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In recent years, we have seen a rise in soil acidification.  Today's episode discusses the causes, signs, and effects of soil acidification, as well as strategies for mitigation, adaptation, and prevention (MAP). Joining Yara's Dr. Rob Mikkelsen is Dr. Clain Jones, renowned Montana State University Extension soil fertility specialist and Dr. Manbir Rakkar, Assistant Professor at Ohio State University who help us understand the significance of soil pH changes.   Soil acidification can be caused by natural factors such as high rainfall and unbuffered rock, as well as human activities like nitrogen fertilizer application. Signs of soil acidification include stunted plant growth, nutrient deficiencies, herbicide damage, and increased fungal disease occurrence. Regular soil testing is crucial for monitoring soil pH and detecting acidification. Alternative methods for soil pH testing, such as pH sticks and remote sensing technology, can also be used. Preventing soil acidification can involve improving nitrogen use efficiency and incorporating legume crops or perennials into cropping systems. Mitigation strategies include applying lime and changing crop rotation. It is important to manage soil acidification to maintain soil and plant health and prevent long-term yield losses. Variable rate lime application and site-specific monitoring of pH can help optimize lime usage.    Check out the video, "Acidification of Cropland Soil: Impact, Causes, and Solutions" that Dr. Jones created that helps explain the soil acidification issue. Read the article, "The Implication of Soil Acidity and Management Options for Sustainable Crop Production in Africa"

This episode explores the history, development, and sustainability of the potash industry. We are joined by Dr. Davide Ciceri, who currently leads innovative R&D at AgroPlantae, Inc. and Yara’s Director of Agronomy, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen. We begin with the origins of potash, which can be traced back to ancient methods of extracting potassium compounds from wood ashes. The conversation then delves into the development of the potash fertilizer industry, highlighting the work of chemist von Liebig and the commercial mining of potash in Germany. The different methods of potash mining, including underground mining and solution mining, are discussed. The conversation also explores the sustainability of potash resources and the potential for alternative sources of potassium. The importance of considering the right source of potassium for specific crops and soil conditions is emphasized. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the historical significance of potash and the ongoing research and development in the industry. Dr. Ciceri wrote an insightful article, “Historical and Technical Developments of Potassium Resources.” Here are the links to our other episodes on the history of fertilizers: - The Alchemy of Air with Author Thomas Hager - The History and Future of Phosphorus for Plants - An Unsung Hero: Norman Borlaug Here is a beautiful photo of the potash evaporation ponds near Moab, Utah    

In this episode, the hosts discuss the benefits and challenges of using liquid fertilizers. Dr. Karl Wyant, Director of Agronomy at Nutrien, and Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Director of Agronomy at Yara, explain how liquid fertilizers offer more flexibility in creating customized nutrient formulations tailored to specific crop needs. They emphasize the importance of understanding compatibility and safety when blending and handling liquid fertilizers. We discuss the concept of suspension and solution fertilizers and discuss the differences between them. Highlighed is the significance of pre-planning, jar testing, and using resources like compatibility tables and Yara's Tankmix to avoid mixing issues. They provide insights on storing and maintaining liquid fertilizers and discuss future innovations in the field. Takeaways Liquid fertilizers offer flexibility in creating customized nutrient formulations for specific crops. Understanding compatibility and safety is crucial when blending and handling liquid fertilizers. Jar testing is an important tool to predict compatibility and avoid mixing issues. Proper storage and maintenance of liquid fertilizers are essential to ensure their effectiveness. Links: Karl's recent article in Fertilizer International Magazine, "Liquid Fertilizers - Compatibility and Safety" Karl mentioned the Fluid Fertilizer Foundation as a resource Yara's Tankmix to avoid mixing issues Chapters 00:00 Introduction to liquid fertilizers 04:30 Challenges of liquid fertilizer mixing 06:44 Difference between suspension and solution fertilizers 10:23 Importance of knowing suspension and solution fertilizers 12:13 The importance of jar testing 18:36 Storage and maintenance of liquid fertilizers 21:37 Storing liquid fertilizers over the winter 23:40 Maintenance and cleaning of fertilizer tanks 26:38 Future innovations in liquid fertilizers 31:41 Conclusion and holiday wishes

