EDITOR’S NOTE: The following press release has been updated from a version published on July 28, 2021 to include a recording of the webinar.
AMES, Iowa — The Iowa Learning Farms conservation webinar that took place August 4 at noon featured Melissa Wilson, assistant professor and extension specialist, University of Minnesota. The focus of Wilson’s research is on the optimization of manure nutrient use to facilitate crop production.
In the webinar, “Applying Liquid Manure to Living Roots: Research Update,” Wilson discusses the challenges of keeping manure nutrients in place and her research on alternative practices to fall application. She provides an update on current research involving sidedress manure application to corn as well as application to growing cover crops. The session includes lessons learned, what has worked well and what has not, over the past three years of research.
“Livestock manure is a ‘home grown’ nutrient source, so to speak, that is typically locally available for use on cash crops,” said Wilson. “Optimizing the use of this renewable resource can help reduce fertilizer needs (saving money!). Developing and refining best practices for manure application will deliver substantial benefits to farmers while minimizing nutrient losses from fields.”
Iowa Learning Farms – August 4, 2021 from ISU CALS ONLINE on Vimeo.
About Iowa Learning Farms:
Established in 2004, Iowa Learning Farms is building a Culture of Conservation by encouraging adoption of conservation practices. Farmers, researchers and ILF team members are working together to identify and implement the best management practices that improve water quality and soil health while remaining profitable. Partners of Iowa Learning Farms include the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Iowa Department of Natural Resources, EPA Section 319 Grant Program and GROWMARK, Inc.
— Iowa Learning Farms
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