and forming a larger gully. An outlet is often installed at the base of th ... more. |
CTIC Presents: Farmers for Soil Health webinars
Termination and Management of Cover Crops
in the North Central States
February 6, 2024
Description: Featured speakers:
Colin Geppert, a farmer in South Dakota
Dr. Erin Silva of University of Wisconsin
Myron Sylling, a farmer in Minnesota
Join the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) and Farmers for Soil Health on Tuesday, February 6 at 10:00 am CST for a free webinar on cov ... more. |
CTIC Data Licensing Agreement
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) provides Data to the public as part of its mission to champion, promote, and provide information about comprehensive conservation and sustainable agricultural systems that are beneficial for soil, water, air and wildlife resources and are productive and profitable for agriculture. By using Data from the CTIC web-site, the User agrees to the following Data Licensing Terms (modeled after “Attribution ShareAlike CC BY-SA”):
(1) The User will properly attrib ... more. |
In a 1-hour webinar available on-demand through CTIC's website, Dr. Roderick Rejesus of North Carolina State University described how he used OpTIS data to explore whether crop insurance programs discourage growers from planting cover crops.
The webinar, recorded live on April 29, is part of a six-webinar series coordinated by CTIC over the next two years. The April program also features Soren Rundquist of Regrow Ag an ... more. |
The Phosphorus Load-Reduction Stimulus (PLUS-UP) Program is paying 10 growers this summer for reducing dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) loads in the Western Lake Erie Basin on 104 fields covering more than 5,300 acres. Payments average $9.12 per acre.
The program, which emphasizes the role of no-till and cover crops in reducing the off-farm movement of DRP into surface waters, is detailed in this interactive story map.
CTIC and The Andersons will host a 4Rs Nutrient Stewardship meeting in Maumee, Ohio, on August 23. A PLUS-UP stakeholder workshop will be held the following day in Toledo, Ohio. Watch this link for details.
With a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection ... more. |
... program between EPA, states and tribes designed to assess the quality of the nation's coastal waters, lakes and reservoirs, rivers and streams, and wetlands using a statistical survey design. The workshop coveredtopics relevant to all four waterbody types. The program included an address and Q&A session with John Goodin, director of US EPA's Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds.
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CTIC, in conjunction with U.S. EPA and the Agricultural Drainage Management Coalition (ADMC), will be hosting a Drainage Water Management Certification webinar on July 7, 2022. The webinar will be a 6-hour interactive online training and certification course on planning drainage water management systems.
A total of 5 CEUs will be available for CCAs and PEs. Partial CEUs will be available for completion of session 1, 2, or ... more. |
PLEASE NOTE CORRECT TIME:
Online Press Conference Wednesday, August 19, 10:00 am Eastern/9:00 am Central
Insight from 1,172 farmers across the U.S. shines a light on cover cropping trends, including deep dives into "planting green" into living cover crops, using cover crops for weed control, and the impact of cover crops on cash crop planting dates during the wet spring of 2019. This year's survey included strings of questions for both commodity/row crop growers and producers of horticulture crops.
On Wednesday, August 19 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern/9:00 a.m. Central, the data and 2020 National Cover Crop Survey report will be introduced to the press in a presentation and Q&A sessio ... more. |
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) is seeking applicants interested in serving as its new Executive Director in order to carry out its mission, which is to “connect, champion, and provide information on sustainable agricultural systems and technologies that are productive, profitable and preserve natural resources.”
The Executive Director is responsible for oversight and direction of programs, including quality control, financial and budget management, fund raising, fostering member involvement and commitment, facilitating public/private partnerships, an ... more. |
The National Aquatic Resource Surveys (NARS) are collaborative programs between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), states and tribes that assess the quality of the nation's inland and coastal waters, providing vital data that can help guide conservation efforts on the landscape.
CTIC works with EPA and its partners on technical training to carry out NARS assessments, and to promote conservation systems that help protect and improve water quality.
Through articles, videos and other media, we hope to inform farm ... more. |
2018 Conservation In Action Tour – July 10-11, Eastern Shore of Maryland
For 11 years, we've been bringing together people from across the country with different perspectives on conservation agriculture for a front row view of the latest and best management practices.
Registration is OPEN!Click hereto register.
The designated tour hotel is the Westin of Annapolis. Book your room by June 8 to secure the block rate. The Westin is honoring the bloc ... more. |
CTIC Institutional Gold Member, Soil and Water Conservation Society, has a mission to foster the science and art of natural resource conservation. Their work targets conservation of soil, water, and related natural resources on working land - the land used to produce food, fiber, and other services that improve the quailty of life people experience in rural and urban communities. They work to discover, develop, implement, an ... more. |
February 18, 2010
8:30 am – 4:00 pm (Central time)
Verizon Wireless Center
1 Civic Center Plaza
Mankato, Minnesota
Commercial fertilizer and livestock manure are recognized assets to agricultural operations. They both contain essential plant nutrients which enhance crop yields when properly applied to soils. Nutrients can be managed efficiently with the latest techniques and technologies, to avoid the potential financial and environmental risks of nitrogen and phosphorus reaching surface and ground water. Learn about research developm ... more. |
Farming with row patterns nearly level around the hill—not up and down hill.
How it works
Crop row ridges built by tilling and/or planting on the contour create hundreds of small dams. These ridges or dams slow water flow and increase infiltration which reduces erosion.
How it helps
Contouring can reduce soil erosion by as much as 50% from up and down hill farming. *
By reducing sediment and runoff, and increasing water infiltration, contourin ... more. |
CTIC thanks our Medal Members for supporting the promotion of comprehensive conservation and sustainable agricultural systems.
CTIC Medal Members
In 2009, CTIC launched a new membership structure that allows members to receive additional value and recognition for their support of comprehensive conservation and sustainable agricultural systems. With additional membership dues above the basic leve ... more. |
Research & Technology Briefs
By Rachel Doctor
Midwest Cover Crops Council Web Site Introduced
Midwestern farmers wanting to learn more about cover crops now have a central information source where they can easily find practical ways to use them.
The Midwest Cover Crops Council (MCCC) recently introduced a Web site as an educational tool to help expand the knowledge compiled since the group's formation two years ago to farmers and others in agricultural-related fields.
To read the full article, click here.
Visit the MCC Web site, www.mccc.msu.edu/
Ecological Society of America Encourages Ethanol Incentives
The United States lacks the standards to ensure producing biofuels from cellulose won't cause damage to the envi ... more. |
Structure that stores manure until conditions are appropriate for field application.
How it works
The type of manure storage structure you use depends upon your livestock operation, animal waste management system and planned field application. Several options exist including an earthen storage pond, above or below ground tank, pit underneath a confinement facility or a sheltered concrete slab area. Manure can be pumped, scraped and hauled, pushed or flushed into your storage structure. The structure's purpose is to safely contain the manure and keep nutrient loss and pollution of downstream water bodies t ... more. |
A strip of grass, trees or shrubs that filters runoff and removes sediment, fertilizer, and pesticides before they reach water bodies or water sources including wells.
How it works
Strips of grass, trees and/or shrubs slow water flow and cause contaminants like sediment, pesticides, and fertilizers to collect in vegetation. Collected nutrients are used by the vegetation, rather than entering water supplies. Filtered water then enters water bodie ... more. |
Leaving last year's crop residue on the soil surface by limiting tillage. Includes no-till, mulch-till and ridge till.
How it works
Leaving last year's crop residue on the surface before and during planting operations provides cover for the soil at a critical time of the year. The residue is left on the surface by reducing tillage operations and turning the soil less. Pieces of crop residue shield soil particles from rain and wind until plants can produce a protective canopy.
... more. |
CNMPs are very important resources. They provide valuable natural resource management information and help farmers and ranchers comply with water quality regulations. The final EPA regulation for CAFOs and recent public pressure elevate the importance of this NRCS planning assistance. You are encouraged to emphasize this importance and continue to communicate and collaborate with livestock and poultry industry producers and representatives.
Contact. Additional copies may be ordered for NRCS off ... more. |
Economic and Environmental Benefits
Profit.
Managing to maximize return on your cropping investment (ROI) requires the perfect combination of science, technology, art, and luck. Some factors, like the weather, still require a bit of luck. Thankfully, science and technology continue to make strides, reducing the impact of uncontrollable factors like the weather and markets. This reduces the risk inherent i ... more. |
CTIC Member since 2003
Initially, Agrotain International joined CTIC to be affiliated with an organization that promoted no-till agriculture directly to farmers, to increase name recognition of our products with producers, and to provide product for demonstration purposes in areas where CTIC was promoting no-till agriculture. We win farmers as customers one at a time, and we were hoping that the affiliation with CTIC would give us more opportunity for direct contact with more producers.
Heretofore we saw the benefits of our CTIC membership in direct contact with producers, dealers and researchers during the summer ... more. |
2023 NARS National Conference
April 24-28th, 2023
CTICis cordinating theNational Aquatic Resource Surveys (NARS) National Workshop under a Cooperative Agreement with EPA’s NARS program.
NARS is acollaborative program between EPA, states and tribes designed to assess the quality of the nation's coastal waters, lakes and reservoirs, rivers and streams, and wetlands using a statistical survey design. The workshop will cover topics relevant to all four waterbody types and the NARS program generally.
For the NARS workshop being held in conjunction with the National Monitoring Conference in Virginia Beach, we ar ... more. |
On April 24-28th, 2023,CTICis cordinating theNational Aquatic Resource Surveys (NARS) National Workshop under a Cooperative Agreement with EPA’s NARS program.
NARS is acollaborative program between EPA, states and tribes designed to assess the quality of the nation's coastal waters, lakes and reservoirs, rivers and streams, and wetlands using a statistical survey design. The workshop coveredtopics relevant to all four waterbody types and the NARS program generally.
For the NARS workshop being held in conjunction with the National Monitoring Conference in Virginia Beach, we ar ... more. |
CTIC will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year, looking back at the evolution of the organization—and of conservation agriculture in America—and looking forward to the next 40 years of the organization's mission.
Over the years, CTIC has progressed from a strong focus on no-till and reduced tillage to a broader approach to economic and environmental sustainability that grew to include water and air quality, soil health, and climate-smart agriculture. Through it all, CTI ... more. |
... at the National Center for Water Quality Research at Heidelberg University is using the Nutrient Tracking Tool, or NTT, to model the effects of conservation practices on dissolved reactive phosphorus on each field enrolled in PLUS-UP. Developed by the Texas Institute for Applied Environmental Research at Tarleton State University, NTT is a powerful tool for estimating the nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment losses from cropland and pasture.
NTT is available online and draws on a comprehensive soil database, making it extremely accurate on a field scale. The model includes a wide range of crops, rotations, nutrient and management options that allow users to calculate economic and environmental outcomes based on real-world data. The versatility and accuracy of NTT make it an idea ... more. |
Bayer CropScience, The Mosaic Company, Syngenta and the Conservation Infrastructure Initiative co-led by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and the Iowa Association of Water Agencies (IAWA) have signed on as a Diamond-level sponsors of the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) Conservation in Action Tour. The tour, which will be held August 20 and 21 in Des Moines, Iowa, is CTIC's 12th annual program of ... more. |
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Bayer CropScience, The Mosaic Company, Syngenta and the Conservation Infrastructure Initiative co-led by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and the Iowa Association of Water Agencies (IAWA) have signed on as a Diamond-level sponsors of the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) Conservation in Action Tour. The tour, which will be held August 20 and 21 in Des Moines, Iowa, is CTIC's 12th annual program of ... more. |
CTIC welcomed participants from Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Ontario, South Dakota, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. And more than 15 agribusinesses shared their knowledge, expertise and product information.
Rex Martin, CTIC board chair and Syngenta Crop Protection head of industry affairs, shares his thoughts. “This tour really shows the value of CTIC – bringing together a diverse group of people to learn about, talk about and explore new opportunities for conservation in ag ... more. |
Don't forget to register AND book your hotel room for the 2018 Conservation In Action Tour!
Join us on the Eastern Shore of Maryland on July 10 and 11 for our 11thannual Conservation in Action Tour. For more than a decade, we’ve been bringing together people from across the country with different perspectives on conservation agriculture for a front row view of the latest and best management practices. This year& ... more. |
CTIC brings people together to share insight and data on agricultural conservation.
Renew Your CTIC Membership ...Or Join!
With the conservation title of the next farm bill in the works, farmers finding ways to use conservation practices to cut costs, and consumer pressure on for growers to farm sustainable, CTIC is at the leading edge of a wide rangeof hot topics. This is a perfect time for you and your comp ... more. |
Don't forget to register for the 2018 Conservation In Action Tour!
We’d love for you to join us on the Eastern Shore of Maryland on July 10 and 11 for our 11thannual Conservation in Action Tour. For more than a decade, we’ve been bringing together people from across the country with different perspectives on conservation agriculture for a front row view of the latest and best management practices. This year’s theme, “Bringing Back the Bay: Partnerships, Profitable Farms, Clean Water, & Innovativ ... more. |
The objectives of the National Aquatic Resource Surveys (NARS) Workshop and Training Sessions were to bring together EPA, State, Tribal and other partners working on water monitoring issues across waterbody types to:
Discuss and share information on the national aquatic resource surveys and their relationship to other state/tribal programs.
Provide technical training and tools so that States, Tribes and other partners can build their capacity to implement aquatic ... more. |
Target Audience
In addition to the memberships of project partners, CTIC will design the workshops with the following groups in mind:
- Agricultural retailers
- Certified Crop Advisors (CCAs)
- Land Improvement Contractors of America (LICA)
- Members of Agricultural Drainage Management Coalition (ADMC)
- National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants (NAICC)
- NRCS Technical Service Providers (TSPs)
- Soil and Water Conservation District staff and engineers
Through a collaborative agreement with the US EPA, CTIC will provide leadership and techni ... more. |
CTIC celebrates International Year of Soils at 2015 Commodity Classic. Visit CTIC at Commodity Classic booth 918, where Karen Scanlon, CTIC executive director, and Chad Watts, CTIC project director, will discuss:
Our multi-state project to document the agronomic and economic benefits of cover crops.
The 2015 Conservation in Action Tour in Minnesota, which will feature innovative partnership efforts for conservation farming success.
CTIC’s work to track cover crop use and document the benefits of keepi ... more. |
WinMax is a computer program developed at Purdue University to calculate and compare economic returns on crop production.
From 1991-1998, WinMax and its earlier DOS version were used to manage data for the national Farming for Maximum Efficiency program (The MAX®) sponsored byCTICand Successful Farming magazine.
WinMax manages crop input data, calculates crop fertilizer recommendations, generates production cost and nutrient management worksheets, ... more. |
Agrium is a major retail supplier of agricultural products and services in North and South America and a leading global marketer of agricultural nutrients and industrial products. We produce and market three primary groups of nutrients: nitrogen, phosphate and potash as well as controlled-release fertilizers and micronutrients.
Working with growers, industry associations, government and researchers, we strive to ensure nutrients are applied in amounts that ... more. |
Conservation Buffer Facts
Conservation Buffers are small areas or strips of land in vegetation, designed to slow water runoff, provide
shelter and stabilize riparian areas. Strategically placed in the agricultural landscape, buffers can effectively mitigate
the movement of sediment, nutrients, and pesticides within farm fields. Buffers include: contour buffer strips, field
orders, filter strips, windbreaks, and wetlands. A small amount of land in buffers can assi ... more. |
CTIC Institutional Member, the Virginia Tech Geography Department, works to foster an appreciation and understanding of the diversity of Earth's physical and cultural environments, the importance and value of a spacial perspective, and an understanding of the complex interrelationships between peoples and their environments at a variety of scales. Their goal is to provide students with the intellectual and technical skills to synthesize information, become critical thinkers, develop into ... more. |
CTIC welcomed participants from Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Ontario, South Dakota, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. And more than 15 agribusinesses shared their knowledge, expertise and product information.
