Category: Stewardship

TFI Releases 2021 Policy Priorities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today released its list of 2021 public policy priorities for working with the Biden Administration, as well as a closely divided 117th Congress.

“Our number one goal is to ensure the fertilizer industry is able to continue feeding the world sustainably within a legislative and regulatory environment that allows for industry growth and innovation,” said TFI President & CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “The policy priorities identified and approved by our members illustrate the industry’s focus on the safety and security of employees and the communities in which they operate, a commitment to environmental stewardship, and the efficient use of energy.” 

TFI’s priorities are broken down into six key areas: safety and security; energy and economic growth; environment; innovation; trade; and transportation and infrastructure.

“While safety and security are always the number one priority for our members, the environment is also at the top of the list. Specifically, the important role that the fertilizer supply chain plays in being part of the solution to address the many challenges of a changing climate,” Rosenbusch continued. “The fertilizer industry is essential to our modern way of life and our members have made minimizing the environmental impact of crop nutrients a key pillar of how they operate. We want to see that reflected in public policy. It is absolutely critical that any climate change policies or initiatives must not impact our ability to provide farmers with the crop nutrients they need.”

Rosenbusch says that some of that is offense and some of that is defense. An example of offense is TFI’s work to promote the important role agricultural retailers have in providing agronomic assistance and expertise to farmers looking to implement   sustainable fertilizer practices such as the 4Rs, which is utilizing the right source of fertilizer, at the right rate, at the right time and in the right place. “The 4Rs are a scientifically proven method of getting maximum crop yield while significantly reducing environmental impacts, such as run-off, and any state nutrient loss reduction plan must include the 4Rs as a backbone to handling crop nutrients.” Agricultural retailers are also well-positioned to assist their farmer customers interested in participating in voluntary, market-based carbon markets that incentivize the implementation of fertilizer best management practices on the farm which are proven to help sequester carbon in the soil. 

On defense, Rosenbusch says it is mostly about the unintended consequences of policies. “On the issue of greenhouse gas emissions, U.S. production of nitrogen fertilizers is both energy-intensive and trade exposed. We need to make sure that policies are not put into place that send production to areas of the world that do not use more efficient production methods and lack the same type of environmental protections we have in the U.S. Greenhouse gas emissions are a global issue and discouraging efficient production in the U.S. in favor of a dirtier process overseas actually harms the environment more than it helps.”

Tony Will, Chairman of the TFI Board of Directors and President & CEO of CF Industries, Inc., added, “The fertilizer industry in the United States is proud of its legacy of ensuring the food security for our fellow citizens and for the world in a sustainable manner. Our public policy priorities are a roadmap to build on these contributions and to help address the challenges before us, particularly for the environment. We look forward to working with the Biden administration and Congress on solutions that advance our shared commitment to a better and healthier world.”

While TFI will be heavily focused on environmental policy, the issues of trade, infrastructure and safety & security all are critical to the industry, as well. “TFI supported the USMCA and are hopeful that the Biden Administration will be seeking to update existing and creating new trade agreements that promote open markets and fair competition,” Rosenbusch continued. “Trade is incredibly important specifically to our industry, but also to our grower customers that are quite literally feeding the world and need fair access to new and expanded markets.”

Infrastructure is critical to the fertilizer industry because of the just-in-time nature of demand. “Fertilizer needs to be delivered to growers exactly when and where they need it and there is not much room for error. When the optimal window opens   it has to happen, and the industry must  be ready and ensure the materials are all in place,” explained Rosenbusch. “Bottlenecks due to road or bridge closures or delays because of crumbling locks and dams have the potential to be devastating to applying crop nutrients when they are most needed for healthy growth and strong yields.”

TFI will use its member-driven public policy priorities to educate policymakers on the realities of an essential industry that is responsible for half of all food grown around the world. “Our industry is vital to ensuring our farmers can enrich the soil and grow the crops that feed the world and its growing population,” Rosenbusch concluded. “We look forward to working with the Biden Administration and the new Congress.”

TFI’s full list of 2021 public policy priorities can be found here.

