FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, January 25, 2012

CONTACT: Michael Schommer, Communications Director
651.201.6629, Michael.schommer@state.mn.us

MDA invites farmers to February 15 nutrient management conference in Morton

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) invites farmers to hear about the latest research and techniques at the Nutrient Efficiency and Management Conference set for Wednesday, February 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel in Morton.

The conference will bring together agricultural supply and service consultants, growers, university extension specialists, crop advisers, researchers, and local, state and federal government officials. Continuing education credits will also be available for Certified Crop Advisers.

Nutrient efficiency will be the focus of this year’s conference. With volatile fertilizer prices and increased commodity prices, this will be an excellent opportunity to hear from the experts and network with others interested in maximizing productivity while minimizing cost and risk.

Topics will include basics of soil phosphorous, soil test interpretation, evaluation of fertilizer additives, drainage technology research, nutrient and water quality research, high production efficiency, and limits on banded fertilizer. A farmer and crop consultant panel will provide discussion about innovative on farm nutrient management. A variety of other topics and information will be made available through displays.

Sponsors for the event include the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, the Minnesota Ag Water Resource Center, University of Minnesota Extension, Minnesota Crop Production Retailers, Minnesota Independent Crop Consultants, Minnesota Corn Growers, Minnesota Soybean Growers, Southern Minnesota Beet Sugar Cooperative, Agrium, Mosaic and Nutra-Flo.

There are no fees to attend and lunch will be provided to register participants. Pre-registration is encouraged, and can be done online at http://www.mda.state.mn.us/nutrientconference.aspx or by calling 507-752-7036. For more information contact the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Brian Williams at 507-665-6806.

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