Rex Martin, CTIC board chair and Syngenta Crop Protection head of industry affairs, shares his thoughts. “This tour really shows the value of CTIC – bringing together a diverse group of people to learn about, talk about and explore new opportunities for conserva ... more. |
CTIC fulfills its mission with the generous
support of our members.
CTIC Medal Members
In 2009, CTIC launched a new membership structure that allows members to receive additional value and recognition for their support of comprehensive conservation and sustainable agricultural systems. With additional membership dues above the basic level in each membership category, members achieve medal status of Gold, Silver or Bronze. The additional support provided by our Medal Members enables CTIC to enhance our regional and national projects, to explore new partnership opportunities and to b ... more. |
Research & Technology Briefs
Calculating Economic Returns for Conservation Tillage and Cotton
Scientists at the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) have improved the precision of calculating the costs and benefits of using conservation tillage in cotton production.
Learn more at this web site: www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2009/090317.htm.
EPA Announces Video Contest
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will award $2,500 to the winning video that educat ... more. |
... a terrace
is impractical; usually part of a terrace system.
How it works
An embankment is built across a depressional area of concentrated water runoff to act similar to a terrace. It traps sediment and water running off farmland above the structure, preventing it from reaching farmland below.
How it helps
Basins improve water quality by trapping sediment on uplands and preventing it from reaching water bodies.
Structures reduce gully erosion by controlling water flow within a drainage area. Grass cover may provide habitat for wildlife.
Planning ahead
Will basins be part of an ... more. |
By Nigel Key, William D. McBride, and Marc Ribaudo
Economic Information Bulletin No. (EIB-50) 29 pp, March 2009
In recent years, structural changes in the hog sector, including increased farm size and regional shifts in production, have altered manure management practices. Also, changes to the Clean Water Act, State regulations, and increasing local conflicts over air quality issues, including odor, have influenced manure ... more. |
Planting grass or other vegetation to protect a badly eroding area from soil erosion.
How it works
Grass, legumes, trees or shrubs are established in small, isolated areas of excessive erosion. The vegetation provides surface cover to stop the raindrop splash and slow water flow.
How it helps
It reduces soil erosion.
A vegetated area improves water quality by reducing the amount of sediment, nutrients and chemicals running off farmland.
Protects areas such as dams, terrace backslopes or gullied areas when vegetation may be difficult to establish.
Vegetation can be planted to provide small areas of nesting cover for birds and small animals.
... more. |
Cover crop Survey
Click here to read the insight from nearly 1,200 commodity and horticultural crop farmers from across the country on why they do—or don't—use cover crops. Among the highlights of this year's survey results include data on the performance of cover crops during the extremely wet 2019 planting season, including effects on planting date and prevent plant claims, as well as data on the crop insurance programs favored by cover crop users.
&n ... more. |
Modeled DNDC Soil and GHG Outcomes for Grasslands
The Denitrification-Decomposition (DNDC) model was used to simulate carbon and nitrogen soil dynamics in grassland soils.
Explore the Grassland DNDC Modeling Results
DNDC Summary
Data are available for soil carbon changes and GHG emissions.
The soil and GHG outcomes (methane, as well as indirect and direct nitrous oxide) are based on the ... more. |
The Conservation Technology Information Center
The Conservation Technology Information Center promotes, supports and provides information on conservation technologies & sustainable agricultural systems.
Read More
The Latest on Cover Crops and Residue
The Operational Tillage Information System—OpTIS—uses publicly available satellite imagery and a unique algorithm to provide insight on cover crop adoption and tillage practices. With a great visualization tool and data going back ... more. |
Notification and Risk Communication
Beach Report Card and NowCast: Successes and Challenges of Public Water Quality Notifications
Luke Ginger
Speaker Bio
Luke Ginger is a Water Quality Scientist at the Southern California nonprofit Heal the Bay. He spends his time looking out for the people who go to the beaches, rivers, and streams by managing the organization’s recrea ... more. |
... website features easy-to-use visualization tools for both OpTIS and DNDC data. The tools can be used by a wide range of interested people, including:
Scientists
Policy makers
Administrators of carbon markets
Agribusiness
Conservationists
Farm advisors
"With 14 years' worth of data reported at the watershed HUC-8 or crop reporting district scale, OpTIS provides insight into snapshots or trends of soil health practices across the Corn Belt," notes Dave Gustafson, OpTIS project director for CTIC. "Running these data through DNDC adds a very exciting tool for understanding the effects of those practices on key metrics such as soil carbon, and using the visualization tools on our website reall ... more. |
Click here to view the full report of the fifth annual cover crop survey. A big thank you to the USDA's Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program (SARE) and the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), with help from Penton Media through their Corn and Soybean Digest publication. For results from previous years, please see below.
The fifth annual cover crop survey by the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program and the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) draws on the insight of 2,102 f ... more. |
DIG DEEP INTO CONSERVATION PRACTICES ON CTIC'S CONSERVATION IN ACTION TOUR, AUG 20-21
The Conservation in Action Tour on August 20 and 21, organized by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), will give participants a chance to dig deep into a wide range of conservation farming practices, including constructed systems such as wood chip bioreactors, saturated buffers, sediment control basins and others.
The tour begins and ends in Des Moines. I ... more. |
CTIC, with support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, hosted a half-day training for Iowa ag consultants at the Iowa Agribusiness Showcase and Conference in Des Moines on February 13, 2019.
The training drew more than 60 attendees, and covered a wide range of conservation systems geared toward Iowa farms.
"This ag consultant training and others like it that we are running around the country are designed to help ag consultants guide their farmers toward practices that can help them achieve economic and environmen ... more. |
... nutrients in the Right Place, where crops can use them.
A soil test showed a relatively low phosphorus level, so we selected a demonstration of Mosaic’s Micro-Essentials (MESZ) applied as a side-dress (plant nutrients placed on or in the soil near the roots of a growing crop) treatment to provide an additional boost in available phosphorus.
MESZ allows uniform nutrient distribution and provides essential nutrients crops need in one granule. It has two forms of sulfur for season-long nutrition.
MESZ allows uniform nutrient distribution and provides essential nutrients crops need in one granule. It has two forms of sulfur for season-long nutrition.
Operation
Herb and Aaron Steffen, of Cropsey, Ill., operate a 900 acre grain farm in southern Livingston and northern Mclean ... more. |
A big thank you to the USDA's Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program (SARE) and the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), with help from Penton Media through their Corn and Soybean Digest publication. For results from previous years, please see below.
The fifth annual cover crop survey by the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program and the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) draws on the insight of 2,102 f ... more. |
Links to the National Surveys
The National Aquatic Resource Surveys
The National Wetland Condition Assessment
The National Coastal Condition Assessment
The National Lakes Assessment
The National Rivers and Streams Assessment
Aquatic Resource Monitoring, EPA ORD
Aquatic Resource Monitoring, EPA ORD
This Web site provides information on monitoring of aquatic resources in the US, primarily focused on design and analysis of probability based surveys. Links are provided to ... more. |
This national workshop will bring together EPA, State, Tribal and other partners working on water monitoring issues across waterbody types to discuss and share information on the national aquatic resource surveys and their relationship to other state/tribal programs, provide technical training and tools so that States, Tribes and other partners can build their capacity to implement aquatic resource surveys at multiple scales (data management, analysis, interpre ... more. |
This national workshop will bring together EPA, State, Tribal and other partners working on water monitoring issues across waterbody types to discuss and share information on the national aquatic resource surveys and their relationship to other state/tribal programs, provide technical training and tools so that States, Tribes and other partners can build their capacity to implement aquatic resource surveys at multiple scales (data management, analysis, interpre ... more. |
CTIC celebrated its 30th anniversary on October 25, 2012, at Monsanto's facility in Creve Coeur, Mo., with a pair of panel discussions exploring the past, present and future of agricultural conservation. That evening, the organization also held a dinner banquet honoring the visionaries who created, led and supported the organization over the past three decades.
“Celebrating CTIC’s 30th anniversary is a perfect opportunity to take stock of the conservation achievements of American agriculture over the last 30 years, trace the path ... more. |
CTIC took a party theme to the 67th International Annual Conference of the Soil and Water Conservation Society, titled "Choosing Conservation: Considering Ecology, Economics and Ethics," held July 22-25 in Fort Worth, Texas. Our exhibit stood out with balloons and festive gift bags to celebrate our 30 years of service to agriculture.
Karen Scanlon, CTIC executive director, and Chad Watts, CTIC project director, talked w ... more. |
What is agriculture doing to protect water quality and improve soil health? Find out on CTIC's Conservation in Action Tour 2010. Participants will visit farms and farmers in east central Virginia who have built successful, profitable farming operations through conservation and are providing their community with valuable ecosystem services. Recognizing, supporting and paying for agriculture’s ecosystem services – through government pro ... more. |
CTIC Institutional Member, the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD), is the nonprofit organization that represents America’s 3,000 conservation districts and the 17,000 men and women who serve on their governing boards. Conservation districts are local units of government established under state law to carry out natural resource management programs at the local level. Districts work with millions of cooperating landowners and operators to help them manage and protect land and water resources on all private lands and many public lands in the United Sta ... more. |
CTIC Institutional Member, Michigan State University, is one of the top research universities in the world - on one of the biggest, greenest campuses in the nation. Home to nationally ranked and recognized academic, residential college, and service-learning programs, a diverse community of dedicated students and scholars, athletes and artist, scientists and leaders. In ways both practical and profound, they work to create a stronger, more sustainable, and more hopeful future for all. To learn more about Michigan State University, visit www.msu.edu/
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CTIC Corporate Member, Truax Company, has been in business in Minneapolis, Minnesota building grass-seeding equipment since 1974. Truax equipment is designed from the top down to effectively meter and plant grass seeds at the required shallow depth. Truax Company utilizes a direct market approach between the manufacturer and the customer for both initial sales and service. This approach has been successful in helping keep customer costs down as well as keeping open a direct line of communication between the manufacturer and the end user. Customers are located in 49 of the 50 US States as well ... more. |
CTIC Corporate Member, Jenner Sales, has always had a single driving force and that has been to service the application equipment business. Forty-nince years ago, when Jenner Sales began, who would have ever believed application equipment and technology would advance so dramatically, as well as change so rapidly.
Technology and equipment has changed a lot over this time, but forty-nine years of servicing customers and making the right technology recomme ... more. |
As the Conservation Technology Information Center celebrates its 30th anniversary throughout 2012, we will recognize corporate, institutional and individual members for their loyalty and offer our thanks for their years of support.
“CTIC values each member,” says Karen Scanlon, executive director. “All of our successes, past and present, depend on the participation, input and support of our members.”
In 1982, a group of agribusiness leaders, together with the National Association of Con ... more. |
CTIC and Purdue University aim to understand why farmers adopt practices eligible for carbon offset credits.The core research question is: To what degree do non-financial factors, such as how information is presented, shape farmers’ willingness to adopt offset-eligible agricultural practices? Based on recent work in economic, political and agricultural decision-making,the primary hypothe ... more. |
CTIC's new publication, Facilitating Conservation Farming Practices and Enhancing Environmental Sustainability with Agricultural Biotechnology, explores the breadth of the environmental benefits of conservation tillage practices, which are facilitated significantly by biotechnology crops. Access the full document and executive summary to learn about the dramatic improvements in environmental sustainability and productivity over the past several years.
According ... more. |
CTIC Medal Members
CTIC proudly recognizes The Mosaic Company, CTIC Gold Corporate Member.
CTIC’s Medal Membership allows members to receive added value and recognition for their support of comprehensive conservation and sustainable agricultural systems. With additional membership dues above the basic level in each membership category, members achieve medal status of Gold, Silver or Bronze. The support provided by Medal Members enables CTIC to enhance regional and national projects, to explore new partnership opportunities and to gain national recogn ... more. |
CTIC's new publication, Facilitating Conservation Farming Practices and Enhancing Environmental Sustainability with Agricultural Biotechnology, explores the breadth of the environmental benefits of conservation tillage practices, which are facilitated significantly by biotechnology crops. Access the full document and executive summary to learn about the dramatic improvements in environmental sustainability and productivity over the past several years.
According ... more. |
Contour Strip- cropping
Crop rotation and contouring combined in equal-width strips of corn or soybeans planted on the contour and alternated with strips of oats, grass or legumes.
How it works
Crops are arranged so that a strip of meadow or small grain is alternated with a strip of row crop. Not more than half a field can be planted to row crops. Meadow slows runoff, increases infiltration, traps sediment and provides surface cover. ... more. |
CTIC Member since 2001
Initially, the Delta Conservation Demonstration Center joined CTIC for the exchange of information from different organizations and groups. We are seeing that benefit today.
CTIC keeps us informed of opportunities to participate in grants and meetings. This organization is a conduit to share information, and through CTIC, we have the opportunity to share what we are doing with other producers and organizations.
The greatest benefits of our CTIC membership, I believe, are receiving the results of surveys conducted by ... more. |
Conservation in Action Tour Sponsors
Become a crucial part of the Conservation in Action Tour's success by becoming a sponsor. Your sponsorship not only supports the advancement of conservation agriculture but also provides valuable visibility for your brand. Enjoy benefits such as opportunities to address attendees, logo placement, recognition in promotional materials, and exclusive networking opportunities.
Four Sponsorship Levels Available
Ruby, Diamond, Platinum and Gold
Two Special Sponsorships Available
Banquet and Keynote Speaker, Closing Reception
Download the prospectus
Sponsor today!To learn more abou ... more. |
Past Projects
CTIC and its partners lead projects at the local, regional and national level to address agriculture's pressing conservation needs. Each projectincludes public and private sector partners, shares information about new technology and tools, and promotes agricultural systems that are both economically viable and environmentally beneficial.
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Helpful Links
CTIC and its partners lead projects at the local, regional and national level to address agriculture's pressing conservation needs. Each projectincludes public and private sector partners, shares information about new technology and tools, and promotes agricultural systems that are both economically viable and environmentally beneficial.
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Celebrating Agriculture, Wildlife and Rural Traditions
Hosted in Conjunction with the 17th Annual CTIC Conservation In Action Tour
12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, June 10th 2024
This free, interactive, in-person event will take place at theDucks Unlimited National Headquarters, where you'll be surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your passion for conservation. Limited to 50 attendees, don't miss out on thi ... more. |
Since its inception, CTIC has been the go-to source for data on the adoption of conservation practices across the U.S. Though federal support of the popular crop residue management transect survey ended in 2004, scientists, policy makers and marketers have continued to tap CTIC's databases. Now, we're at the forefront of using remote sensing to bring back state, regional and national data on crop residue and cover crop management.
Operational Tillage Information System (OpTIS)
The Operational Tillage Information System (OpTIS) has been developed by Regrow, TNC, and CTIC as a method for the automated use of remote sensin ... more. |
... 2023 Conservation in Action Tour!
Registration for the Conservation in Action Tour in Frankenmuth, Michigan is still open. Join us next week, July 10-11th.