 

 

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

Innovative and Practical 4R Nutrient Management Strategies to be Highlighted in Virtual Field Day Event

WASHINGTON, March 8, 2021 – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) and the Ohio 4R Nutrient Stewardship Council today announced the 2021 Field Day event will be held virtually on Tuesday, March 30, 2021, at 8 a.m. CST. The virtual field day will help agronomists, crop advisors, and producers better understand the benefits of nutrient stewardship and how to implement best management practices on their farms or with customers.

The field day, hosted by the 4R Field Day Alliance, provides practical demonstrations and education about implementing 4R practices. This year’s agenda offers an overview of the 4R program, a session on nutrient management for better yields and efficiency, and a discussion of the economics of the 4Rs. Participating certified crop advisors (CCAs) may earn three CEU credits for participating.

“While the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship are based in science, they are best demonstrated in a practical manner, such as the 4R Field Day,” said Corey Rosenbush, TFI president and CEO. “While we intend to host this event in person in the future, we hope this year’s virtual platform allows a larger audience the opportunity to benefit from this valuable information.”

The virtual field day will feature agronomists, farmers, and retailers who successfully use 4R nutrient management strategies. Additionally, equipment and technologies used to support these practices will be highlighted.

4R Nutrient Stewardship provides a framework to achieve cropping system goals such as increased production, increased farmer productivity, enhanced environmental protection and improved sustainability. To achieve these goals, the 4R concept incorporates the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time an in the right place. The virtual field day continues the 4R commitment to support sustainability measures across all agricultural practices and society as a whole. 4R believes that in order to make the use of fertilizer sustainable it must support cropping systems that provide economic, social, and environmental benefits.

The event is free; however, advance registration for the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Virtual Field Day is required and is available by going to hbsound.com/4r.

Sponsors for this year’s event include The Fertilizer Institute, The Mosaic Company, Environmental Tillage Systems, the Ohio Nutrient Stewardship Council, and Corteva Agriscience.

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2021 4R Advocates Represent More Than 31,000 Acres Managed Under Sustainable 4R Fertilizer Practices

WASHINGTON, Jan. 12, 2021 – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) announced today it is recognizing 10 new farmers and retailers as 4R Advocates. This honor is bestowed upon select pairs who play a crucial role in showcasing the real-world economic and environmental benefits of implementing 4R Nutrient Stewardship principles. Now in its 10th year, the 4R Advocate program demonstrates the in-field successes of implementing 4R practices based on the right source, rate, time, and placement of fertilizer.

“For 10 years, TFI has honored agricultural retailers and farmers who do more than just talk the talk when it comes to 4R Nutrient Stewardship,” said Corey Rosenbusch, TFI president and CEO. “I am continually amazed by the passion and dedication these advocates bring to their work and livelihoods, and we are excited to work with them in the coming year.”

4R Advocates recognized since 2012 collectively farm more than 246,000 acres on a variety of cropping systems in 25 states. The 2021 class of 4R Advocates represents 31,745 acres and three new states – Alabama, Arkansas, and California.

This year’s Advocates are:

  • Myron Johnson, Double J Farms, Headland, Ala.
    Drew Schrimsher, GreenPoint Ag, Decatur, Ala.
     
  • Zack Brown, Zack Brown Farms, Success, Ark.
    James Varvil, Nutrien Ag Solutions, Corning, Ark.
     
  • Brenda Wolgamott, The Wine Group, Rippon, Calif.
    Rebecca Kaupp, Helena Agri Enterprises, Salinas, Calif.
     
  • Janette Veazey-Post, Lamb Farms Inc., Oakfield, N.Y.
    David DeGolyer, Western New York Crop Management Association, Warsaw, N.Y.
     
  • Stephen Paget, Simplot Grandview Farms, Burbank, Wash.,
    Jack Jensen, Simplot Grower Solutions, Pasco, Wash.

Throughout the year the Advocates will be included in TFI’s outreach efforts to promote fertilizer management practices by hosting farm field days, participating in conference panels, and speaking on behalf of 4Rs to their farming peers.

The 4R Advocate program is one of many facets of a high-priority campaign to raise awareness and adoption of 4R Nutrient Stewardship practices. Fertilizer is a key component of sustainable crop production systems, and the fertilizer industry recognizes the need to efficiently utilize these nutrients. 4R Advocates and other farmers have partnered with The Fertilizer Institute to demonstrate how 4R practices have led to cost-efficiencies and improved environmental outcomes on their fields. More information and data on their efforts is available at 4RFarming.org.

