Purdue University researchers and educators have developed decision making tools and assessment methods to aid landowners in improving their nutrient and pesticide management.
Assessment and Planning Tools
Farmers and crop consultants can use the Farmstead assessment and Field assessment materials to improve their nutrient and pesticide handling and use. These materials will take you step by step through a self-assessment of your farmstead and field management practices.
Making Fertilizer Decisions
On-line calculators (links to the manure management planner web site, look for calculators in right hand column) for planning crop fertilizer needs and nutrient availability in manure will help inform your nutrient management planning.
The Tri-State Fertilizer Recommendations publication (pdf) provides details for nutrient applications for corn, soybeans, wheat, and alfalfa.
Site specific farming techniques can improve efficiency of nutrient and pesticide application and lower the risk of over-applying these crop inputs.
Agricultural Drainage and Nitrate
Agricultural drainage enables Indiana farmers to produce outstanding yields, yet it has environmental costs. Subsurface tile drains provide a direct flowpath for nitrate loading to streams and rivers. This site provides information on Purdue University research and extension on drainage water quality and spacing recommendations.
Pest Management and Pesticide Resources
Purdue Pesticide Programs (PPP) implements pesticide education outreach programs directed at pesticide user groups and the general public; coordinates pesticide research and pesticide impact assessment projects, and transfers regulatory information from EPA and the Office of the State Chemist to the regulated community and other interested parties. Pesticide applicator training provides on-going education and certification for people using pesticides in commercial and public settings. Atrazine and surface water is the topic for 2005.
Integrated pest management field crops program helps producers implement practices that can reduce the need for, and improve the effectiveness of insecticides.
The National Agricultural Pesticide Risk Analysis (NAPRA) Web Model, developed at Purdue, provides user input tools for spatial impact predictions on water quality.
Where agricultural areas drain to surface water used in public drinking water systems, the Indiana Pesticide Watershed Work Group (PWWG) promotes stewardship to protect water quality.
The Alternative Control Outreach Research Network Web Site from Purdue Entomology provides solutions for non-toxic pest control for home gardeners, with information that can also benefit farmers wishing to employ alternatives for pest control.
Regulatory Issues
Contact the Office of the Indiana State Chemist for regulatory questions about pesticides and fertilizer. The Indiana State Chemist is charged with administering agricultural laws involving seeds, fertilizer, animal feeds and pesticides that ensure truth-in-labeling, food safety, user safety and protection of our environment.
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Some photos courtesy of NRCS
