1995 Annual Report for FNC95-113
Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 1995: $5,000.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/1996
Region: North Central
State: Michigan
Project Coordinator:
Nitrogen Management on Sandy Soils for Environmentally and Economically Sustainable Corn Production
Summary
Economics and water quality concerns mandate a more efficient nitrogen management system on today's farm.
Objective: To ultize the "Soil Doctor"--an on-the-go, soil nitrate testing, varible rate nitrogen applicator--in order to maximize utilization of on-farm forms of organic nitrogen.
Results: Six replicated strips 12 rows wide comparing the "Soil Doctor" with Michigan State University sidedress recommendations resulted in 20% less nitrogen applied by the on-the-go tester/applicator, with no significant reduction in yield. Additional data will be collected in future tests to add credibility to initial findings.