4R Nutrient Stewardship provides a framework to achieve in-field goals, such as increased production and profitability, enhanced environmental protection, and improved sustainability. The 4R concept incorporates practices that use the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place.

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org.  

Coalition Names Illinois CCA Winner of CCA Conservationist of the Year Award

WASHINGTON, Dec. 8, 2020 – Today, Michael Wilson of Allandale, Ill., was named this year’s recipient of the Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Conservationist of the Year Award.

The 2020 Award was announced by Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Acting Chief Kevin Norton during a virtual ceremony held by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The CCA Conservationist of the Year Award annually recognizes a certified crop adviser who exhibits dedication to exceptional conservation delivery and customer service and has shown to be a leader in their industry.

“Mr. Wilson has made significant contributions to the agriculture industry through his experience and dedication to conservation,” said National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) CEO Jeremy Peters while presenting the award. “His work and achievements truly make him a leader of stewardship and soil health.”

“Admirably, Mr. Mike Wilson is a true example of NRCS’s mission of delivering conservation solutions so agricultural producers can protect our natural resources and feed a growing world,” said Acting Chief Norton. “It takes partners like those in agribusiness with an eye toward natural resource conservation to achieve our goals to increase the overall stewardship of our nation’s farming, ranching and forest landowners’ operations on private lands.”

This year’s award recognizes Wilson’s over 30 years of crop advising experience. He currently works for the Wabash Valley Service Company with a group of CCAs to reach growers on about 600,000 acres in southeast Illinois. His work includes demonstrating to farmers practices and products to increase Nutrient Use Efficiency (NUE), maintain or improve yield, and reduce nutrient loss to the environment. His teamwork with growers has resulted in an increased use of nitrogen stabilizers, with 85 percent of all nitrogen applications receiving a stabilizer in the product.

“Agricultural retailers and their employees play a dynamic and trusted role in conservation planning and Mike is a great example of this. ARA congratulates Mike on his award and is proud to be a partner in this annual recognition,” said Daren Coppock, President and CEO of the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA).

“TFI has known Mike for many years now, and it is no surprise to us that he was chosen as the Conservationist of the Year,” said Corey Rosenbusch, President and CEO of The Fertilizer Institute (TFI). “His commitment to conservation and to the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship is exemplary and reflects the values of agricultural retailers across the country who work with farmers to implement best practices.”

“Mike is a great example of the value of Certified Crop Advisers working closely with farmers and ranchers to promote conservation stewardship,” said Nick Goeser, CEO of the American Society of Agronomy (ASA), Crop Science Society of America (CSSA) and Soil Science Society of America (SSSA). “Not only is he a conservation and agriculture leader, but Mike is dedicated to training the next generation of CCAs to continue the legacy of economic and environmental sustainability.”

“Soil health and conservation are critical elements of agriculture sustainability,” said Dr. Barb Glenn, CEO of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA). “We congratulate and thank Mike for his committed stewardship of our natural resources.”

Wilson was named a 4R Advocate by The Fertilizer Institute in 2013 for his commitment to helping growers implement the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship. He is also a regular guest speaker at Wabash Valley College in Mount Carmel, Ill., and works to support students by hosting field trips and tours of the Wabash Valley Service Company’s operations.

“Mr. Wilson is a natural teacher, and his real-world experience … always elicits questions from students about how to implement these strategies in our region of Illinois,” said Steve Hnetkovsky, assistant professor of agriculture at Wabash Valley College and Wilson’s nominator for the award. “He is a force of nature when it comes to advocating for responsible nutrient management and stewardship of our soil resource.”

To view a recording of the award presentation, click here.

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The CCA Conservationist of the Year Award is supported by a conservation and agribusiness partnership between the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Agricultural Retailers Association, the American Society of Agronomy, CropLife America, Crop Science Society of America, National Association of Conservation Districts, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, Soil Science Society of America and The Fertilizer Institute. The American Society of Agronomy administers the award. Learn more at https://www.agronomy.org/awards.