In the dynamic world of crop production, staying ahead means understanding not just the 'how' but the 'why' behind effective agronomics. And that's exactly what we're unpacking in this episode. Foliar nutrition is more than just a trend; it’s a pivotal part of modern agriculture, offering targeted, efficient, and quick nutrient delivery to your crops. We'll explore the science behind foliar feeding, how it complements traditional soil nutrition, its role in maximizing crop health and yield.  how folier applied nutrition can help plants in drought conditions To help us understand this we have two experts: Dr. Rob Mikkelsen, Yara North America's Director of Agronomy and Delaine Madziak, Regional Market Development Manager for Western Canada.  They are going to relate real-world case studies, and practical tips that you, as a grower or agronomist, can apply in your fields.

How can furthering the practices of the 4R nutrient management, transform not only agricultural productivity but also contribute significantly to environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation?  Dr. Tom Bruulsema, Chief Scientist at Plant Nutrition Canada, and Yara’s Director Of Agronomy, Dr. Rob Mikkelsen are back with us to talk about the advancement of the 4Rs of Nutrient Stewardship.   In addition to Dr. Bruulsema's many jobs, he is also a committee member at the Scientific Panel on Responsible Plant Nutrition or SPRPN. In a previous episode with Tom, we talked about the ambitious mandate by the Canadian government to cut fertilizer-related greenhouse emissions by 30% by the year 2030. We talked about the critical role of the  R's of nutrient stewardship (rate, source, timing, and placement) in curbing emissions and enhancing nitrogen use efficiency.  In this episode, we will explore why there's a pressing need to further the 4Rs. We'll discuss how the 4R concept has been integrated into agricultural conversations worldwide and examine its impact over the past decade in North America and globally.  We'll also address the idea proposed by Paul Fixen in an earlier podcast about adding more "R's" to the existing framework.   

This episode is a part 2 from last week, where Dr. Rob Mikkelsen met up with some notable soil scientists at the American Society of Agronomy conference. In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the life and career of Dr. John Ryan, a distinguished international soil scientist with an extraordinary background. Born and raised in Ireland, Dr. Ryan's journey in the realm of semi-arid agriculture is as fascinating as it is impactful.  Dr. Ryan, holding degrees from University College Dublin and the University of Arizona, and a Certified Professional Soil Scientist, takes us through his remarkable journey from the green landscapes of Ireland to the arid environments of Arizona, Lebanon, Morocco, and Syria. He shares the unique challenges and rewards of working in these diverse climates, emphasizing his work with smallholder farms in resource-limited settings.  Throughout the episode, Dr. Ryan discusses how improving agricultural productivity can transform the lives of families and communities, especially in semi-arid zones. He sheds light on the significant barriers to enhancing farm productivity in these regions, including climate change, erratic rainfall, and political instability. Dr. Ryan also reflects on his professional contributions, expressing pride in the international service awards he's received from notable societies like ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, and being named a Fellow in all three. His insights on the future of farming under challenging conditions are both enlightening and thought-provoking. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in agriculture, environmental science, and the real-world impact of scientific research. Join us as we explore the journey of a man who went from an Irish kid to a global influencer in the field of soil science and agriculture.