This year’s tour theme, Experiencing Conservation in Supply Chains, will help connect the circle from farmer to consumer.
Attendees can look forward to seeing the supply chain up close and personal, including cutting edge dairy practices, specialty crops like sugar beets and dry beans, milling and processing, and more!
Check out the agenda for the tour atHERE.
Online registration for the tour is quick and easy athttps://www.ctic.org/tourregistration.
The registration fee includes all tour activities, bus transportation and ... more. |
... Social
John Deere
Diamond
Bayer CropScience
Monsanto
Platinum
Dow AgroSciences
Syngenta
The Fertilizer Institute
Click hereto see a complete list of 2017 Tour sponsors.
Why attend the Tour?
This is one of the most well-organized multi-stop tours I've ever been on - I'm hoping to take some of your great ideas and implement them.
~Anonymous, 2016 Tour Participant
I loved every second of the tour. Networking and meeting new people, experiencing the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA), learning new facts and being inspired by the passion of the EAA researchers and growers all contributed to making the tour an incredible experience. I am so glad I was able to attend. I am already planning for next year!
... more. |
... Reach new horizons with CTIC
In 2022, the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) celebrated 40 years of Conservation in Action. That's four decades of bringing a wide range of people to the table to advance conservation agriculture...from our early projects promoting no-till to our current programs that help farmers, conservationists, agribusiness professionals, academics and policymakers protect soil health, water quality and the atmosphere.In 2023, CTIC will continue that legacy as the trusted source for data on conservation farming practices, the coordinator of demonstration projects, a builder of local capacity, and a partner in developing high-impact education on conservation systems.We’re going to keep our boots on the ground and our hands in the soil as w ... more. |
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) is launching a search for a new executive director as Mike Komp, who led the organization for the past three years, moves on to a new opportunity.
"CTIC has strengthened its capabilities under Mike's leadership, and we wish him great success in his new endeavors as we take on the next stage of the organization's growth," says Mark White of Syngenta, CTIC's board chair.
An ideal candidate will combine leadership skills, technical acumen and a passion for helping farmers succeed with practices that help them become more economically and environmentally sustainable, says White.
&nbs ... more. |
VirtualNational Recreational Water Quality Workshop
April 6-8, 2021
About the Workshop:
This virtual format, 3-day workshop will be a forum for recreational water quality managers, stakeholders, researchers and public health officials at all levels to share information and ideas about implementing a successful recreational water program. The focus of this workshop is on two common challenges in ambient recreational waters: fecal contamination and harmful algal blooms.
We are excited to offer a flexible format for this event. Pre-recorded presentations will be available for viewing beginning ... more. |
... the 2020 SARE/CTIC/ASTA Cover Crop Survey. The survey will close on Monday, April 13th. We plan post a report describing results at www.ctic.org by early July.
If you haven't already, please share your insight on cover crops, atbit.ly/CCSurvey2020. Your answers on previous surveys have helped scientists, conservation farming partners, crop consultants, policymakers and others understand how cover crops are used and perceived in the field.
In fact, these survey reports have even been cited in Congressional testimony.
By participating in this year’s survey, you will be helping us stay up to date on cover crop issues and practices, and may allow us to spot trends in cover crop use. The survey takes just 10 to 15 minutes to com ... more. |
Join us at the basic membership level that fits you best – Individual, Institutional or Corporate. For additional benefits and recognition, increase your contribution. Each level includes additionalbenefits through Gold, Silver and Bronze.
All CTIC members benefit from:
One-year subscription to Conservation Partners and Member Mail e-newsletters
Free access to higher-resolution data from the OpTIS Operational Tillage Information System database
Recognition on CTIC’s web page
Please identify ... more. |
CTIC has worked closely with U.S. EPA's Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds (OWOW) to organize a national, invitation-only NARS (National Aquatic Resource Surveys) meeting for 125 water quality professionals. Participants from federal, state and tribal agencies, as well as contract partners, will attend.
The NARS meeting, held in Denver March 25-29 in conjunction with the National Water Quality Monitoring Conference, will explore the direction of EPA's ... more. |
... soil test showed a relatively low phosphorus level, so we selected a demonstration of Mosaic’s Micro-Essentials (MESZ) applied as a side-dress (plant nutrients placed on or in the soil near the roots of a growing crop) treatment to provide an additional boost in available phosphorus.
MESZ allows uniform nutrient distribution and provides essential nutrients crops need in one granule. It has two forms of sulfur for season-long nutrition.
It was side-dressed at two rates with a control plot where it was not applied.
Operation
Herb and Aaron Steffen, of Cropsey, Ill., operate a 900 acre grain farm in southern Livingston and northern Mclean counties. Two thirds of the acreage is devoted ... more. |
Sustainable Agriculture Resaerch and Education (SARE) program and CTIC conducted a national survey of farmers to learn more about their use of cover crops. More than 1,900 farmers completed the survey, which was a follow-up to a smaller survey in 2012-2013 (see below). Results show a yield boost from the use of cover crops in corn and soybeans, data on the costs of seed and establishment, the challenges and benefits farmers expect f ... more. |
2018 Conservation in Action Tour dates and location
Mark your calendars! We are thrilled to announce that our 11th annual Conservation in Action Tour will take place on July 11 and 12 near the beautiful Chesapeake Bay in the Maryland and Washington D.C. area. More information will be announced as it is finalized in the coming months. We're excited to continue bringing together people from across the country with different perspecti ... more. |
The National Crop Residue Management (CRM) Survey is the only survey in the U.S. to measure at the county level the type of tillage used by crop. Tillage methods tracked are: no-till, mulch-till, reduced-till, and conventional tillage. Click here to see the tillage definitions.
Available Data
Data is available online from 1989 to 2008. Some of the data can be accessed without a password (unsecured data) and the rest requires a log in and password (secured data). Passwords are given to institutional and corporate members of CTIC. Read more information about how to become a member. Our last full set of ... more. |
Sustainable Agriculture Resaerch and Education (SARE) program and CTIC conducted a national survey of farmers to learn more about their use of cover crops. More than 1,900 farmers completed the survey, which was a follow-up to a smaller survey in 2012-2013 (see below). Results show a yield boost from the use of cover crops in corn and soybeans, data on the costs of seed and establishment, the challenges and benefits farmers expect f ... more. |
... Social
John Deere
Diamond
Bayer CropScience
Monsanto
Platinum
Dow AgroSciences
Syngenta
The Fertilizer Institute
Click hereto see a complete list of 2017 Tour sponsors.
Why attend the Tour?
This is one of the most well-organized multi-stop tours I've ever been on - I'm hoping to take some of your great ideas and implement them.
~Anonymous, 2016 Tour Participant
I loved every second of the tour. Networking and meeting new people, experiencing the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA), learning new facts and being inspired by the passion of the EAA researchers and growers all contributed to making the tour an incredible experience. I am so glad I was able to attend. I am already planning for next year!
... more. |
CTIC champions, promotes and provides information on technologies and sustainable agricultural systems that conserve and enhance soil, water, air and wildlife resources and are productive and profitable.
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CTIC and its partners lead initiatives at the local, regional and national level to address agriculture’s pressing conservation needs. Each initiative includes public and private sector partners, shares information about new technology and tools and promotes agricultural systems that are both economically viable and environmentally beneficial.
|
Oat, rye, and an oat-rye mixture were overseeded into soybean in August to determine the shoot dry matter and residue cover produced by these cover crops and their effect on subsequent soybean and corn yield.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Oat and ... more. |
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Silage has the advantage of reducing weather risks and its adverse effects on the nutritional value of forage (Albrecht and Beauchemin, 2003).
Spring Yield and Silage Characteristics of Kura Clover, Winter Wheat, and in Mixtures
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Josh Lloyd tries to do "what Mother Nature does" on his farm near Clay Center, Kansas. That means a no-till system combined with the planting of a polyculture of cover crops -- turnips, radishes and canola -- in rotation with his sorghum and wheat acres.
Caldwell, Jeff. 2009. The great crop rotation cover-up. Agriculture Online.
Using Cover_crops SAG 08 09
This is a literature review of cover crop benefits from Dabney et al. 2001 and Dabney 1996.
Oilseed_Radish
Oilseed radish is a unique cover crop that farmers are planting to improve their soil qual ... more. |
CTIC champions, promotes and provides information on technologies and sustainable agricultural systems that conserve and enhance soil, water, air and wildlife resources and are productive and profitable.
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Establishing trees in areas adapted to woodlands.
How it works
A variety of desired tree species, either seedlings or seeds, are planted mechanically or by hand in understocked woodlands or open fields. Tree species are matched with soil types and selected to preve ... more. |
Sampling and testing manure to determine nutrient content. This promotes proper nutrient application to fields.
How it works
Taking a representative sample from stored manure and sending it to an approved lab for analysis to determine nutrient content is the first step in a manure management system. This data is used to match application rates to plant nutrient needs and soil test data.
How it hel ... more. |
Earthen, wooden, metal, concrete or other structure built across a drainageway to prevent gully erosion.
How it works
A dam, embankment or other structure built across a grassed waterway or existing gully controls and reduces water flow. The structure drops water from one stabilized grade to another and prevents overfall gullies from advancing up a slope.
How it helps
Grade control structures are often used at the outlet of a grassed waterway to stabilize the waterway outlet, preventing gully erosion.
Grassed, non-eroding waterways made possible with a grade control structure give better water qualit ... more. |
Various planner resources and research, educational programs and materials focus on economically feasible and environmentally-sound manure handling systems that also meet Federal, state, and local air and water quality protection regulations.
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What's Newat CTIC
2022-2023 National Cover Crop Survey Report
Findings in the seventh National Cover Crop Survey from CTIC, USDA-NIFA's Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program and the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) yielded new perspectives on planting green and challenged commonly held notions linking land ownership to cover crop adoption. In fact, slightly more cover crop users than non-users reported renting all of their farmland (14% of users vs. 10% of non-users), and non-users were just as likely as cover crop users to own 100% of ... more. |
Ryan Heiniger
Executive Director
Ryan Heiniger joined CTIC as the Executive Director in November 2022 and brings nearly 25 years of experience working in the non-profit conservation sector along with a ‘tractor seat’ perspective as a 4th generation Iowa farmer. As Executive Director, Ryan oversees and leads the team as they carry out project deliverables
He also builds and maintains partnerships to continue CTIC's legacy as a conservation leader. Ryan also serves on the board of di ... more. |
Phosphorus Load-Reduction Stimulus Program:
PLUS-UP
Background
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) is leading a new effort to pilot a phosphorus load reduction market in the Western Lake Erie Basin (Maumee, Sandusky, and Cedar-Portage watersheds, see map). Growers within the indicated watersheds are now being sought to participate in this pilot market. The “Phosphorus Load-Reduction Stimulation Program” (PLUS-UP) payments now being offered to growers are intended to help offset their costs for the use of in-field practices—cover crops and no-till—which yield quantifiable reductions in the amount of dissolved reac ... more. |
Explore The Data
Croplands
Remote sensing-derived, CONUS-wide cropland data for mapping tillage, residue cover, winter cover, and soil health practices. Data are currently available for the years 2015 through 2021.
The available data include the level of adoption of cover crops and conservation tillage practices, as well as soil and GHG outcomes based on the use of this practice-adoption data as input to the DNDC mo ... more. |
Hello!
Don't forget to register for CTIC'sone-day discussion about innovative approaches to reducing phosphorus in the Western Lake Erie Basin.
The Conservation Technology Information Center, Heidelberg University and Bayer Carbon Program just concluded a one-year pilot of the PLUS-UP phosphorus credit program. On November 15, we will be reviewing the program—the credits, the modeling, reporting and results—and exploring how we could best scale up the concept.
We are inviting you because we think your insight would help us shape the future of programs like this in the Western Lak ... more. |
Come meet us in St. Louis on September 12 and 13 for our 15th annual CTIC Conservation in Action Tour!
On this year's tour, we will:
Celebrate CTIC's 40th anniversary at a reception on Monday evening, September 12
Get out into the field September 13 at the Henry White Experimental Farm in St. Clair County, Illinois, to see conservation in action, and
Gather on the afternoon of the 13th Donald Danforth ... more. |
... Tim Asplund
Video Length - 58:43
NARS National Workshop-Day 3, Breakout 3- Lakes & Reservoirs. Laureina Guenzel, EPA and Kellie Merrell, Vermont
Description
Facilitated by Kellie Merrell and Laureina Guenzel
Video Length - 59:43
NARS National Workshop-Day 3, Closing Remarks- John Goodin,US EPA Director, Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds
Description
John Goodin closing remarks for the 2022 NARS National Workshop
Video Length - 35:47
Additional resources:
Slides from Richard Mitchell and Liz Smith on target populations and sample frames
Michael Dumelle’s slides on target populations, sample frames and site evaluation
... more. |
This is your chance to get a (virtual) front row seat for the latest OpTIS research updates! Since you last joined us for an OpTIS webinar, we’ve added data for 2019-2020 and even more states.
We’ll be joined by Prof. Roderick Rejesus of NC State as he’ll describe how he used remote sensing data from OpTIS to study the impact of crop insurance programs on cover crop use. The Operational Tillage Information System (OpTIS), a Regrow technology (https://www.regrow.ag), uses satellite data and a sophisticated algorithm to monitor conservation prac ... more. |
Segments 10-17
More insights from Dr. Lenore Vasilas of USDA-NRCS and Gregg Serenbetz of US EPA.
Soil Matrix Color
Description
“Tips on using Munsell Soil Color Charts to accurately identify soil color. Where do you start? Do you move through chroma or hue? It's all here.
Video Length - 3:02
Redoxomorphic Features
Description
Differentiating among redoxomorphic features and their origins.
... more. |
With expectations of continued travel restrictions late into 2021, CTIC is currently planning the Conservation in Action tour, which is likely to include recorded, live remote and in-person elements. We are working closely with the Alliance of Crop, Soil and Environmental Science Societies (ACSESS) to continue linking the tour with the Sustainable Agriculture Conference as we did last year. Meanwhile, we are finding ways to include expanded content and insight from farmers, conservation specialists, policy makers and more.
For the past 14 years, the CTIC ... more. |
April marks the launch of the first data set from the Operational Tillage Information System (OpTIS), which combines satellite sensing technology with sophisticated modeling to map the adoption of conservation practices on the landscape.
The 21st century heir to CTIC's long-time Crop Residue Management (CRM) Survey, OpTIS will provide comprehensive maps of crop residue management practices and cover crops down to the HUC8 scale. Annual maps and data—with the capability of tracking practices longitudinally over time—will be invaluable to researchers analyzing carbon sequestration, soil erosion, w ... more. |
At CTIC, we're always eager to share news about conservation with our thousands of contacts across U.S. agriculture. After all, it's part of our mission to Connect, Inform and Champion.
If you've got data or insight about conservation farming systems that should be shared through our clearinghouse of information, please let us know. We can include it in our new, easy-to-search website or weave it into our other communications programs.
Want ... more. |
For more than 35 years, the Conservation Technology Information Center has brought together people, information, and insight to move agricultural sustainability ahead. We provide the safe space where farmers, regulators, researchers, agribusiness, conservation group staffers and other stakeholders can explore conservation systems that improve soil health, water and air quality, and the producer's bottom line.
In short, we Connect, Inform and Champion.
To do all that, we need your i ... more. |
... the Right Rate of fertilizer to meet crop needs.
Costs of inputs make it important to provide enough N so the crop is never deficient. For greatest efficiency, N should be applied close to the time it will be used by the crop.