Rethinking the Future of Fertilizer

For more than 100 years, the fertilizer industry – and agriculture at large – has benefited off the work of science and technology. Starting in 1918, with the Haber Bosch process, which made the production of ammonia fertilizer economically feasible. Since then, the industry has kept refining not just how fertilizers are made, but how they are used by plants.

It’s this later work that I think about when I think of the future of fertilizer. Agriculture faces challenges, that while not new to the conversation today, they are vitally important to the future of our industry and the planet. Whether it’s finding sustainable ways to feed a growing global population or responding to environmental concerns at local levels, we will need to think creatively about fertilizer going forward.

Fertilizers are one tool farmers can’t do without. They help replenish the soil after each cropping season and allow for the growth of crops at yields that provide sustained global food production. However, nitrogen and phosphorus applied without consideration of 4R principles can lead to nutrient losses impacting both air and water quality. Enhanced efficiency fertilizers (EEFs) and other new product technologies and formulations can increase a plant’s ability to use fertilizers and help keep fertilizer in the plant’s root zone – both of which reduce nutrient loss. In a farm’s conservation system, these products can reduce agriculture’s impacts on the environment while maintaining or increasing productivity and profitability. And for many in the food supply chain, these products can be an important element for reaching sustainability goals that focus on improving water quality and mitigating climate change.

There has been much development to make sure that fertilizer stays in the soil in a form that is readily available for plant uptake. Whether that is through the use of 4R Nutrient Stewardship, EEFs, biostimulants, or any number of new technologies on the horizon, the fertilizer industry has always looked for solutions. And we’re now presented with a new opportunity for the next generation of commercial fertilizers.

This summer, TFI partnered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the NextGen Fertilizer Challenges, which aims to accelerate the development of innovative fertilizer product technologies and to increase the use of EEFs that maintain or increase crop yields and reduce environmental impacts to air, land, and water.

Public-private partnerships, such as this one, are key to improving the registration process for new fertilizers and increasing farmers’ access to new technologies that provide needed agronomic benefit. The NextGen fertilizer challenge will further stimulate innovation and increase on-farm adoption of effective fertilizer product technologies.

Additionally, the development of new enhanced efficiency and NextGen fertilizers can impact farmers’ bottom lines. When farmers use EEFs and other products as part of their 4R Nutrient Stewardship management, they have the opportunity to increase yields, decrease costs, and reduce environmental losses. 4R practices are based on applying the right source of fertilizer at the right rate, the right time, and in the right place. Getting the 4Rs right means increasing nutrient uptake by the crop to improve farmer ROI and crop productivity. And, reducing losses to the environment means improved water quality and reduced ammonia and greenhouse gas emissions. 

Through the 4R Farming initiative, we are seeing evidence of this through on-farm data. I have two examples to share here, but more data is available at 4Rfarming.org.

From 2014 to 2017, a corn farmer in Illinois went from using basic 4R principles to an advanced strategy that incorporated variable rate fertilizer applications throughout the growing season, using enhanced efficiency fertilizers, and other 4R practices. By 2017, his yields had increased, nutrient use efficiency had improved, and impressively, he saw a 34 percent reduction in CO2 emissions coming from his fields.

A Virginia corn farmer, whose farm backs right up to the Rappahanock River, has been practicing the 4Rs for many years. He’s incorporated many advanced practices in conjunction with conservation and the use of enhanced efficiency fertilizers. On the fields where he has implemented an advanced 4R strategy, he saw a 14 percent CO2 emissions reduction, all while his cost per acre decreased.

While we can’t solely attribute these improvements to the use of EEFs and other fertilizer technologies, we are seeing that their use as part of a broader 4R management strategy is yielding results for farmers and the environment across the country.

The NextGen Fertilizer Challenges will further stimulate innovation and increase on-farm adoption of these effective fertilizer product technologies. Details about the challenges are available on the EPA website and winners will be announced in December 2020 for the existing EEFs challenge and February 2020 for the Next Gen Fertilizer Innovation challenge.

