The Fertilizer Institute looked to the future in announcing an industry-wide commitment to commit 70 million acres under 4R Nutrient Stewardship management by 2030. Acres managed under the 4R concept incorporate practices that use the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place. When the 4Rs are put into practice, growers can achieve higher yields, lower input costs, and fewer nutrient losses to the environment.
“The sustainable use of fertilizer is not only a priority for the fertilizer industry but millions of farmers across the nation,” says Corey Rosenbush, TFI president and CEO. “A key goal for the industry is a commitment to a healthy environment and setting this goal to improve nutrient stewardship is an important step in meeting that goal.”
A 4R acre is defined as an acre of U.S. cropland under management using 4R practices, such as organic sources and removal rates, variable technology, split applications, the use of cover crops, accounting for the weather during the application, and several others. Fertilizer is a key component of sustainable crop production systems, and the fertilizer industry recognizes the need to use these nutrients efficiently. Practices based on the right source, rate, time, and placement of fertilizer application can lead to improved on-farm profitability, improved water quality, and reduced loss of greenhouse gas.
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