This demonstration compares 3 different application times:
Fall Application
Spring Application
Split Application---½ applied in Fall and ½ applied in Spring
A second demonstration compares the full recommended N rate with a reduced rate (85% of recommended rate) using a controlled-release source, ESN®.
ESN® controlled-release technology delivers N to the crop all season long, not just when it's applied, allowing the crop to reach full genetic potential. The unique polymer coating helps prevent against al ... more. |
CTIC's far-reaching Economic, Agronomic and Environmental Benefits of Cover Crops project - commonly called "Let's Do The Math on Cover Crops" - is in the final stage of pulling together data on the impact of cover crops on honey bee habitat. With data from The Ohio State University, CTIC will soon provide insight into cost-effective opportunities to provide pollinator forage on agricultural landscapes.
... more. |
CTIC News
CTIC Board of Directors Winter 2010 Meeting
Feb. 3, 2010 Hilton on the Disney Resort in Orlando, Florida
This meeting is held during the NACD Annual meeting (same location). For more information about the NACD meeting, click here.
Visit the CTIC web site soon for more details about the Board meeting.
Same Web Site – Two Ways to Get There
CTIC recently had the opportunity to purchase CTIC.org as a domain name. The CTIC web site can be reached at www.ctic.org and www.conser ... more. |
Farmers in Washington’s Whatcom County are engaged in a wide range of water quality improvement projects. TMDLs (total maximum daily loads) in local waterways cover fecal coliform, ammonia-nitrogen, biochemical oxygen demand, chlorine and temperature.
The presence of commercial shellfish beds not far from the mouth of the Nooksack River puts added pressure on farmers and shellfish harvesters to work together on water quality improvements.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Aquatic Resource Surveys (NARS) program found that 45% of America’s river and stream miles are impaired by exce ... more. |
Join Us in Celebrating Our 10th Conservation in Action Tour!
Now is the time to sign on as a sponsor of CTIC's 2017 Conservation in Action Tour and position your company as a leader in conservation farming. Contact Chad Watts atwatts@ctic.orgor call 765-494-9555 for sponsorship details.(Click on the chart below to download a sponsorship flyer.)
Tour sponsors receive:
National recognition and exposure;
Interaction with 200 tour participants, including policy makers, government agency representati ... more. |
Oat and rye cover crops have the potential to reduce erosion when following soybean crops in Iowa.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Small grain cover crops and wheel traffic effects on infiltration, runoff, and erosion.
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The Mosaic Company's mission is to help the world grow the food it needs. As the world's largest supplier of phosphate and potash, we consider this mission to be a compelling one that carries vast responsibilities.
From water conservation and energy efficiency to stringent safety programs and community investment, sustainability is embedded in virtually everything we do. We believe that lasting success comes from making smart choices about our stewardship of the environment, how we engage our people, and how we man ... more. |
... needs.
Costs of inputs make it important to provide enough N so the crop is never deficient. For greatest efficiency, N should be applied close to the time it will be used by the crop.
This demonstration compares 3 different application times:
Fall Application
Spring Application
Split Application---½ applied in Fall and ½ applied in Spring
A second demonstration compares the full recommended N rate with a reduced rate (85% of recommended rate) using a controlled-release source, ESN®.
ESN® controlled-release technology delivers N to the crop all season long, not just when it's applied, allowing the crop to reach full genetic potential. The unique polymer co ... more. |
CTIC celebrated 30 years of championing, promoting and providing information on technologies and sustainable agricultural systems at Commodity Classic, March 1-3.
The CTIC booth featured a presentation chronicling the 30-year journey of conservation, CTIC and our members. Many attendees stopped by our booth, learned about our commitment to conservation and took home a piece of CTIC history.
"We were very excited to ... more. |
Member Spotlight
CORPORATE
CTIC recognizes Gold Corporate Member, Syngenta, in our member spotlight. They are a world-leading agribusiness committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative research and technology. The company is a leader in crop protection, and ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market. Sales in 2006 were approximately $8.1 billion. Syngenta employs around 19,500 people in over 90 countries.
INSTITUTIONAL
CropLife America, Gold Institutional Member, ... more. |
Conservation Agriculture Carbon Offset Consultation
This CD contains materials prepared for the Conservation Agriculture Carbon Offset Consultation, presented by CTIC and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations on Oct. 28-30, 2008. Included are: agenda, welcome letter from U.S. Senator Richard Lugar, presentations and full papers by invited experts, speaker biographies and additional materials. The issue statement and action framework developed by Consultation delegates are also included.
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Splash!
An interactive computer game that delivers information on non-point source pollution in a fast-paced and entertaining format. Appealing for audiences of all ages, it teaches fundamental concepts about non-point source pollution prevention measures in a farm, city, and neighborhood setting. Point and click screens that move and have sound help players learn how day-to-day decisions can affect the water quality of lakes and streams.
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CTIC Institutional Member, the American Society of Agronomy (ASA), is a prominent international scientific society headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin. Because of their common interests, ASA, the Crop Science Society of America (CSSA), and the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) share a close working relationship as well as the same headquarters office. Each of the three Societies is autonomous, has its own bylaws, and is governed by its own Board of Directors. Society members are dedicated to the conservation and wise use of natural resources to produce food, feed, and fiber crops while maintaining and improving the ... more. |
CTIC Corporate Member, The Flatwater Group (TFG), specializes in restoration design, water resources, planning, and environmental engineering. TFG was founded and organized on the principles of flexible client services coupled with creative solutions, and we strive to produce a successful product not just for their clients, but with their clients. The quality of TFG's professional services is excellent and their status under management ownership has brought an unequalled level of effort and com ... more. |
CTIC Corporate Member, Cotton Incorporated, funded by U.S. growers of upland cotton and importers of cotton and cotton textile products, is the research and marketing company representing upland cotton. The Program is designed and operated to improve the demand for and profitability of cotton. To learn more about Cotton Incorporated, visit www.cottoninc.com
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Crop Rotation
Crop Rotation is changing the crops grown in a field, from year to year.
How it works
Crops are changed year by year in a planned sequence. Crop rotation is a common practice on sloping soils because of its potential for soil saving. Rotation also reduces fertilizer needs, because alfalfa and other legumes replace some of the nitrogen corn and other grain crops remove.
How it helps
Pesticide costs may be reduced by naturally breaking the cycles of weeds, insects and diseases.
Grass and legumes in a rotation protect water quality by preventing excess nutrients or chemicals from entering water supplies.
Meadow or small grains cut soil erosion dramatically.
Crop rota ... more. |
Earthen embankment similar to a terrace that directs runoff water from a specific area.
How it works
A diversion is much like a terrace, but its purpose is to direct or divert runoff water from an area. A diversion is often built at the base of a slope to divert runoff away from bottom lands. A diversion may also be used to divert runoff flows away from a feedlot, or to collect and direct water to a pond.
How it helps
Reduces soil erosion on lowlands by catching runoff water and preventing it from reaching farmland below.
Vegetation in the diversion channel filters runoff water, improving water quality.
Vegetation provides cover for small birds and animals.
Allows bett ... more. |
This is an Extension system website featuring resources and answers to inquiries from livestock waste experts. Includes timely topics and newsletters, and a calendar of conferences and educational events.
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Design of manure storage and treatment facilities requires an understanding of the operation involved in food animal production and engineering design principles. It also requires access to manure production data, as well as reporting and presentation software to put it all together. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service created the Animal Waste Management computer program to bring all of these features together.
... more. |
A close-growing crop that temporarily protects the soil when crop residues are not adequate.
How it works
Crops including cereal rye, oats, clover, hairy vetch, and winter wheat are planted to temporarily protect the ground from wind and water erosion during times when cropland isn't adequately protected against soil erosion.
How it helps
Cover crops keep ground covered, add organic matter to the soil, trap nutrients, improve soil tilth and reduce weed competition.
Planning ahead
Do you have a seeding method that won't harm standing c ... more. |
What do farms, water quality and the Great Lakes have in common? They all are helped by cover crops. Through the Great Lakes Cover Crop Initiative, CTIC and partners planted 36,970 acres of cover crops, providing many benefits to farmers in the Great Lakes region. Hear from three farmers in the Great Lakes basin, a researcher on Lake Erie and a Michigan State University Extension educator as they present "The Cover Crop Sto ... more. |
We designed this study to demonstrate the differences in nitrogen rates and yields with different urea application times.
Spring timing gave the best return to nitrogen dollars spent. Fall had the worst return and lowest yield. 2011 weather patterns favored spring application. Conditions resulted in especially high potential nitrogen losses during the winter and early spring.
Take Home Lessons:
Spring nitrogen application resulted in the highest yields.
Spr ... more. |
CONNECT
CTIC brings people together. We build coalitions. We connect farmers, researchers, policymakers, agribusiness, and lead discussions that move conversations ahead.
INFORM
CTIC is a clearinghouse for convservation information, from Operational Tillage Information System (OpTIS) regional trend data to how to implement practices on your farm.
CHAMPION
CTIC helps farmers, advisers, and ag retailers tap conservation resources. We promote conservation practices and ... more. |
With the departure of chad Watts, former CTIC board member Dave Gustafson has spent the past few months supporting the organization as interim executive director. Helping guide the day-to-day operations of the office as well as the strategic direction of the organization, Dave and the board have provided steady leadership as CTIC positions itself for even greater impact.
With a PhD in chemical engineering and three decades of experience as an environmental scientist in the crop protection industry - including tenure at Monsanto, which he represented on CTIC's board - Dave has also served on variousgovernmental and civil society efforts fo ... more. |
Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program and CTIC conducted the first cover crop user survey. More than 750 farmers from across the U.S. completed the survey, representing hundreds of thousands of acres of cover crops and drawing on cover cropping experience that goes back as far as 1948. The 2012 crop year was a challenging one in which to study yield impacts – much of the U.S. was impacted by drought, wh ... more. |
CTIC recently began a new phase of a project funded by Iowa’s Department of Ag and Land Stewardship. In collaboration with Practical Farmers of Iowa and The Nature Conservancy, CTIC is leading development of a program that will train and incentivize retail agronomists to become advocates for conservation systems build around cover cropping. Rollout of the program is anticipated in the winter of 2019 and the project’s target area has been selected to leverage o ... more. |
Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program and CTIC conducted the first cover crop user survey. More than 750 farmers from across the U.S. completed the survey, representing hundreds of thousands of acres of cover crops and drawing on cover cropping experience that goes back as far as 1948. The 2012 crop year was a challenging one in which to study yield impacts – much of the U.S. was impacted by drought, wh ... more. |
Who We Are
CTIC connects people from across agriculture and the conservation community to encourage greater adoption of farming systems that are economically and environmentally sustainable. We link farms, universities, government and business in projects that explore and champion conservation agriculture.
LEARN MORE
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2010 NLA Workshop
November 1-2, 2010
Oklahoma City, OK
Draft Agenda
November 1, 2010
1:00 - 1:30 pm
2012 NLA overview,Amina Pollard, EPA
Each indicator group will have two hours to present their analysis of potential indicators for the 2012 lakes survey and discuss their thoughts with the steering committee.
1:30 - 3:30 pm
Water Quality Indicators
3:30 - 5:30 pm
Physical Habitat Indicators
November 2, 2010
9:00 - 11:00 am
Biological Indicators
11:00 - 12:30 pm
Lunch (on own)
12:30 - 2:30 pm
Recreational Indicators
2:30 - 4:00 pm
... more. |
Cincinnati, Ohio
This training was co-located with the National Water Quality Monitoring Council’s (NWQMC) Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio, April 28-May 2.
The R training was a one day, interactive session held on May 1 or May 2, 2014 and focused on the analysis of NARS data using the R computing language.
Topics included:
Data preparation: building a state-level dataset.
How to compute population estimates of the ecological condition of aquatic systems at the state or regional scale.
Extent estimate and estimating relative and attributable risks.
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Safeguarding the environment is nothing new to John Deere - being green is in our blood. We know that responsible resource management is vital to our company, our employees, our customers, our neighbors and our world. John Deere works tirelessly to develop and offer products that are sound and sensible, efficient and effective. |
Syngenta's ambition is to bring greater food security in an environmentally sustainable way to an increasingly populous world by creating a worldwide step-change in farm productivity. Through deploying world-class science, we aim to transform the way crops are grown and look beyond yield.
Conservation is a key part of that step-change. Syngenta is a long-time supporter of CTIC and the Center's efforts to study and advocate conservation farming in the Mississippi River Basin, across the U.S. and worldwide. |
Agri Drain is a leader in agricultural drainage management systems. Our industry provides practice and product based solutions across our great nation. We can help offset the impact of weather, improve water quality and availability, reduce flooding, create wildlife habitat, and keep our farmers productive and profitable. |
The Soil and Water Conservation Society will hold their 67th annual conference in Fort Worth, Texas from July 22-25, 2012. This year's conference theme is "Choosing Conservation: Considering Ecology, Economics and Ethics" and will feature presentations, workshops, symposia, and technical tours to facilitate the sharing of resource conservation knowledge. In honor of our 30th anniversary ce ... more. |
The CTIC Board of Directors will meet Jan. 30, 2013, in San Antonio, Texas, for its Winter 2013 meeting. In addition to discussing the 2013 Conservation In Action Tour, the Board will evaluate current projects, track progress on the strategic plan and review the FY2012 audit. CTIC Members will elect new officers and directors as well.
WHEN: Jan. 30, 2013, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
WHERE: Marriott Rivercenter Hotel in San Antonio, Texas
Meeting Room CR 17/18
7 ... more. |
Agricultural conservation systems produce good yields and strong profits while responsibly managing environmental resources. These systems efficiently manage nutrients and pests, control irrigation and drainage water flows, use cover crops, rotate crops to maximize conservation benefits and
minimize equipment wear. See CTIC's conservation systems information sheet HERE.
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AgDay featured CTIC in a story as part of its ongoing "Future of Farming" series. Tyne Morgan, national reporter, visited the CTIC office in early March to interview Karen Scanlon, CTIC executive director. The story aired Wednesday, March 21.
Karen and Upstream Hero Larry Bonnell, interviewed on his farm in Michigan, discussed conservation successes, cover crops and water quality in the broadcast.
The AgDay report also promoted CTIC's Conservation In Action Tour 2012 in the Mississippi Delta this year.
To view the broadcast, click here, or for a written summary click here.
CTIC thanks ... more. |
We designed this study to demonstrate differences in nitrogen rates and yields under the same nitrogen product, where the producer planted corn for two consecutive growing seasons.
We conducted this trial to:
demonstrate strip till application of anhydrous ammonia, a proven conservation practice
demonstrate how the farmer can conduct his own on-farm NUE using field-scale equipment with minimal disruption of his normal fi ... more. |
No-Till Farming Systems
The highly anticipated World Association of Soil and Water Conservation - Special Publication No. 3 - No-Till Farming Systems book has been released in the United States. As co-publisher, CTIC is honored to be the designated U.S. distributor.
"No-till farming systems have been developed and applied around the world over several decades. The technology is dynamic: it develops and changes as we overcome obstacles in soil opening, seed place ... more. |
The Living Landscape
An interactive computer game that takes learners of all ages through various best management and conservation practices to turn a rundown farm and landscape into an environmental showplace! Point and click on various areas of the farm to answer related multiple choice questions. With each correct answer the farm scape changes to show the improvement made (complete with sound effects!). ... more. |
This full-color publication defines a wetland, describes the role of wetlands, wetlands protection, and status and trends associated with wetlands. Developed and published by the US Environmental Protection Agency.