  • EEFs: Environmental and Agronomic Challenge: This challenge aims to identify existing EEFs currently on or near-market that meet or exceed certain environmental and agro-economic criteria. Submissions are due October 30, 2020.
  • Next Gen Fertilizer Innovations Challenge: This challenge aims to identify concepts for novel technologies for fertilizers that can reduce the environmental effects from modern agriculture while maintaining or increasing crop yields. Submissions to the Next Gen Fertilizer Innovations Challenge are not near-market and may include EEFs and other product technologies used with or in combination with commercial fertilizers. Submissions are due November 30, 2020.

TFI and our members are excited to be part of these future solutions for the American farmer and the environment.  

The Fertilizer Institute Funds Research on 4R Practice Implementation in the Northern Great Plains

WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2020 – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today announced $800,000 in new funding through the 4R Research Fund for a research project led by University of Minnesota to evaluate and adapt the 4R Nutrient Stewardship concept for sustainable nutrient management in the Red River Basin.

“One of the basic tenants of the 4R Nutrient Stewardship initiative is that it is not a one size fits all approach, and that’s why geography-specific research, such as this project, is so vital,” said Corey Rosenbusch, TFI President and CEO. “The fertilizer industry’s commitment to the 4R Research Fund is a critical component in our efforts to improve sustainable plant nutrition.”

The Red River Basin of the North is currently adapting to new demands in response to increased grain production and increased nutrient loads in the region’s freshwater lakes. Defining and adopting 4R Nutrient Stewardship and edge-of-field practices for this cold weather climate across the region is critical to reducing the extent and severity of nutrient runoff losses from agricultural land to Lake Winnipeg in Canada.

The international border separating the source of the nutrients from the area of impact has increased pressure on farmers to adopt strategies to reduce nutrient runoff. Previous research in the Western Lake Erie Basin has shown that adopting a 4R framework can help meet nutrient load reduction goals. This project, a public-private partnership, will evaluate the 4R Nutrient Stewardship concept and amend it for implementation in the shifting cropping systems and cold climate of the Red River Basin.

“We are excited to adapt the 4R Nutrient Stewardship concept for this critical, but often overlooked, North American watershed,” said Dr. Lindsay Pease, assistant professor at the University of Minnesota and lead project investigator. “This cross-border, multi-institutional project will allow us to work alongside growers in developing practical phosphorus management solutions that protect both the long-term sustainability of agriculture and our shared water resources.”

The project will also develop outreach programming and resources to communicate research findings and engage stakeholders to support the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program in the region.

In addition to the 4R Research Fund grant, $1.2 million has been leveraged in matching funds and infrastructure. The University of Minnesota will work with partners in the United States and Canada, including the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Manitoba Department of Agriculture, the University of Manitoba, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Minnesota Agricultural Water Resources Center, Sand County Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, North Dakota State University, and the University of Waterloo.

The Fertilizer Institute, in cooperation with Fertilizer Canada, established the 4R Research Fund through the Foundation for Agronomic Research in 2013 to address U.S. and Canadian knowledge gaps in nutrient management. Since then, in the Untied States, the industry has invested $9.2 million into projects while leveraging $10 million in other funding to support 4R research. More information is available at 4Rresearch.org.

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TFI is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org.

TFI Announces International Governing Body for 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program

WASHINGTON, September 3, 2020 – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) announced the formation of an international governing body for the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program – the Global Nutrient Stewardship Certification Council (NSCC). The NSCC is composed of representatives from The Fertilizer Institute, Fertilizer Canada, and The Nature Conservancy, who will guide interested parties in the implementation of a 4R Certification program in their region.

“The fertilizer industry recognizes the environmental challenges its products pose; however, we want to be part of the solution,” said Corey Rosenbusch, TFI President and CEO. “Fertilizer applications on millions of acres of farmland around the United States are under the management of highly-trained professionals who make 4R recommendations to farmers every day. The 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program is a way to ensure the industry continues to meet and exceed standards that help protect the environment.”

The voluntary 4R Certification Program is an effort by the North American agriculture industry to significantly reduce and prevent fertilizer from running off fields into the water supply. The program certifies fertilizer retailers and crop consultants – those who apply or make fertilizer recommendations – are following business practices in accordance with 4R Nutrient Stewardship principles. 4R practices incorporate using the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place. Program participants must go through annual, independent, third-party audits, which demonstrate their understanding, following and recommendation and implementation of 4R principles with their grower customer.

