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Fertilizer Use

The application of commercial fertilizers is economically beneficial for most farmers. However, when manure and/or commercial fertilizer quantities or application timing are not consistent with crop requirements and growing cycle conditions, excess nutrients can harm the environment, polluting ground water and/or surface water, lakes, streams, and rivers. ERS provides information on commercial fertilizer application rates, the adoption of nutrient management practices for selected crops, and conservation programs designed to enhance the environment.


Spotlights

Cropping Practices Data Summaries—Annual field-level surveys are summarized to show the current status and trends in crop production practices for several large-acreage field crops (corn, soybeans, wheat, and cotton).

Measuring the Success of Conservation Programs—Most conservation programs are designed to improve the environment by offering incentive payments to farmers who change their farming practices, including the adoption of nutrient management practices.

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