Agenda
Date: June 17, 2024
Time: 10:00 a.m - 2:30 p.m.
September 12, 2024
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is reminding farmers and commercial applicators that fall nitrogen fertilizer applications are restricted in some areas of the state. Under the MDA’s Groundwater Protection Rule, fall nitrogen fertilizer application is prohibited in vulnerable areas of Minnesota due to environmental concerns or risks. Areas with coarse-textured soils or areas above fractured bedrock or karst geology are the most vulnerable to nitrate-nitrogen loss and groundwater contamination.
The restrictions begin September 1 each year. Farmers are encouraged to check the online map prior to fall application to determine if their fields are subject to these restrictions. View a map of the vulnerable regions of the state. For more information on the restrictions outlined in the Groundwater Protection Rule, visit www.mda.state.mn.us/nfr.
In other areas of the state where fall nitrogen fertilizer application is allowed, the MDA advises farmers and commercial applicators to check soil temperatures and wait until the average soil temperatures reach 50 degrees F or cooler. Research shows that delaying fall application of anhydrous ammonia and urea fertilizer, as well as manure, helps prevent nitrogen loss, protects water quality, and ensures more nitrogen will be available for next season’s crop.
To assist tracking soil temperature, the MDA provides access to real-time, 4 and 6-inch soil temperatures at 70 locations across the state. View the interactive map to find the current 6-inch soil temperature and the past week’s history.
Although the soil temperature network was established to support application of nitrogen fertilizer, it is equally useful for those applying manure in the fall. University of Minnesota Extension recommends the same temperature delay (after soil temperature is below 50 degrees F) to prevent leaching losses.
For more information on the Six-inch Soil Temperature Network visit www.mda.state.mn.us/soiltemp.
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Media Contact
Allen Sommerfeld, MDA Communications
651-201-6185
Allen.Sommerfeld@state.mn.us
Pursuant to 1994 laws of Minnesota, Chapter 642, Section 8, the MDA, in consultation with the Board of Animal Health, esta
The AGRI Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant (SustAg) supports innovative on-farm research and demonstrations.
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The Emerging Farmers Working Group, established by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) during the 2020 legislative session (Chapter 89 Section 2 [17.055]), embodies the department's commitment to uplift and empower emerging farmers in Minnesota. The group's definition of emerging farmers encompasses a range of identities, including women, veterans, persons with disabilities, American Indian or Alaskan Natives, members of a community of color, young (35 and younger) farmers, Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, or asexual (LGBTQIA+) individuals, urban (reside in cities with a population over 5,000).
The formation of this group arises from the recognition that emerging farmers face distinct challenges and opportunities within the agricultural industry. Designed to address their specific needs and concerns, the Emerging Farmers' Working Group (EFWG) seeks to ensure that the voices of farmers are heard, and their contributions to Minnesota Agriculture are acknowledged. By engaging with a diverse array of collaborators, including emerging farmers, agricultural organizations, food hubs and regnerative agriculture arena. The group aims to recommend policies and programs that directly impact farmers that also experience limited land access or limited market access. This collaborative approach enables the identification of effective strategies and solutions.
The EFWG has emerged as a crucial advocate for emerging farmers in Minnesota. By providing dedicated support and generating ideas that benefit the broader agriculture community, the group strives to create a more inclusive and supportive agricultural landscape. Regular engagement with the MDA ensures ongoing collaboration, allowing the group to contribute valuable insights and recommendations.
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