The 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification program was initially launched in the Western Lake Erie Basin in 2014 as a partnership between TFI, The Nature Conservancy, and the Ohio Agribusiness Association. A year later, Fertilizer Canada led the development a certification program for Ontario agribusiness. Programs are currently available in Florida, New York, and Ohio in the United States and in Ontario and Prince Edward Island in Canada. Other geographies working to implement the program are Indiana, Minnesota, and Missouri.

“Fertilizer Canada and TFI have worked together to develop a robust science-based certification program that recognizes the climate smart agricultural practices of North American agri retailers,” said Garth Whyte, President and CEO at Fertilizer Canada. “The Certification program further demonstrates our commitment to balancing farmer, industry, and advocacy goals to improve on-farm economics, crop productivity and fertilizer efficiency, while also being leaders in sustainable agriculture.”

An early champion of the 4R Nutrient Certification Program, The Nature Conservancy views the effort as an essential component of its Sustainable Agriculture strategy for North America. “The 4R framework is a proven, science-based approach that works for the farmer and for nature,” said Carrie Vollmer-Sanders, strategic engagement director for The Nature Conservancy in North America. “It helps farmers and agribusinesses ensure the long-term sustainability of crop production, while also protecting lands and waters for future generations.”

With a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding, the geographies recognize TFI as the global administrative agent for the 4R Certification Program and the Global NSCC and manager of the program in the United States. Fertilizer Canada develops and administers the 4R certification program for interested provinces. Coordination within the NSCC will create consistency amongst geographies, maintain program rigor, and ensure core auditable requirements are represented in each geographies’ standards. The Global NSCC will also provide guidance to new entities interested in developing programs in their geographies.

The NSCC also announced a newly redesigned 4Rcertified.org, which will serve as a central hub of information for interested geographies and retailers, current program participants, legislators, regulators, and the general public. The website includes information on the 4R Certification Program, as well as geography-specific resources and statistics.

Those interested in implementing the 4R Certification program in their geography should contact The Fertilizer Institute in the United States and Fertilizer Canada in Canada to assist in developing a program plan.

The 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification Program is governed and guided by the Global Nutrient Stewardship Certification Council – representatives from program geographies, The Fertilizer Institute, The Nature Conservancy, and Fertilizer Canada. The Global NSCC creates consistency among member geographies, maintains program rigor and ensures core auditable requirements are represented in each geographies’ standards. The 4R Certification Program is administered by The Fertilizer Institute. For more information, visit 4Rcertified.org.

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org.

The Fertilizer Institute Partners with EPA, USDA to Advance Next Generation Fertilizer Development and Use

WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2020 – Today, The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) joined with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in launching the Next Gen Fertilizer Challenges, which aims to accelerate the development of innovative fertilizer product technologies and to increase the use of existing enhanced efficiency fertilizers (EEFs) that maintain or increase crop yields and reduce environmental impacts to air, land, and water.

“Today’s fertilizer industry is built upon decades of innovation that have led us to a modern and efficient supply chain that has helped farmers increase yields while fine tuning their fertilizer use,” said Corey Rosenbusch, TFI President and CEO. “However, there is always improvement to be made, which is why we are excited to partner with the federal government and others in this challenge to spur the industry’s creativity in finding sustainable solutions for tomorrow’s fertilizer industry.”

Fertilizers facilitate the growth of crops at yields that provide sustained global food production. However, nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers applied without consideration of the principles of 4R Nutrient Stewardship (source, rate, time, and place) can have harmful effects on environment and human health. EEF and other new product technologies and formulations control fertilizer release or alter reactions that can increase nutrient uptake by the plant and reduce nutrient losses to the environment. EEFs and other related technologies can be an important addition to a conservation practice system that helps reduce row crop agriculture impacts on the environment, while maintaining or increasing agricultural productivity and profitability.

The EEF Partnership and Competition includes two challenges. The EEFs: Environmental and Agronomic Challenge and the Next Gen Fertilizer Innovation Challenge. Submission details are available on the EPA website and winners will be announced in December 2020 (Existing EEFs) and February 2020 (Next Gen Fertilizer Innovation).

