The Nitrogen Smart Program, now in it's fourth year will be offered next week in Rochester and Waseca. It is offered to farmers who would like to learn more about improving yields and also benefiting the environment. Nitrogen is a macronutrient most often deficient for corn production in Minnesota. Adding nitrogen can improve yields. However if nitrogen levels in the soil are higher than what the corn needs it can enter the ground or surface water.

"We've had overwhelmingly positive response from Nitrogen Smart participants. It's designed to make good use of farmer's time," said Brad Carlson, extension Educator who developed the course." In the first three years more than 500 farmers, who manage more then 632,000 acres in Minnesota have taken the course. Extension survey data shows more than three fourths of them changed at least one practice on their farm because of what they learned. Surveys showed at least a $3,243 value for each attendee.

The Nitrogen Smart program will be in the mornings and then in the afternoon the Advanced Nitrogen Smart program that focuses on manure management will be offered. The programs are free and you do not have to pre-register. The Nitrogen Smart trainings are funded by the Minnesota Corn Growers Research and Promotion Council.

The Nitrogen Smart Program will be in Rochester Monday January 28, 2019 at the RCTC Heinz Center from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Advanced Nitrogen Smart will be from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Then on Tuesday January 29, 2019 Nitrogen Smart will be at FarmAmerica from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. In the afternoon the Advanced Nitrogen Smart program will be offered.

 

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