Free Workshop Series on 4R Fertilizer BMPs

The Farming 4R Watershed Workshop Series Part 2:

Implementing Beneficial Management Practices (BMPs) on the Farm

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Technical Nutrient Stewardship Workshop:

9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Lunch and Networking Session:12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m.

Panel: Community Leaders Supporting Agriculture:1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

Technical Workshop Objectives:

The objective of the technical session is to provide producers, retailers, and crop advisors with practical instruction on implementing fertilizer beneficial management practices (BMPs) on the farm using the 4R approach. The 4R concept guides farmers in using the Right fertilizer source; at the Right rate; at the Right time; and in the Right place. The BMPs covered during the workshop for improving fertilizer use efficiency and sustainability will include:

1. The case for annual soil testing and interpreting/applying soil test results.
2. Manure application techniques, testing and interpretation using a 4R approach.
3. Information sessions on alternative approaches to annual broadcasting of phosphorus in the fall (seed-placed phosphorus, timing application etc.); and
4. The 4R approach and split fertilizer application, including the case for sidedress or topdress application of nitrogen when feasible.

Panel: Supporting Agriculture Session Objectives:

The afternoon session of the workshop is open to all, but is particularly geared towards Ontario conservation authorities, agricultural media outlets, agriculture or water research consortiums, federal/provincial agriculture representatives, and any other NGOs focused on sustainable agriculture or conservation. The topics of discussion for this session will include:

1. An overview by Clyde Graham of the Canadian Fertilizer Institute and Dan Heaney of Random Cross Consulting of the newly launched 4R nutrient stewardship online training course, a new educational resource offered through CFI's GrowZone e-Learning portal. The presentation will include an outline of the course contents and benefits of participation, such as access to technical expertise and the chance to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) through the Canadian Certified Crop Advisor Association.
2. An unveiling of CFI's new "4R Advocate" recognition and awards program for Canada. An initiative to recognize agricultural retailers and producers that are leading the way when it comes to implementing 4R nutrient stewardship on the farm. The winners, to be announced in December 2012, will receive an expense-paid trip to the Farm Tech Conference in Edmonton.
3. A presentation from Colin Siren of Ipsos Marketing on the Canadian public perception of agriculture; and
4. An open panel discussion on some of the barriers to adoption of nutrient management BMPs as well as new strategies for engaging agricultural producers and the fertilizer industry in sustainability