  • EEFs: Environmental and Agronomic Challenge: This challenge aims to identify existing EEFs currently on or near-market that meet or exceed certain environmental and agro-economic criteria. Submissions are due October 30, 2020.
  • Next Gen Fertilizer Innovations Challenge: This challenge aims to identify concepts for novel technologies for fertilizers that can reduce the environmental effects from modern agriculture while maintaining or increasing crop yields. Submissions to the Next Gen Fertilizer Innovations Challenge are not near-market and may include EEFs and other product technologies used with or in combination with commercial fertilizers. Submissions are due November 30, 2020.

Winners of the EEFs: Environmental and Agronomic Challenge will receive scientific evaluation and recognition from EPA, USDA, and other partners and participants; advancement to a greenhouse trial; and, pending greenhouse trial results and available funds, advancement to field trials.

Winners of the Next Gen Fertilizer Innovations Challenge will receive a minimum award of $10,000 per winner from a total prize purse of $40,000 and be invited to a showcasing event, where winners of both challenges will share ideas and spark innovation.

An informational webinar is scheduled for September 24, 2020. Registration details are available on the EPA website.

EPA and USDA are working in collaboration with TFI, the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC), The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). The challenges were developed with input from stakeholders such as corn grower representatives, fertilizer companies, university researchers, and environmental and industry NGOs.

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org.

The Fertilizer Institute’s 4R Advocate Program Celebrates 10th Anniversary, Now Accepting 2021 4R Advocate Nominations

WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2020 –The Fertilizer Institute’s (TFI) 4R Advocate program is celebrating its 10th anniversary starting with the acceptance of nominations for the 2021 4R Advocate awards. This program recognizes farmers and fertilizer retailers for their commitment to sound nutrient stewardship using the 4Rs, or the right fertilizer source, at the right rate, the right time, and in the right place. Using 4R practices most applicable to their operations, farmers improve return on their nutrient inputs and decrease environmental impact.

To date, 90 4R Advocates from 22 states, representing nearly one-quarter million acres have been recognized. They grow crops that include apples, alfalfa, cabbage, collard greens, corn, cotton, hops, peanuts, rice, soybeans, strawberries, tomatoes, and more.

Advocate nominations are due no later than Friday, October 30, 2020. Details, materials, and entry forms for retailers and industry partners to nominate farmers are available online at nutrientstewardship.org/advocates/become-an-advocate/. Entry forms offer easy directions for farmers and retailers to document their efforts to apply the 4R Nutrient Stewardship principles and to chart results. Applicants can also read previous winners’ stories on the same website.

“Fertilizer retailers have long been trusted advisers for farmers. In doing so, they help farmers implement the 4Rs in their businesses year-round,” said Lara Moody, TFI’s Vice President, Stewardship and Sustainability. “From soil testing to pre-plant nutrient planning and in-season nutrient management and harvest, retailers work side by side with farmers to ensure optimal yields, economic return, and sound environmental practices.”

The 4R Advocate program highlights farmers’ partnerships with their retailers or certified agronomists throughout the year and demonstrates to the fertilizer industry, the agricultural community, and policymakers the real-world benefits the 4Rs deliver on the farm and in communities.

The 2021 4R Advocate winners will be announced in mid-December. They will participate in an all-expense-paid trip to the 2021 Commodity Classic, scheduled for March 4 through 6, in San Antonio, Texas. TFI will honor the 4R Advocate growers and nominating retailers during an awards banquet that takes place during the event. Special guests, media, and previous 4R Advocate award winners will also be invited.

As with 4R Advocates before them, the 2021 Advocates will spend the next year supporting TFI-sponsored 4R activities, as well as serve as 4R representatives within their businesses and communities during educational events and special presentations.

Raising awareness and adoption of 4R Nutrient Stewardship is a top priority for the fertilizer industry. The industry builds 4R awareness among growers and agricultural stakeholders at agricultural trade shows, field days, company visits, and other outreach opportunities.

As 4R Nutrient Stewardship management practices grow in popularity among farmers, the industry has gained additional support for the practices from allied industry groups such as Certified Crop Advisors, Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, and The Nature Conservancy.

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI serves its members through legislative, educational, technical and economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org.