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www.nrel.gov
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is the nation's primary laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development (R&D). NREL's mission and strategy are focused on advancing the U.S. Department of Energy's and our nation's energy goals.
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www.delta-institute.org
For over a decade, Delta has helped individuals, organizations and communities demonstrate that building better economies and reforming our relationship with the environment go hand in hand. Delta creates, funds and implements programs that promote a healthy environment, a strong economy and thriving, vibrant communities.
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CTIC Institutional Member, the National Pork Board, has a mission to provide the scientific support for identifying and addressing issues affecting the health, safety and quality of the pork industry’s animals, products or people. Broad areas of responsibility include pork quality, environment, food safety, swine health, animal welfare and producer health and safety. To learn more about the National Pork Board, visit www.pork.org
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CTIC Institutional Member, the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, is a membership base of Iowans who take pride in their accomplishments. From the farm fields to cities, there is a consistent work ethic that improves Iowa each and every day. The Iowa Farm Bureau is proud to support Iowa's progress and their members. And it's this mixture of people, progress and pride that drives the Iowa Farm Bureau in its goal to make their state the best that it can be for everyone. To learn more about the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com.
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CTIC Institutional Member, the International Plant Nutrition Institute (IPNI), is a new not-for-profit organization dedicated to responsible management of plant nutrients - N, P, K, secondary nutrients, and micronutrients - for the benefit of the human family. As world population and demand for food, fuel, feed, and fiber continue to increase, there is also a growing need for knowledge and information based on sound science. That's where IPNI comes in. To learn more about the International Plant Nutrition Institute, visit www.ipni.net
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CTIC Institutional Bronze Member, the National Farmers Union, was founded in 1902 in Point, Texas, to help the family farmer address profitability issues and monopolistic practices. NFU has been working since 1902 to protect and enhance the economic well-being and quality of life for family farmers, ranchers and rural communities through advocating grassroots-driven policy positions adopted by its membership. To learn more about the National Farmers Union, visit www.nfu.org.
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CTIC Institutional Gold Member, The Fertilizer Institute (TFI), is the leading voice in the fertilizer industry, representing the public policy, communication and statistical needs of producers, manufacturers, retailers and transporters of fertilizer. Issues of interest to TFI members include security, international trade, energy, transportation, the environment, worker health and safety, farm bill and conservation programs to promote the use of enhanced efficiency fertilizer. To learn more about The Fertilizer Institute, visit www.tfi.org
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CTIC Institutional Gold Member, Environmental Resources Coalition (ERC), believes that it's possible for government, private industry, and citizen stakeholder groups to work together. They understand that when it comes to water protection efforts, one size does not fit all. Successful groups will use sound science, common sense and have an appreciation for the cause and effect relationships between economics, the environment and politics. To learn more about Environmental Resources Coalition, visit www.erc-env.org/ ... more. |
CTIC Corporate Member, Agrium Inc., is a major retail supplier of agricultural products and services in North and South America, a leading global wholesale producer and marketer of all three major agricultural nutrients and the premier supplier of specialty fertilizers in North America through their Advanced Technologies business unit. To learn more about Agrium, visit www.agrium.com.
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CTIC Corporate Member, DC Legislative & Regulatory Services, Inc. (DCLRS), is a Washington, D.C.-based government relations firm specializing in energy, environment, appropriations, small business and corporate issues. Established in 1991, the firm's staff members bring several decades of combined legislative and regulatory experience to address clients' needs. DCLRS is unique among consulting firms because they advocate before both the executive and legislative branches. Hence, they have broad-based, bi-partisan relationships with members of Congress and their staff members as well as ... more. |
CTIC Gold Corporate Member, Mosaic, is the world's leading producer and marketer of comcentrated phosphate and potash, two of the primary nutrients required to grow the food the world needs. Their business engages in every phase of crop nutrition development, from the mining of resources to the production of crop nutrients, feed and industrial products for customers around the globe. Their customer base includes wholesalers, retail dealers, and individual ... more. |
The early discount deadline has been extended to July 14! Join CTIC for its annual Conservation In Action Tour 2011. This year’s Tour will focus on agriculture’s influence on the environmental and economic health of Maumee River and Bay, as well as Lake Erie.
WHEN: August 9, 2011
WHERE: Northwest Ohio
WHAT: The Tour will highlight producers implementing innovative conservation practices and solutions to water quality issues.
"Early Bird" registration for the Conservation In Action Tour 2011 is now open!
Clic ... more. |
CTIC's Upstream Heroes campaignfeatures success stories about farmers who have developed and adopted sound nutrient efficiency strategies - protecting their bottom lines as well as local and downstream water quality.
Positive stories can highlight agriculture's role in contributing to water quality solutions, such as thoseassociated with high nutrient loads in the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico hypoxic zone.
National agriculture and general media sources ... more. |
The No-Till 2011 Conference is a program of innovative speakers providing for maximum interaction between agriculture professionals ranging from producers to industry experts. No-Till 2011 is a conference designed to bring the latest developments in no-till cropping systems to interested farmers and ranchers from Oklahoma and surrounding states.
For more details, view the conference brochure.
Below is an outline of topics to be covered at this year's No-Till Conference:
Soil Fertility
Cover Crops
No-Till Cotton Production
Intensifying the Rotation with Double-Crops
On-Farm Research Session
Weed Management
Corn and ... more. |
CTIC is working with partners in the GLCCI program to offer six workshops to provide information to producers about the benefits of cover crops and how to use them. Each workshops will take place from 8:45am to 3:30pm, with registration beginning at 8:00am. Click here to view a general agenda. The speakers and topics vary from workshop to workshop, but are all very similar programs. Specifics for each workshop and links for online registration can be found below. Online registration is $20 or $30 at the door. The registration feel will cover ... more. |
Conference Presentations from Feb. 18, 2010
Phosphorus Management
- Dr. Albert Sims, University of Minnesota
Agriculture and the Gulf of Mexico Hypoxia Issue
- Dr. C.S. Snyder, International Plant Nutrition Institute
On-Farm Evaluation of Nitrogen and Phosphorous Nutrient Management
- Brian Williams, Minnesota Department of Ag
Where the City Meets the Farm: a Case Study of Drainage and Water Quality
- Dr. John F. Moncrief, University of Minnesota
Nitrogen Management to Minimize Nitrate ... more. |
Upcoming Events
July
Soil and Water Conservation Society Annual Conference
July 18-21,2010, St. Louis, Mo.
Fellows Forum, Sunday, July 18th, 2010:“Gulf Hypoxia – A Midwest Perspective”
The 32nd Southern Conservation Agriculture Systems Conference: Conservation Agriculture Impacts--Local and Global
July 20-22, 2010,Jackson and Milan, Tenn. ... more. |
Providing community leaders with the tools to research and adopt a viable solution for the treatment of wastewater within their community.
October 22 - Mankato, Minnesota
CTIC hosted a one day workshop on October 22, 2009 to help small communities learn how to solve their wastewater problems that they are facing.
The workshop which was co sponsored by the University of Minnesota Extension, and the Environment ... more. |
The Conservation In Action Tour 2008, July 17, 2008, was held in central Indiana, making five stops at locations leading agriculture in their conservaiton efforts.
Date and Location Set for 2009 Conservation in Action Tour
By Rachel Doctor
The 2008 Conservation in Action Tour was a great success. Nearly 100 members and partners attended to see the latest conservation practices of five farms in central Indiana. The photos below show highlights of the tour.
We hope you will join us again in 2009. Mark ... more. |
No Tillage: The relationship between no tillage, crop residues, plants and soil nutrition
In his second book on no-till farming, Chilean farmer Carlos Crovetto has delved into the inner workings of the soil and meticulously explained the relationship between no-till, crop residues, soil nutrition and crop production.
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A partnership of organizations including Conservation Technology Information Center, the Indiana Soybean Alliance, and The Fertilizer Institute measured adoption of conservation practices on Indiana farms.The survey revealed reasons farm operators and landownersdo not adopt conservation practices. Building onthe success of the recentnational Best Management Practices (BMPs) Survey, thissurvey recorded the conservation efforts of Indiana farmers and identified how to assist farm ... more. |
Georgia Conservation Tillage Alliance
The mission of the Georgia Conservation Tillage Alliance is to promote the adoption of conservation tillage and other economically viable and environmentally sound agricultural and natural resource management practices through research, education, and communication.
Contact Information
www.gcta-ga.org
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Agricultural biotechnology delivers more than just streamlined pest management options or the promise of healthier, higher quality crops. Biotech-derived crops allow growers to adopt sustainable farming practices ranging from conservation tillage to integrated pest management. Those practices protect soil, water and air quality and allow producers to sustain our natural resources as well as our lives and lifestyles.
The Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), with funding from the United Soybean Board, has produced Facilitating Conservation Farming Practices and Enhancing Environmental Sustainability with Agricultural Biotechnology, a thorough exploration of the environmental benefits of biot ... more. |
CTIC Member Since 2001
Initially, No-Till on the Plains, Inc., joined CTIC for the information exchange, networking and notification of pertinent meetings. I believe these have been great benefits of our membership. In addition, I enjoy and utilize the articles and research and technology information found in CTIC’s online magazine, Partners.
The benefits far exceed the cost of membership in CTIC. What a beneficial organization to those of us who really need you!
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Per the PLUS-UP Agreement between each participating Farmer and the Conservation Technology Information Center, there are terms governing the payments that will be made to the Farmer by CTIC, based on the Farmer’s enrollment of Fields into the Phosphorous Load Reduction Stimulus Program (“PLUS-UP”).
CTIC agreed to pay Farmer $100 per pound of load reductions of dissolved reactive phosphorous based on computer modeling performed ... more. |
Cover crops offer a wide range of benefits to farmers, from erosion control to soil building to capturing nutrients and holding them in the root zone over the winter. As interest in cover crops continues to grow, it’s important to understand the trends, opportunities and challenges surrounding these important tools. Insight from farmers who use cover crops—or from those who haven’t yet made the move—is vital for fellow farmers, as well as for crop advisors, conservation specialists and poli ... more. |
CTIC would like your feedback on this page. Take Survey
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2020 National Recreational Water Quality Workshop
This 3.5 day workshop open to the public will focus on two common challenges in recreational waters. April 21-24, 2020
Read More
The Conservation Technology Information Center
The Conservation Technology Information Center promotes, supports and provides information on conservation technologies & sustainable agricultural systems.
Read More
Latest Project from CTIC
Data are available free from the Operational Tillage Information System—OpTIS—which analyzes remote sensing data to monitor conservation practices in agricultural systems.
Access Data
Become a Member
By becoming a member of ... more. |
JUST TWO WEEKS LEFT TO REGISTER FOR CTIC CONSERVATION IN ACTION TOUR!
Seats are filling up fast for the 12th annual Conservation in Action Tour hosted by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC), which will explore conservation farming systems on farms and an innovative ag retail location in central Iowa August 20 and 21. Registration will close July 26.
"The CTIC Conservation in Action Tour provides a detailed look at conservation practices along with great opportunities to discuss those systems with the farmers, ag retailers and conservation professionals who work with them every day," notes Mike Komp, executive director of ... more. |
Online registration for the tour is quick and easy at https://www.ctic.org/cia_tour/registration. The $175 registration fee includes transportation, stops and all meals. A limited number of rooms are available at the Embassy Suites Downtown in Des Moines at the special rate of $129 per night for August 20 and 21.
For more information on the Conservation in Action Tour, visit CTIC's website or call CTIC at (765) 494-9555.
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SORRY! I pushed the wrong button on our new website software and sent you some old news about last year's Conservation in Action Tour. (I'm still learning our way around the powerful new tools.)
Please disregard our last email and watch for some exciting CTIC news in the days and weeks to come!
Steve @ CTIC
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Download and view the Membership Level and Pricing Flyer
Download
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The global population is estimated to exceed 9 billion people by 2050, placing unprecedented pressure on American farmers to grow even more of the crops that clothe, fuel and feed the world. One way to help alleviate this pressure is to significantly improvesoil healthon cropland.
By adopting practices like planting winter cover crops and reducing—or better yet eliminating—tillage practices, farmers can significantly improve productivity of their fields, reduce soil erosion, improve water quality and increase carbon storage. In f ... more. |
SUPERU®, a urea based product, contains urease and denitrification inhibitors within the fertilizer granule.
Koch Agronomic Services created SUPERU® to increase crops’ nitrogen uptake and efficiency.
We designed this trial to determine the Most Economical Rate of Nitrogen (MERN) and to compare spring, surface applied urea verses spring applied SUPERU®.
SUPERU® showed the highest agronomic efficiency of all the products ... more. |
SUPERU®, a urea based product, contains urease and denitrification inhibitors within the fertilizer granule.
Koch Agronomic Services created SUPERU® to increase crops’ nitrogen uptake and efficiency.
We designed this trial to determine the Most Economical Rate of Nitrogen (MERN) and to compare spring, surface applied urea verses spring applied SUPERU®.
SUPERU® showed the highest agronomic efficiency of all the products ... more. |
In 2010, EPA granted funds to CTIC for five years to plan and facilitate aquatic resource monitoring training workshops for states, tribes and other stakeholders. Since then, CTIC has been awarded a grant to conduct these workshops until 2020. CTIC will continue to enhance collaboration, communication, coordination and technology transfer among the more than 800 professionals attending the workshops.
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Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation want to learn more about producer cropping decisions. We invite producers to spend a few minutes answering two short surveys about their agricultural operations. Participants could win one of several prizes, including two $100 gift cards. You can double your chances of winning by completing both surveys.
Please click here to take Cropping Decisi ... more. |
Are you an experienced leader and manager who can step into a vibrant organization with a dedicated staff and diverse lineup of projects and programs? Applications due by March 9. More...
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Managing Cover Crops Profitablyexplores how and why cover crops work and provides all the information needed to build cover crops into any farming operation.
Managing Cover Crops Profitably, 3rd Edition
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Penn State University, University of Maryland, and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service have all been testing various soil parameters on the Cedar Meadow Farm.
Groff, Steve. 2008. Mixtures and cocktails: Soil is meant to be covered. J. Soil Water Conserv. 63(4):110A-111A.
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Cover crops can provide a multitude of environmental benefits, including reducing soil erosion, minimizing nitrogen leaching, and increasing soil carbon storage (Delgado et al. 2007; Singer et al. 2007; Hargrove 1991).
Anderson-Wilk, M. 2008. The gap between cover crop knowledge and practice. J. Soil Water Conserv. 63(4):96A.
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Cover crops with limited irrigation can increase yields, crop quality, and nutrient and water use efficiencies while protecting the environment.
Delgado, J.A., M. A. Dillon, R. T. Sparks, and S. Y.C. Essah. 2007. A decade of advances in cover crops. J. Soil Water Conserv. 62(5):110A-117A.
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Cover cropping impacts soil properties in many positive ways. These include higher total carbon, which usually contributes to increased cation exchange capacity and water-holding capacity.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Biological and biochemical soil properties in no-till corn with different cover crops.
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Maintaining environmental quality implies sustainable agricultural production systems that preserve and prated soil resources.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Cover crop and soil quality interactions in agroecosystems.
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This study evaluated how winter cover crops with various applied nitrogen rates affect net revenue and risk from no-tillage corn production.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Stochastic dominance analysis of winter cover crop and nitrogen fertilizer systems for no-tillage corn.