Dr. Rob Mikkelsen recently attended the American Society of Agronomy Conference. He reunited with many of his colleagues and we have the chance to bring two international influencers onto our podcast over the next couple weeks. In this week's podcast, we delve into the heart of modern agriculture with Dr. Fernando Garcia, a renowned expert in soil fertility and crop nutrition. Dr. Garcia is a Free Professor at the College of Agricultural Sciences of the National University of Mar del Plata, Argentina, and a consultant for various agricultural organizations, shares his valuable insights into ecologically intensified cropping systems and their impact on global agriculture.  Some of the topics we covered are  The Four Pillars of Agriculture: no-till farming, crop rotation, cover crops, and balanced nutrition. Dr. Garcia’s perspective on how these pillars contribute to sustainable agriculture. Comparative Agriculture: Argentina vs. North America.   Dr. Garcia outlines key challenges in modern agriculture and discusses innovative approaches and technologies in addressing these challenges with an emphasis on the importance of adapting to climate change and environmental pressures. Exploration of programs and strategies used by Argentinian farmers and how these practices can be examples for farmers globally. The role of government and private sector in supporting these initiatives. Make sure you check out next week's episode with Dr. John Ryan

In this episode of the Yara Crop Nutrition podcast, we delve into the world of crop management and dairy operations with guests Emmaline Long from Yara North America and Dave DeGolyer from the Western New York Crop Management Association. Over 35 minutes, they discuss the critical role of 4R Nutrient Stewardship in dairy farms, including the development and importance of  Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMP) for dairies, and the unique factors such as manure management that affect these operations. Dave also sheds light on his organization's journey to 4R Nutrient Stewardship Certification, detailing the process, importance, and impact on their business. 

In this episode of the Yara's Crop Nutrition Podcast, Scott and Dr. Rob Michelson discuss the Canadian government's mandate to reduce fertilizer-related greenhouse emissions by 30% by 2030. They are joined by Dr. Tom Bruulsema, the chief scientist at Plant Nutrition Canada, to delve into the evidence supporting the four R's of nutrient stewardship and their role in reducing emissions and improving nitrogen use efficiency. The conversation covers the importance of finding a balance between reducing emissions and maintaining high crop yields, the use of nitrification inhibitors to reduce nitrous oxide emissions, and the need to consider all four R's (rate, source, timing, and placement) in fertilizer management. Dr. Bruulsema highlights the economic benefits for farmers and the collaborative efforts between the government and industry to support the adoption of sustainable practices. The episode concludes with a call for continued collaboration and innovation to achieve lasting gains in nutrient stewardship. Tune in to gain insights into Canada's efforts to achieve emission reduction targets while maximizing productivity and sustainability in agriculture.    

In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of soil science and agronomy with Dr. Newell Kitchen, who has recently published an eye-opening research paper titled "A New Perspective When Examining Maize Fertilizer Nitrogen Use Efficiency, Incrementally." We'll explore the key insights from his groundbreaking work and how they can transform the future of farming. Introduction to Dr. Newell Kitchen and his illustrious career in soil science and agronomy. History of the USDA-Agricultural Research Service Where we've come in nitrogen management over the past 30 years Recommended Resources Article,  "A New Perspective When Examining Maize Fertilizer Nitrogen Use Efficiency, Incrementally" USDA Agriculture Research Service Website Newell's consulting business is Agronomic, Geologic & Environmental Services    

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Dr. Grant Cardon, a professor and Extension Soils Specialist at Utah State University's Department of Plants, Soils & Climate. With years of expertise in soil, water, and nutrient management in the Western U.S., Dr. Cardon is a leading authority in his field. Today, Yara's Dr. Rob Mikkelsen joins in the conversation where we tackle a question many have about soil testing: "Why do different soil labs yield varying results from the same samples?" Dr. Cardon will guide us through the importance of accurate soil testing, the variables that cause these discrepancies, and how to ensure you're getting the most reliable data for your soil analyses. Whether you're an agronomist, a grower, or simply interested in the science behind the soil, this episode offers invaluable insights. Soil Science Society of America's North American Proficiency Testing. Check out Dr. Cardon's blog, Dirt Diggers Digest article on this subject.

We recently did a podcast episode on the creation of the 4Rs of Nutrient stewardship with Dr. Paul Fixen.  This was a simple to understand management strategy to improve nutrient use efficiency and on-farm profits.   Today we are going to expand on this strategy and talk about how the evolution of farming has changed and how we can become more precise in our execution of the 4Rs and see improved results.