Assumptions About Water Quality

Sometime in my youth, I learned about the wordplay that illustrates the danger of making assumptions. For the uninitiated, lets just say that the end-result turns the “assumer,” into the first three letters of the word. So, I try not to make assumptions – at least, not about important stuff. Things like cars stopping for pedestrians in crosswalks, strange dogs not biting – you get the picture. 

Still, not all assumptions are dangerous – in fact, some, such as those involved in scientific inquiry are downright necessary. From the simplest of science textbook experiments, to the work behind blockbuster medical breakthroughs, all science is based upon educated assumptions reached though observation, exploration, and testing. 

“Leveraging TFI’s new science resources, and  in-house scientific expertise, we examined the methods and assumptions within the EWG report and found that they contained significant discrepancies with published reports, peer-reviewed articles, and TFI’s Nutrient Use Geographic Information System (NuGIS) and Soil Test Summary programs.”

However, when the assumptions being made are about fertilizer and are inconsistent or just plain wrong, The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) will cry “foul.” Such is the case with a report that was recently released with great fanfare by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). The headline was hard to miss: “MANURE OVERLOAD: Manure Plus Fertilizer Overwhelms Minnesota’s Land and Water.” In its press release, EWG claimed that in almost all of Minnesota’s farm counties, “the combination of manure plus commercial fertilizer is likely to load too much nitrogen or phosphorus or both onto crop fields, threatening drinking water and fouling the state’s iconic lakes and rivers.” This problem, according to EWG, arises from the extraordinary expansion and intensification of both livestock and crop production in the state. 

Earlier in my career as a communication professional, I might have responded to EWG with a response that pointed to farmers as the original environmentalists. There’s nothing wrong with that argument, but from a scientific perspective, there isn’t any substance. Leveraging TFI’s new science resources, we can and did do better. Using in-house scientific expertise, we examined the methods and assumptions within the EWG report and found that they contained significant discrepancies with published reports, peer-reviewed articles, and TFI’s Nutrient Geographic Information System (NuGIS) and Soil Test Summary programs. These two programs are widely used by industry professionals to determine nutrient application and uptake rates and analyze soil test results across the country.   While the need to identify trends in nutrient balances is valid, that task is complex and must be undertaken with care. Leveraging TFI’s new science resources, and  in-house scientific expertise, we examined the methods and assumptions within the EWG report and found that they contained significant discrepancies with published reports, peer-reviewed articles, and TFI’s Nutrient Use Geographic Information System (NuGIS) and Soil Test Summary programs. These two programs are widely used by industry professionals to assess nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium balances (relationships of system inputs and outputs) for cropland and analyze soil test results across the country.

For example:

•    The EWG study doesn’t compare apples to apples. EWG’s crop nutrient removal and requirements were calculated based upon inconsistent timeframes. Fertilizer calculations were made for 2016 only, and manure for 2019. To properly compute nutrient balances, all inputs and outputs should be for the same time frame.

•    For 2014, EWG estimates total manure nitrogen applied and excreted in the state as much higher than NuGIS estimates. Excreted manure is 1.9 times as high, and applied is 3.6 times higher.

•    Nitrogen recoverability and loss assumptions differ greatly from those used in NuGIS and other reliable sources.

•    EWG assumes that crop requirements for phosphorus need not account for soil test levels. According to the Soil Test Summary, 47 percent of Minnesota soils were below critical levels in 2015.

•    We found a 50-fold error for the edible bean phosphorous removal coefficient. If calculated as presented, this amounts to an error of 68,000 tons of phosphorus.  

•    Manure application is not recognized. Within the five agricultural regions of the state, EWG assumes that fertilizer nitrogen is applied at the same rates to both manured and non-manured land.

•    Non-alfalfa hay and haylage typically receive an application of manure but are not considered in the EWG report. In 2019, 400,000 acres of non-alfalfa hay and haylage were harvested in Minnesota (USDA, NASS, 2020).

Having access to this information is just the start. We are engaging stakeholders – including EWG – to let them know about our concerns and make them aware of NUGIS as a resource. While different perspectives are critical, we aim to avoid future siloed efforts by engaging all stakeholders in the process.  For additional information on our work or on NuGIS, contact Foundation for Agronomic Research Director John Jones.