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Early in the growing season, an adequate level of mineralized soil N is essential in order to obtain optimum corn (Zea mays L.) growth and productivity.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Enhancing soil nitrogen mineralization and corn yield with overseeded cover crops.
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This publication examines the factors that affect glyphosate performance and offers management
strategies to minimize fluctuations in its effectiveness.
The Glyphosate, Weeds, and Crops Series: Understanding Glyphosate To Increase Performance
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The New Leader line of crop nutrient applicators from Highway Equipment Company is an integral part of fertilizer handling - vital for improving water quality and farm sustainability in the Mississippi River Basin. "Right place" is one of the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship, and New Leader equipment is proud of its role in promoting and enabling that key tactic. |
Provides local technical assistance, contact with area producers and guidance for project outreach and growth. |
CTIC is having a party and you're invited! Join us on October 25, 2012 in St. Louis, MO, to help celebrate 30 years of conservation success and look at opportunities for continued growth. The October 25 celebration will be held at the Monsanto facilities in St. Louis will feature tours, panel discussions, an evening banquet and plenty of birthday cake.
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We designed this study to demonstrate the differences in nitrogen rates and yields with different urea application times.
Spring timing gave the best return to nitrogen dollars spent. Fall had the worst return and lowest yield. 2011 weather patterns favored spring application. Conditions resulted in especially high potential nitrogen losses during the winter and early spring. |
SUPERU®, a urea based product, contains urease and denitrification inhibitors within the fertilizer granule.
Koch Agronomic Services created SUPERU® to increase crops’ nitrogen uptake and efficiency.
We designed this trial to determine the Most Economical Rate of Nitrogen (MERN) and to compare spring, surface applied urea verses spring applied SUPERU®.
SUPERU® showed the highest agronomi ... more. |
USDA Natural Resources Credit Trading Reference
Credit trading guide for conservation specialists. Learn the basics of credit trading; the features of an efficient environmental market; how to form efficent and effective markets; how credit trading integrates with federal, state and privately supported conservation programs; and how to make environmental credit markets work effectively in agriculture.
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The goal of IMMAG is to identify and share manure management information and educational programs, which can be used by producers, technical agencies, educational institutions, researchers, and the general public.
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A Review of BMPs for Managing Crop Nutrients and Conservation Tillage to Improve Water Quality
This publication will review research on nutrient management BMPs for the two nutrients of major concern, Nitrogen and Phosphorus, with an emphasis on integrating BMPs with conservation tillage.
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Conservation Tillage and Plant Biotechnology: How New Technologies Can Improve the Environment By Reducing the Need to Plow
Introduces and outlines environmental benefits of conservation tillage, while highlighting trends that like biotechnology with conservation tillage.
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CTIC's new publication, Facilitating Conservation Farming Practices and Enhancing Environmental Sustainability with Agricultural Biotechnology.
This publication explores the breadth of the environmental benefits of conservation tillage practices, which are facilitated significantly by biotechnology crops. Access the full document or executive summary to learn about the dramatic improvements in environmental sustainability and productivity over the past several ... more. |
The Confined Animal Manure Manager (CAMM) program team consists of agents and specialists with Clemson University, the Clemson Extension Service, the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control, and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. The team was assembled in 1998 to comply with State Regulation R.61-43, which states:
100.190.A An operator of a new or existing swine facility, lagoon, manure storage pond, or manure utilization area shall complete a ... more. |
Manure Management Planner (MMP) is a Windows-based computer program developed at Purdue University that is used to create manure management plans for crop and animal feeding operations. The user enters information about the operation's fields, crops, storage, animals, and application equipment. MMP helps the user allocate manure (where, when and how much) on a monthly basis for the length of the plan. Purdue's MMP currently supports 34 states. more
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The Conservation Technology Information Center, through its partnership with The Fertilizer Institute (TFI), the national trade association representing the U.S. fertilizer industry, has joined a national effort to promote 4R nutrient stewardship.
In March, TFI launched a new website, www.nutrientstewardship.com, to showcase supportive resources and educational tools for the 4R nut
rient stewardship concept which promotes the use of the right fertilizer source, at the right rate, right time and in the right place. CTIC has joined the Institute’s effort by becoming what is known as a 4R supporter.Learn more about the 4Rs and CTIC’s involvement with the initiative by visiting www.nutrientstewardship.com.
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CTIC Institutional Member, the Oregon Ryegrass Growers Seed Commision, was formed by growers in 1965 for the purpose of promoting Oregon-grown Ryegrass seed use and developing new domestic and international markets. It also contributes funds for continuing production and market research of Ryegrass. The Commission is a non-profit organization which neither sells seed nor quotes prices. To learn more about the Oregon Ryegrass Growers Seed Commision, visit www.ryegrass.com
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CTIC Institutional Member, the Illinois Soybean Association, is the statewide organization for Illinois soybean farmers. The farmers on its board administer soybean checkoff funds to support research, promotion, and educational programs designed to increase demand for Illinois soybeans and administer legislative and membership programs. To learn more about the Illinois Soybean Association, visit www.ilsoy.org/
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CTIC Institutional Member, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), is a trade association that provides services on a global basis for companies that manufacture equipment, products and services used worldwide in the following industries: Agriculture, Construction, Forestry, Mining, and Utility. AEM's membership is made up of more than 750 companies and represents 200+ product lines. To learn more about the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, visit www.aem.org.
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CTIC Corporate Member, Calmer Corn Heads, is one of the world's largest manufacturers of 15 and 20-inch row corn heads. In 1994, Calmer's Ag Research Center determined that there was a significant yield advantage to growing corn in 15-inch rows instead of 30-inch rows. They have done extensive testing with Case IH and Deere & Company on these new concepts. Today, Calmer Corn Heads are noted for low trash intake, lighter in weight, lower horsepower requirements, and ... more. |
www.agrotain.com
AGROTAIN International is a subsidiary of Lange-Stegmann, a leading supplier of agricultural and turf care products. Formed in July 2000, they manufacture, market and distribute proprietary nitrogen sources utilizing AGROTAIN technology and a nitrification inhibitor to stabilize urea nitrogen, the most widely used nitrogen fertilizer products in the world.
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The Confined Animal Manure Manager (CAMM) program team consists of agents and specialists with Clemson University, the Clemson Extension Service, the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control, and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. The team was assembled in 1998 to comply with State Regulation R.61-43, which states:
100.190.A An operator of a new or existing swine facility, lagoon, manure storage pond, or manure utilization area shall complete a ... more. |
Establishing a variety of plants that furnish food for wildlife.
How it works
Food plots may be established either within an existing crop field or in a separate location. You may simply leave four rows of corn or other crops standing after harvest to provide food for wildlife over the winter. Or you may plant a small plot elsewhere. These plots help wildlife through the winter when food supplies are in short supply.
How it helps
Standing crops with unharvested grain give food to wildlife that may
otherwise not be accessible after heavy snows or ice.
A food plot helps maintain wildlife on your farm by providing ... more. |
Components of a Plan
Know your pests
Today, we are armed with improved controls of weeds, insects and diseases. The arsenal of management strategies available allows for better control with less environmental risk.
Know your action thresholds
Just the presence of weeds or pests doesn’t justify the application of a control measure. The weed and pest pressure must be a threat to reduce yields or quality enough to make sense. This level of pressure to justify a control measure is calle ... more. |
No Tillage: The relationship between no tillage, crop residues, plants and soil nutrition
Expands the breadth and depth of knowledge of the no-till system offers new ideas to those who are ready to move into the next level of conservation tillage systems. To order online, click here.
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Innovative Cropping Systems Incentive Program (ICS)
Established 1996
ICS is a cooperative program that strives to furnish incentives that advance cropping management systems that offer efficiencies in crop production and enhance pollution reduction performance. ICS adoption incentives include outreach, technical transfer, education, demonstration, research, cooperation, development, partnerships and financial assistance.
Mission, Goals and Contact Information
http://colonialswcd.vaswcd.org
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Subscribe to the CTIC Newsletter and receive the latest news on conservation agriculture!
Here's our latest newsletter:
December 2024
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Subscribe to the CTIC Newsletter and receive the latest news on conservation agriculture!
Here's our latest newsletter:
December 2024
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Hotel:
Holiday Inn City Centre
100 W. 8th St.
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
We have a room block at the Holiday Inn City Centre with favorable room prices for you. The Holiday Inn is in downtown Sioux Falls and is the basis for our optional workshops and Tour. The banquet is just a short walk away from the hotel.
Hotel Amenities:
Click herefor more information about the hotel.
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Four Sponsorship Levels Available
Ruby, Diamond, Platinum and Gold
Sponsor today! To learn more about sponsoring our 2022conservation in action tour please email Ryan Heiniger at heiniger@ctic.org
*Please note: Sponsors must submit all materials (logo, notebook ads, handouts, etc.) to north@ctic.org
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Registration
Registration is officially closed.
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... for this second opportunity to serve as Interim ED. I also thank the dedicated staff of CTIC for their help as we’ve successfully navigated these past few months, especially for their help in hosting yet another #BestTourEver in St. Louis, this time combined with the 40th anniversary celebration. With Ryan’s arrival, we’re very excited about the many opportunities for growth and impact of CTIC, not only with our traditional funding partners at EPA and NRCS, but now also in the emerging climate smart marketplace with projects like our new CSA Connector™. Our future is so bright we've got to wear shades!
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PLUS-UP Stakeholder Meeting
Join us at the beautiful Maumee Bay State Park for our Plus-Up Stakeholder Meeting on November 15, 2022 from 11-4pm. A working lunch will be provided by CTIC along with refreshments.
Agenda:
*Times and presentations tentative
11:00 Welcome and introductions (Hans Kok, CTIC)
11:20 Background to Phosphorus issues in WLEB (Laura Johnson, Heidelberg)
11:50 Plus-Up program (Hans Kok)
12:10 Modeling and payment for farmer DRP savings (Judy Smith, Heidelberg)
12:30 Working Lunch
1:00 The Yahara River Wins (Kim Meyer,Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District)
2:00 Discussion abo ... more. |
We're always on the lookout for a great conservation story to share with our members, partners and friends. Got a success story? A lesson to share? Contact executive director Mike Komp at komp@ctic.org and let's find ways to shine a spotlight on conservation.
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Insight from 2,020 farmers from across the country found that the planted acreage of cover crops continued its steady rise - reaching an average of 298 acres per farm in 2015 and projected to grow to a mean of 339 acres in 2016. Those figures are more than double the acreage survey participants said they planted in 2011.
After cover crops, corn yields rose an average 3.4 bushels per acre, or 1.9 percent, after cover crops, and soybean yields increased 1.5 bushels per acre, or 2.8 percent. Analysis of the survey data revealed that yield increases rose to 8.3 bushels per ... more. |
Help CTIC pencil out the economic and environmental benefits of cover crops through the "Economic, Agronomic and Environmental Benefits of Cover Crops" project. Below, sign up for our cover crops mailing list or let us know that you are interested in working with us.
For more information on the project, check out our project webpage.
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Welcome to Conservation in Action NEWS, CTIC's e-newsletter. We'll share news about the Conservation Technology Information Center as well as stories on how our members and partners are helping farmers put conservation systems into practice.
Learn more about CTIC at our website...and if you've got a story to share, please contact us!
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View the CDR and HUC8 Tillage and Winter data charts by clickong on the corresponding titles below.
CRD Conservation Tillage
var divElement = document.getElementById('viz1573078379990'); var vizElement = divElement.getElementsByTagName('object')[0]; if ( divElement.offsetWidth > 800 ) { vizElement.style.minWidth='420px';vizElement.sty ... more. |
Komp adds that there is just over a week to reserve a place on the tour, and spaces are filling up quickly.
Online registration takes just moments at https://www.ctic.org/cia_tour/registration. The $175 registration fee includes transportation, stops and all meals.
For more information on the Conservation in Action Tour, visit CTIC's website or call CTIC at (765) 494-9555.
The CTIC Conservation in Action Tour is sponsored in pa ... more. |
Register Online Today
"Now is the time to register—we've got only two more weeks until our cut-off date for seats on the bus and our special Conservation in Action Tour price for hotel rooms at the Embassy Suites Downtown in Des Moines," says Komp.
Online registration takes just moments at https://www.ctic.org/cia_tour/registration. The $175 registration fee includes transportation, stops and all meals.
For more information on the Conservation in Action Tour, visit CTIC's website or call ... more. |
Online registration takes just moments at www.ctic.org/cia_tour/registration. The $175 registration fee includes transportation, stops and all meals. A limited number of rooms are available at the Embassy Suites Downtown in Des Moines at a special Conservation in Action Tour rate of $129 per night for August 20 and 21.
For more information on the Conservation in Action Tour, visit CTIC's website or call CTIC at (765) 494-9555.
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Terry Tindall of J.R. Simplot and CTIC board chair says CTIC's tours have built a nationwide reputation over the years for providing an up-close look at conservation systems in the field, and also for creating opportunities for outstanding networking.
“I am very pleased with how the plans have come together for the CTIC 2019 Conservation in Action Tour," Tindall says. "These tours balance lo ... more. |
... satellite images of the landscape through software developed by Applied GeoSolutions, OpTIS automatically identifies and quantifies various types of tillage and cover crop systems. Although the source data is captured at a resolution of 30 meters and tables are accurate to the acre, OpTIS ensures grower privacy by reporting and mapping at the USDA crop reporting district or HUC 8 watershed scale.
Read more
CTIC Welcomes Mike Komp As Executive Director
Mike Komp has joined CTIC as executive director, bringing his experience in geographic information systems, data analysis, program development skills, and coalition building to the organization.
"Mike brings skills that reflect not only the legacy of CTIC but also the ... more. |
The 2013 tour had record attendance! On July 10, over 270 people from 20 states visited the Indian Creek Watershed in Livingston County, Ill. to learn about soil health, nutrient management and drainage water management. Celebrating the theme of Community 4 Conservation, tour participants heard from speakers with experience in several aspects of conservation, such as building soil health, efficiently managing nutrients and controlling the water that drains from fields.
Tour high points:
... more. |
Corn and Soybean Digest, June 2018
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Indiana Pilot Study
Ten years of tillage-transect data collected by the State of Indiana were used to verify the ability of OpTIS algorithms to automatically process publicly-available remote sensing data, in order to accurately characterize tillage practices and the presence of winter cover crops.
View Resource
Next Step
Building on the success of the Indiana Pilot, CTIC is now again partnering with AGS to apply OpTIS across the entire US Corn Belt (Phase 1). Phase 2 will involve application of OpTIS to all US agricultural regions.
View Resource
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Insight from 2,020 farmers from across the country found that the planted acreage of cover crops continued its steady rise - reaching an average of 298 acres per farm in 2015 and projected to grow to a mean of 339 acres in 2016. Those figures are more than double the acreage survey participants said they planted in 2011.
After cover crops, corn yields rose an average 3.4 bushels per acre, or 1.9 percent, after cover crops, and soybean yields increased 1.5 bushels per acre, or 2.8 percent. Analysis of the survey data revealed that yield increases rose to 8.3 bushels per ... more. |
... Across Latitudes
SSSA International Soils Meeting
January 6-9, 2019 | San Diego, CA |www.sacmeetings.org
·SWCS Meeting
International Annual Meeting
July 29 – August 1, 2018 – Albuquerque, NM
·NACD Meeting
NACD Annual Meeting, January 27-31, 2018 – Nashville, TN
If you have an event coming up, please contact Abbey Nickel and we’ll get it on the CTIC Calendar and in future Member Mails.
