February 21, 2017 | ShareThis

Farmers today have a lot to think about when it comes to applying fertilizer. When should it be applied, how much should be applied and where it should be applied are just a few complex, but crucial, decisions they have to make. At Mosaic, we think it's important for farmers to understand not only how their fertilizer application decisions effect crop yields but also how fertilizer impacts our environment, which is why we're dedicated to educating farmers and retailers about the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework.

4R Nutrient Stewardship encompasses fertilizer best management practices to achieve cropping system goals, including environmental protection. To achieve those goals, the 4Rs framework incorporates the Right nutrient source, at the Right rate, at the Right time, and in the Right place.

The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) recognized five farmers and their retailer partners, all of which are Mosaic customers, as 2017 4R Advocates. The 4R Advocate program recognizes individuals who are leading the way when it comes to implementing the 4R's of Nutrient Stewardship on their fields. These farmers showcase real world examples of how successfully implementing the 4Rs can increase yields and profits, while reducing the impact on the environment.

Get to know the 4R Advocate Farmers and their Retailer Partners

Kyle Brase of Brase Farms, and Joe Huebener, Agronomist at CHS

Kyle Brase and his family own a 3,500 acre, fifth-generation, family farm in Edwardsville, Illinois. Together, Kyle and Joe use innovative methods to develop top-notch nutrient management plans that help increase yields under the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework. In fact, Kyle was implementing 4R methods on his farm before the program was recognized by the fertilizer industry.

Grower Grant Storm from Dahinda, Illinois, and Adam Dexter, Crop Specialist from West Central FS

The Storm family farm is a fourth generation farm in Dahinda, Illinois. With his family, Grant manages 5,600 acres of corn, soybean, wheat and pasture, along with a small livestock operation. Sustainability and nutrient management have always played an important role in Grant's management. Working together with Adam, the two identify ways to incorporate the best available science and technology to drive greater yields in the fields.

Lynn Fahrmeier from Wellington, Missouri, and his retail partner Scott Bergsieker from MFA Incorporated

Lynn Fahrmeier and his family run a 2,300 acre century farm that has been in the family for over 115 years. They also have 200 sheep, a 40 cattle herd and honey bees. Continuing the family tradition, Lynn is constantly looking for ways to push conventional thinking by innovating with new technologies and practices to improve soil health for future generations of the Fahrmeier family.

Gary Reeder from Palmetto, Florida, and Dennis Coleman, Crop Advisor at Crop Production Services

Gary Reeder runs a 1,000 acre tomato farm near Duette, Florida. A fourth-generation farmer, Gary has been farming for 40 years and is a dedicated 4R advocate in Manatee County. Because of his passion for farming, water conservation and nutrient stewardship practices, he was recently named Outstanding Agriculturist and was inducted into the Manatee County Agricultural Hall of Fame.

Dave Legvold from Northfield, Minnesota, and his crop advisor Ken Thomas, Agronomy Manager at Farmers Mill and Elevator

Dave Legvold considers his 800 acre farm to be a learning laboratory for local college students to conduct soil research. Dave believes that by helping students learn about soil health and the 4Rs, the heart of the soil will remain preserved and healthy for future generations. Dave was recognized by the Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton for his innovative and persistent conservation efforts.

Congratulations to the 4R Advocate winners! And thank you for your commitment to using the 4R principles to increase yields, improve soils and decrease fertilizer's environmental footprint.

The Mosaic Company published this content on 21 February 2017 and is solely responsible for the information contained herein.
Distributed by Public, unedited and unaltered, on 21 February 2017 19:44:11 UTC.

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