2024 4R Technology Review Field Day Highlights Latest Advances in Nutrient Management

75 attendees from various sectors of agriculture gathered for the 4R Technology Review Field Day at Ohio State University's Secrest Arboretum in Wooster, Ohio on August 28. Agricultural retailers, researchers, farmers, and others attended to explore the latest advancements in nutrient management, water quality and conservation efforts, and to experience hands-on field demonstrations.

The event featured a diverse lineup of presentations and field demonstrations, including:

• Robert Mullen, Heritage Cooperative; Mark Fritz, NRCS ACES; and Greg LaBarge, OSU Extension, discussed the complexities of phosphorus movement over the past 15 years and strategies to mitigate phosphorus transport from agricultural settings.

• Lyndsey Lawlis, Ag-Pro Companies of Ohio, and John Fulton, Ohio State University, highlighted the John Deere Manure Sensing capabilities with the HarvestLab 3000 NIR sensor and its impact on nutrient management optimization.

• Mercedes Gearhart, AdvanSix, explored the role of sulfur in soybean production, focusing on how sulfur aids in nitrogen fixation and the principles of sulfur fertilization within the 4R framework.

• Adam Sauder, ROGO Ag, and Jodi Jaynes, Suretech Laboratories, delved into the ROI from robotic soil sampling, showcasing how enhanced sampling accuracy and laboratory testing impact nutrient placement and farm profitability.

• Glen Arnold, Ohio State University Extension, presented ongoing research on using liquid manure with growing crops to maximize nutrient use on the farm.

• Robert Mullen, Heritage Cooperative, shared insights on the legalities, opportunities and challenges of using drones in agriculture, including regulatory considerations, data acquisition and practical applications.

The event was hosted by the Ohio AgriBusiness Association.

The agriculture industry remains committed to improving water quality, retaining nutrients where they are needed, and reducing runoff into waterways in Ohio. Events like the 4R Technology Review Field Day provide an opportunity to share current research and technology to continuously strengthen that commitment.