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... Annual Meeting
November 4-7 | Baltimore, MD |https://acsmeetings.org/
Soils Across Latitudes
SSSA International Soils Meeting
January 6-9, 2019 | San Diego, CA |https://sacmeetings.org/
·SWCS Meeting
International Annual Meeting
July 29 – August 1, 2018 – Albuquerque, NM
If you have an event coming up, please contact Abbey Nickel and we’ll get it on the CTIC Calendar and in future Member Mails.
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CTIC members play a critical role when it comes to spreading and championing the message of conservation agriculture. Keep growing and learning with us by renewing your CTIC membership!To renew, please email Crystal Hatfield at hatfield@ctic.org or call 765-494-9555.
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... Annual Meeting
November 4-7 | Baltimore, MD |https://acsmeetings.org/
Soils Across Latitudes
SSSA International Soils Meeting
January 6-9, 2019 | San Diego, CA |https://sacmeetings.org/
·SWCS Meeting
International Annual Meeting
July 29 – August 1, 2018 – Albuquerque, NM
If you have an event coming up, please contact Abbey Nickel and we’ll get it on the CTIC Calendar and in future Member Mails.
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... Across Latitudes
SSSA International Soils Meeting
January 6-9, 2019 | San Diego, CA |www.sacmeetings.org
SWCS Meeting
International Annual Meeting
July 29 - August 1, 2018 - Albuquerque, NM
NACD Meeting
NACD Annual Meeting, January 27-31, 2018 - Nashville, TN
If you have an event coming up, please contact Abbey Nickel and we'll get it on the CTIC Calendar and in future Member Mails.
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INFORM
CTIC is the top clearinghouse for information on cover crops, conservation tillage, soil health, water quality, and more.
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Terry and Troy Lenssen of Lenssen Dairy in Lynden, Washington, safeguard water quality in a variety of ways, including:
The Application Risk Management tool from Whatcom Conservation District, which puts their information through an algorithm to determine the risk of a manure application during the wet winter or early spring.
Risk analysis, conducted with their local conservation district.
“ ... more. |
Keep up-to-date on all the latest CTIC news and information by liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter.
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Make a difference! Take our SARE/CTIC Cover Crop Survey and share your thoughts on cover crops. You’ll help guide cover crop research, and be eligible for a $100 gift card drawing!
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The 2013-2014 CTIC and SARE national survey of farmers has documented a yield boost from the use of cover crops in corn and soybeans, as well as a wide variety of other benefits.
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Dan Forgey, farm manager at Cronin Farms in South Dakota, has been using no-till management for more than 17 years. Over that time, Forgey has developed a keen understanding of how his farming system works and where new challenges and opportunities exist.
The Next Step: Adding Cover Crop to a No-Till System (Video)
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<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Partitioning roots for studying cropping systems containing more than one species is important since root growth interaction could influence system performance.
Root Segregation of C3 and C4 Species using Carbon Isotope Composition.
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Phosphorus (P) runoff from agricultural soils is a concern due to eutrophication.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Effect of cover crops established at time of corn planting on phosphorus runoff from soils before and after dairy manure application.
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In different studies conducted during the last 10 years, underground well water NO3−-N concentrations have been found to exceed drinking water standards of 10 mg NO3−-N L−1 (10 ppm) for some areas of the San Luis Valley of south central Colorado.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Sequential NLEAP simulations to examine effect of early and late planted winter cover crops ... more. |
CTIC partner Illinois Soybean Association publishes occasional e-news about a wide range of farm sustainability topics. The updates cover successes and challenges farmers face serving society, protecting the environment and supporting the economy. Please click here to subscribe.
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Click here to see a 20-minute video produced by Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan State Extension highlighting legal, environmental, planning, and prevention issues of manure spills. Also available in Spanish.
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Click here to see a 20-minute video produced by Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan State Extension highlighting legal, environmental, planning, and prevention issues of manure spills. Also available in Spanish.
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Click here to see a 20-minute video produced by Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan State Extension highlighting legal, environmental, planning, and prevention issues of manure spills. Also available in Spanish.
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Join CTIC and GYPSOIL for a major symposium on soil quality presented by research scientists, producers and crop consultants. The event will be held at Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio, on March 7, 2013.
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Monsanto works with farmers from around the world to make agriculture more productive and sustainable. We've strengthened our goal of doubling crop yields by committing to doing it with one-third fewer resources such as land, water and energy per unit produced. We're working with our partners to develop conservation systems that are better for the plant. |
The Illinois Corn Marketing Board is deeply committed to improving nutrient efficiency through the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship - right source, right rate, right time, right place - and through participation in Keep It For The Crop By 2025, a collaborative program to promote, implement and track the rate of adoption of enhanced nutrient stewardship practices by Illinois agricultural producers. |
Wetlands: A More Profitable Alternative?
CTIC tells the story of 10 operations around the country
that have restored wetlands on their agricultural property...
and have reaped environmental and economic benefits.
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The purpose of this Air Management Practices Assessment Tool is to guide you through a process of determining which mitigation practices are best suited to your operation and your objectives. The website is organized into four air emissions of interest: dust (particulates), odor, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide. Within each gas or emittent, sources of emission are categorized by housing, manure storage, or land application.
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The purpose of this Ohio Livestock Manure Management Guide is to help farmers utilize manure as a resource while at the same time protecting our shared environment. A guiding principal for the writers of this edition of Bulletin 604 was to address the needs of both large and small livestock producers. This updated edition contains new and expanded sections.
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CTIC Institutional Member, The Nature Conservancy, is a leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people. To learn more about The Nature Conservancy, visit www.nature.org
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CTIC Institutional Member, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), is the largest trade organization in the United States representing corn growers. Since its inception the NCGA has successfully represented corn growers, throughout the entire corn industry, the U.S. government, and consumers and throughout the world. To learn more about the National Corn Growers Association, visit www.ncga.com.
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CTIC Institutional Member, Indiana Corn, creates value for Indiana farmers through research, promotion, market development, and education. First established in 2001, the Indiana Corn Marketing Council (ICMC) is made up of 17 farmer-directors and is charged with overseeing the investment of state corn checkoff funds. To learn more about the Indiana Corn Marketing Council, visit www.incorn.org
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CTIC Institutional Member, the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), is a leading national nonprofit organization representing more than 700,000 members. Since 1967, EDF has linked science, economics and law to creat innovative, equitable and cost-effective solutions to society's most urgent environmental problems. EDF is dedicated to protecting the environmental rights of all people, including future generations. To learn more about the Environmental Defense Fund, visit www.edf.org/home.cfm
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CTIC Institutional Bronze Member, Agricultural Retailers Association, serves as the ag retail and distribution industry's voice. The Agricultural Retailers Association advocates before Congress and the Executive Branch to ensure a profitable business environment for members. To learn more about the Agricultural Retailers Association, visit www.aradc.org
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CTIC Institutional Gold Member, CropLife America, is the national trade organization representing the nation's developers, manufacturers, formulators and distributors of plant science solutions for agriculture and pest management in the U.S. To find out more about CropLife America, visit www.croplifeamerica.org
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CTIC Bronze Corporate Member, Bayer CropScience, has a vision to be a leading partner in providing innovative products and combined solutions for the production of quality food, feed and fiber to meet the global challenges of tomorrow. To learn more about Bayer CropScience, visit www.bayercropscience.com.
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CTIC Gold Corporate Member, Syngenta, is a world-leading agribusiness committed to sustainable agriculture through innovative research and technology. The company is a leader in crop protection, and ranks third in the high-value commercial seeds market. Sales in 2006 were approximately $8.1 billion. Syngenta employs around 19,500 people in over 90 countries. To learn more about Syngenta, visit www.syngenta.com
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The Winter 2011 CTIC Board of Directors meeting will take place Feb. 2, 2011, at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel and Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn.
During this meeting, CTIC will elect Directors and Officers to the CTIC Board of Directors. All paid CTIC members are encouraged to vote, however, you must be present at the meeting to cast your ballot.
CTIC’s Winter meeting is held in conjunction with the NACD Annual Meeting, which will be held Jan. 30 – Feb. 2 at Opryland. F ... more. |
Cover Crops and Conservation Tillage Reduce NPS Pollution
Project Description
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By facilitating the switch to conservation tillage, biotech crops have helped dramatically reduce soil erosion and water pollution, increase carbon sequestration, and lower the use of crop protection chemicals by millions of pounds per year.
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Many low-cost manure management publications are available from the MidWest Plan Service, a university-based publishing cooperative dedicated to publishing and disseminating research-based, peer-reviewed, practical, and affordable publications that support the outreach missions of the 12 North Central Region land grant universities plus the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
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A 20-minute video produced by Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan State Extension highlighting legal, environmental, planning, and prevention issues of manure spills. Also available in Spanish.
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The Wisconsin Soil Nutrient Application Program (SNAP-Plus) is a Windows-based software package for developing N and P based nutrient management plans that meet the Wisconsin 590 Nutrient Management Standard. In addition to creating a nutrient management plan, SNAP-Plus integrates the Wisconsin P Index and uses RUSLE2 to access soil loss based on the rotation entered.
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Conservation Tillage Systems and Management Handbook
The 29 chapters not only cover a broad range of topics, but the authors represent all regions of the United States. The right book for those with a basic understanding of conservation tillage who want to expand their technical knowledge.
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One of our goals at CTIC is to serve as an information clearinghouse -- reviewing and communicating new research, technologies and innovative approaches.
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Provide Information
Find conservation resources including websites, documents, research results, and our current projects. CTIC members can access our list of experts. Join Today (link to Become a Member)
* Topics A-Z
* CTIC Initiatives (link to Lead Initiatives)
* Guides and Research Documents (link to Online Store/Free Publications)
* Experts (Members Only)
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We live our values by making sustainability goals part of everything we do throughout the soybean lifecycle - from soil to seed to marketplace. Our environmental stewardship programs encourage reduced tillage as well as other tactics to improve energy efficiency, water conservation, water and air quality, and a variety of best management practices. |
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At the heart of the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) lies a dedicated and diverse group of professionals who lead our organization with vision, expertise, and a shared commitment to sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. Our Board of Directors is comprised of individuals who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge from various fields, uniting to drive CTIC's mission forward.
Get to know the exceptional individuals who guide our organiza ... more. |
This material is based upon work supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, under agreement number NR233A750004G003."
Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In addition, any reference to specific grants or types of products or services does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for those products or services.
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... in building scalable systems that could turn this year's 500 pounds into thousands of pounds of DRP kept on farmers' fields in the future is a tribute to the dedication and patience of the 10 farmers who worked with us to make PLUS-UP happen.
We all owe them our gratitude and our admiration. Here's to them and the rest of the growers in the WLEB who are protecting the watershed and working to improve water quality season after season.
Hans Kok, PhD, CCA
Senior Project Director
Conservation Technology Information Center
Coming Soon: Online 4R Nutrient Training Workshop
Under the auspices of the PLUS-UP program, we will be conducting 4 hours of online training on phosphorus management in the Western Lake Erie Basin ... more. |
Registration ends TODAY, September 6th at 1:00pm EDT for theCTIC Conservation in Action Tour.
This is your last chanceto register for the nation's best conservation agriculture tour.
Don't miss your chance to see what St. Louis has to offer and explore the past and future of ag with us!
What to expect at this year's Conservation in Action Tour:
Monday, September 12th:
6:30-9:30pm CTIC 40th Anniversary Celebration
Trolley Room, St. Louis, Forest Park
Speakers include:
-Rod Snyder, Agriculture Advisor, EPA
- Scott Herndon, President of Field to Market
- Bruno Pigott , US EPA OW Deputy Assistant Administrator
&nb ... more. |
Join us for a special opportunity!
CTIC and the Henry White Demonstration Farm are happy to announce that they are opening the morning tour stop of the 2022 Conservation in Action Tour to farmers across the area.
Henry White Demonstration Farm:
4769-4807 Centreville Ave
Millstadt, IL 62260
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... Our friends at the Hilton Frontenac, St. Louis have extended the room block offer for the 2022 Conservation in Action tour!Book today to get the special $138/night CTIC Conservation in Action Tour room rate!
Our room block now closes on Tuesday, so don’t miss this chance to take advantage of the great discount.
Book your room now!
Learn more and register today!
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Register today to earn 4 nutrient management CEUs free!
Visit ctic.org for the full agenda.
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... on all tour outreach/news releases
Logo on website sponsor page
Notebook
Logo on front cover
Welcome letter and logo on inside page
Ad in notebook
Logo on sponsor page
Recognition on Signage
Dinner
Lun ... more. |
Download the Abstract Book & Poster Session Presenter List
Get your copy of the Virtual National Recreational Water Quality Workshop Abstract booktoday! Download the PDFfile and view all of the available abstracts.
DownloadSpeaker List
Download Abstract Book
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... this partnership with farmers, researchers, market makers, and nonprofits, we will create the ability to quantify and reward farmers for their reductions in phosphorus loss," says CTIC executive director Mike Komp.
NWQI REPORTS ARE ONLINE
New insights into effective communications and watershed project design have been posted on CTIC's website. The reports provide valuable insight from farmers, agency partners, and other watershed stakeholders into resource needs, motivations for implementing conservation systems, and outreach.
The reports—created by Purdue University's Natural Resources Social Science team members Emily Usher, Dr. Sarah Church (now at Montana State ... more. |
CTIC Membership 2020 - Coming soon!
CTIC is creating a new membership structure to better serve you and your businesses.
Check back soon
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CTIC asks interested applicants to submit a cover letter, resume and references for review. Emails with attached files can be sent to CTIC by using the link below.
All application submittalsare due to CTIC no later than 5:00pm EST on Friday, March 1, 2019.
Email CTIC
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Agrium designed ESN®, a polymer coated urea, to slow the release of nitrogen into the environment. This is allows the plant to access nitrogen when it needs it the most.
ESN® yielded the highest in all of the trials. The maximum economic rate of nitrogen (MERN) was also higher probably due to ESN®’s ability to slowly release nitrogen to the crop and continue providing yield-increasing nitrogen throughout the growing season.
Take Home Lessons:
ESN® showed higher yield over spring urea.
MERN rate was higher with ESN® than urea.
Using ESN® in combination with other nitrogen sources or as split application may yield even more.
Resource:
Harms Corn After Soybeans NUE Timing.
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Corn and Soybean Digest, April 2018
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Corn and Soybean Digest, July 2018
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Corn and Soybean Digest, August 2018
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... in Iowa has shifted to engage local retail agronomists, certified crop advisors (CCAs) and individual farmers to advise and advocate for the adoption of critical conservation systems identified in the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy.
The first four years of the project, which included agronomic consultation and cost-share funding for farmers, helped producers in six critical watersheds plant nearly 40,000 acres of cover crops. A three-year extension funded by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) allows the effort to now shift to building capacity among trusted crop advisors in the Skunk River watershed.
Technical assistance is key to success with cover crops, notes CTIC project director Mike Smith.
"Those re ... more. |
We're Social too! Follow CTIC on all of our social media platforms.
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Agrium designed ESN®, a polymer coated urea, to slow the release of nitrogen into the environment. This is allows the plant to access nitrogen when it needs it the most.
ESN® yielded the highest in all of the trials. The maximum economic rate of nitrogen (MERN) was also higher probably due to ESN®’s ability to slowly release nitrogen to the crop and continue providing yield-increasing nitrogen throughout the growing season.
Take Home Lessons:
ESN® showed higher yield over spring urea.
MERN rate was higher with ESN® than urea.
Using ESN® in combination with other nitrogen sources or as split application may yield even more.
Resource:
Harms Corn After Soybeans NUE Timing.
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PowerPoint slides from Jamie Ridgely, chief operating officer of Agren, Inc. and presenter of Aug. 29 WIIN webinar on "Engaging Non-operator Landowners in Conservation."
Resource:
Engaging Absentee Landowners in Conservation
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A survey of more than 1,200 farmers across the country revealed that cover crops boosted corn yields last year by a mean of 3.66 bushels per acre (2.1%) and increased soybeans by an average of 2.19 bushels per acre (4.2%)—the third year in a row a yield increase following cover crops was recorded by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) Cover Crop Survey. Read the full report.
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Whether it's collaborating on a project, joining a committee or just starting a conversation about your own conservation goals, we want to hear from you. Contact our Executive Director Chad Watts at watts@ctic.org or by calling 765-494-9555.
Make sure you check us out onFacebookandTwitter!We look forward to working with you this year.
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Here are some updates and reminders as the new year gets underway.
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The 2018 Winter Board of Directors meeting will be held on February 20 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Fertilizer Institute in Washington, D.C.Ballotsare now available to vote for board directors, who will serve a 3-year term beginning on March 1. CTIC members must be present at the board meeting to vote. Meetings are open to all members. If you plan on attending, please contact the CTIC office at 765-494-9555 by February 9.
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The 2018 Winter Board of Directors meeting will be held on February 20 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Fertilizer Institute in Washington, D. C. Ballots are now available to vote for board directors, who will serve a 3-year term beginning on March 1. CTIC members must be present at the board meeting to vote. Meetings are open to all members. If you plan on attending, please contact the CTIC office at 765-494-9555 by February 9.
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CTIC has partnered with the Honey Bee Health Coalition on its Bee Integrated Demonstration Project. This project brings together beekeepers and producers to show how a suite of best practices can be implemented together in agricultural landscapes to support honey bee health. This innovative strategy provides a blueprint for supporting pollinator health across North America.
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Whether it's collaborating on a project, joining a committee or just starting a conversation about your own conservation goals, we want to hear from you.
Contact our Executive Director Chad Watts at watts@ctic.org or by calling 765-494-9555. Make sure you check us out on Facebook and Twitter! We look forward to working with you this year.
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Here are some updates and reminders as the new year gets underway.
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CHAMPION
We demonstrate and advocate for conservation agriculture from the field to the halls of government.
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CONNECT
We build coalitions that connect farmers, agribusinesses, researchers and policymakers to share information, take a closer look at issues and demonstrate systems.
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A survey of more than 1,200 farmers across the country revealed that cover crops boosted corn yields last year by a mean of 3.66 bushels per acre (2.1%) and increased soybeans by an average of 2.19 bushels per acre (4.2%)—the third year in a row a yield increase following cover crops was recorded by the Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC) Cover Crop Survey.
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(NOTE: There is audio feedback at the beginning of the webinar. We are working on correcting and will post the new version as soon as it is completed.)
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Ten years of tillage-transect data collected by the State of Indiana were used to verify the ability of OpTIS algorithms to automatically process publicly-available remote sensing data, in order to accurately characterize tillage practices and the presence of winter cover crops.
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Below is information, materials, presentations, agendas, etc. from 2014, 2013 and 2010 workshops.
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The National Aquatic Resource Surveys (NARS) Workshop was co-located witht the 10th National Monitoring Conference in Tampa, Florida.
The dedicated NARS session was held on Friday, May 6, 2016 from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm. Tony Olsen presented and it was recorded as a webinar.
View the agenda.
Download a copy of the slides. (7.5 MB).
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Below is information, materials, agendas, etc. from 2016, 2015 and 2011 workshops.
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Workshops planned for 2017 and 2018
National Aquatic Resources Workshop
December 5-7, 2017
Silver Springs, MD
Click here for more information.
National Aquatic Resources Workshop
will be held in conjunction with NWQMC
Spring, 2018.
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Click on the links below for more information from past workshops, including materials, presentations and webinars.
National
Coastal
Lakes
Wetlands
R Training
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July 26, 2016
EPA Region 5
Chicago, Illinois
Click on the title links below for the slide presentations.
Welcome – Hugh Sullivan, EPA
AMBI / mAmbi – Peg Pelletier, EPA ORD National Health and Environmental Effects Research Lab
Weighted Tolerance Value – Ted Angradi, EPA ORD, Duluth
Modified OTI – Lyuba Burlakova, Great Lakes Center, Buffalo State College
Recorded Webinar - July 26, 2016
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Join us for an up-close look at innovative conservation practices on a wide range of crops and farms in Idaho's Treasure Valley, August 23-24. Seats go fast for these great programs - register now!
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Click here to take the survey online for a chance to win a $100 gift card! Whether you plant them now, used to plant them or never tried… your insight is important. Your opinions will help guide policy, research and education on cover crops nationwide..
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2015 was a year of great accomplishment for CTIC and our members. See how the numbers stack up in CTIC's Success by the Numbers.
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Since 1982, CTIC has been providing technical, educational and practical support to advance conservation farming success. Learn more by downloading our new informational brochure.
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Richard Budell
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Ron Rice and Luigi Trotta
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Ron Rice and Luigi Trotta
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Ron Rice and Luigi Trotta
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Ron Rice and Luigi Trotta
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The benefits of using cover crops are well established, but adoption in agronomic farming systems is unknown. The objectives of this study were to quantify cover crop use and identify factors associated with their adoption.
Are cover crops being used in the US corn belt?
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Cropping systems that improve soil conservation are needed for mixed grain and forage enterprises in the upper Midwest.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Corn Production with Kura Clover as a Living Mulch.
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Cover crops help control erosion, prevent nutrient leaching, fix nitrogen, improve sail conditions, and protect seedlings, but also use water, thus affecting soil water relationships far the next crop.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Cover crop effects on soil water relationships.
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Yield data for various applied nitrogen rates during 1986 through 1995 were used to estimate corn yield response functions for hairy vetch, crimson clover, winter wheat, and no cover alternatives.
<span style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:115%;Calibri" ,"sans-serif";times="" new="" roman";times="" roman";"="">Economic analysis of the effects of winter cover crops on no-tillage corn yield response to applied nitrogen.
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Click here to view current copies (or old ones) or subscribe to receive the newsletter weekly during the cropping season (see subscribe tab). The newsletter is also a valuable newsletter for Board members and producers.
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Download the entire document or print sections as needed. A print version of the publication is available for sale ($15) as Bulletin 789 from the Ohio State University Extension Media Distribution Center.
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During the first 3-4 years of a no-till system, the soil biology and chemistry undergoes several significant changes.
No-Till Management- Nitrogen Management
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Most Indiana soils require periodic applications of limestone or other liming materials for optimum crop production.
Soil Acidity and Liming of Indiana Soils
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At Case IH, we recognize that ag sustainability is a balance between agronomics, economics and the environment. We're committed to helping farmers create more value from sustainable farming systems. |
The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is a strong advocate of 4R nutrient stewardship - right source, right rate, right time, right place - and a leading proponent of ensuring that sound science is a solid component of public policy decisions. |
Growmark is a cooperative organization based in Bloomington, Ill., one of the top ten co-ops in the nation. Among our core values is to "promote the welfare of the community and environmental stewardship," a commitment that we carry out daily throughout our organization. |
The Livingston County field office provides technical assistance as well as financial assistance through EQIP and CSP programs. |
We designed this trial to determine the Most Economical Rate of Nitrogen (MERN) and to compare spring, surface applied urea verses spring applied SUPERU?. |
CTIC'S 2012 Conservation in Action Tour in the Mississippi Delta was a huge success. Make sure to check out pictures, videos and interviews from the event which hosted nearly 250 participants from across the nation.
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Ag Day reporter Tyne Morgan visited the CTIC office in early March to conduct an interview with Karen Scanlon, CTIC executive director. Scanlon discussed conservation trends CTIC has seen in the last three decades and challenges facing agriculture over the next several years.
The interview aired as part of AgDay's "Future of Farming" series on Wednesday, March 21. Visit AgDay's website to see the story. |
... a relatively low phosphorus level, so we demonstrated The Mosaic Company's MicroEssentials applied as a side-dress (plant nutrients placed on or in the soil near the roots of a growing crop to provide an additional boost in available phosphorus) in a corn after corn no-tilled field.
The Mosaic Company designed MicroEssentials ® to allow uniform nutrient distribution and provide essential nutrients crops need in one granule, with two forms of sulfur for season-long nutrition.
The MicroEssentials
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Our demonstrations illustrate the 4 Rs of nutrient management:
Right Source
Right Rate
Right Place
Right Time
We demonstrate management systems-- not individual practices.
We measure practice success through agronomic yield, economic sustainability, nutrient use efficiency and water quality impacts.
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This guide was developed to answer frequently asked questions related to proper sampling methods, analysis, and interpretation of results
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Information concerning odor mitigation, storage, nutrient management, and much more are listed here as well as a searchable Environmental Research Database.
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Wetlands: A Component of an Integrated Farming Operation
This document explores some of the
basics of wetland protection and restoration.
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The winter CTIC board meeting will be held January 31 - February 1, 2012. This meeting is in conjunction with the National Association of Conservation Districts annual meeting. For more information, please click here.
All members are invited to attend. Please see the draft agenda for more details, and RSVP CTIC if you would like to join us.
Jan. 31 - Feb. 1, 2012
Las Vegas, NV
Tuesday (Jan. 31) -- 12:00 - 5:00 pm
Room: Brera 4, Third Level (Mezzanine)
Wednesday (Feb. 1) -- 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Room: Brera 2, Third Level
Hotel Information:
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
3708 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
702-698-7000
Deadl ... more. |
CTIC Silver Corporate Member, Agri Drain Corp, America's most complete supplier of water management products for wetlands, ponds, lakes, controlled drainage, and subsurface irrigation with the best guarantee. To learn more about Agri Drain Corp, visit www.agridrain.com
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On November 23, 2009, Agstar released FarmWare Version 3.3. FarmWare is an analytical tool designed to provide a preliminary assessment on the feasibility of integrating anaerobic digestion into an existing or planned manure management system. The new version contains updated computations for biogas generation and costs of digester systems. The software can be downloaded free from the AgSTAR Web site.
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Spying on Residue
Remote Sensing of Crop Residue Cover and Soil Tillage Intensity
Remote Sensing the Spacial Distribution of Crop Residues
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CTIC Institutional Member, No-Till Farmer, provides the management information for farmers interested in and practicing reduced tillage techniques. To learn more about No-Till Farmer, visit www.no-tillfarmer.com/
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CTIC Institutional Member, LandPro LLC, specializes in consulting, property management, referrals, sales and acquisitions of agricultural land. To learn more about LandPro LLC, visit www.landprollc.com.
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CTIC Institutional Member, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, which is the only tribe in North Carolina that is recognized by the federal government, is located in western North Carolina in their traditional homelands. Their Tribe consists of approximately 14,000 enrolled members and holds 56,000 acres for the Qualla Boundary. To learn more about the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, visit http://nc-cherokee.com/
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CTIC Institutional Bronze Member, the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC), has been the voice of America's farmer cooperatives since 1929. The members are regional and national farmer cooperatives, which are in turn comprised of nearly 3,000 local farmer cooperatives across the country. To learn more about the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, visit www.ncfc.org
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CTIC Institutional Bronze Member, the Indiana Soybean Alliance, works to improve the viability of Indiana Soybean farmers and industry partners. To learn more about the Indiana Soybean Alliance, visit www.indianasoybean.com
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CTIC Corporate Member, Yetter Manufacturing, is committed toward providing you with products built for years of use. From design to final assembly, Yetter products are constructed to withstand the rigors of even the toughest field conditions. They have a relentless pursuit of quality and are always looking for ways to improve equipment while controlling the cost of the final product. To learn more about Yetter Manufacturing, visit www.yetterco.com.
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CTIC Bronze Corporate Member, Advanced Microbial Solutions, Inc. (AMS), is an agricultural technology company leading the development of applied, biochemistry-based solutions for plant nutrition. AMS solutions help growers adapt to the rapidly changing demands of agriculture by providing the most effective tools to improve sustainability and increase yields. To learn more about Advanced Microbial Solutions (AMS), visit www.superbio.com
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CTIC Silver Corporate Member, John Deere, is one of the oldest industrial companies in the United States. In 1837, John Deere founded the company that would come to bear his name. Incorporated as Deere & Company in 1868, it has grown from a one-man blacksmith shop into a corporation that today does business around the world and employs approximately 47,000 people. To learn more about John Deere, visit
www.deere.com
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GLCCI Consultant Resource page:
This will be seen only by the GLCCI group. I think the easiest way to go from this page to the data base is a link. I will include other links on this page for the consultants also.
Example links
Farm Plan
Project Brochure
Project Logo
Scheduled meetings
Notes and Agendas
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Better Soil, Better Yields
This publication serves as a guidebook to improving soil organic matter
and infiltration using continuous no-till.
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To meet the projected soybean demand of 2030, growers would have to add 168 million acres of soybeans to existing production if global yields remained the same as today, or double those yields to 59.5 bushels per acre to harvest enough soybeans on today’s acreage.
Biotech crops show promise to double or triple the current rate of yield increase in corn, and match or exceed the average 0.5-bushel-per-acre annual increa ... more. |
Markets for water quality and carbon trading credits could allow growers to earn money for the environmental services they provide.
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Biotech crops have reduced the risks and challenges of switching to conservation tillage or no-till practices. Since glyphosate-tolerant crops were introduced in 1996, acreage of no-till full-season soybeans in the U.S. has increased by nearly 70%.
Click here to see the data.
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Equip Your Combine to Chop and Evenly Spread Residue..more
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Animal manure management is a significant challenge for many small dairy farms. One manure management system in limited use is a bedded pack. A bedded pack management system (BPMS) is defined here as a covered barnyard and feeding area that holds a variety of dairy cattle, storing their manure through the accumulation of an unturned bedding of dry material for later use as a nutrient amendment.
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Information concerning odor mitigation, storage, nutrient management, and much more are listed here as well as a searchable Environmental Research Database.
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In Illinois, there are three different manure management plans that a livestock facility might need to have. University of Illinois Extension has worked with Illinois Department of Agriculture, Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to develop one website of step-by-step instructions that, if completed, will comply with the needs of all three agencies.
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Initiatives, publications, and opportunities for multi-state collaboration in animal waste management.
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For over 28 years, CTIC has been collecting and disseminating information on agricultural conservation. From air quality to yield, we have information to share.
Click on the first letter of your topic to see the resources we have available. Don't see what you're looking for? E-mail us at ctic@ctic.org.
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... Board of Directors meeting
* Two gift memberships at the Individual Silver level
* Ad space in two issues of Partners magazine ($600 value)
* Recognition at two CTIC event during your annual membership term
* Two complimentary registrations to CTIC’s Conservation In Action Tour
* Recognition on CTIC’s Website
* One-year subscription to Partners magazine and Member Mail e-newsletter
* Access to Crop Residue Management Survey data from 1989 to 2004 through CTIC Website
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5-minute video about how The Nature Conservancy and partners work with farmers to improve water quality in the Pecatonica River. |
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web site with link in rt hand column for partner page and resources used to develop the project |
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