Addressing Plant Nutrient Price Volatility in Mississippi Extension Programming.

Plant nutrient prices have been volatile with significant increases and decreases within a relatively short period due to numerous market-influencing factors. Extension nutrient management programming historically features soil testing and recommendations, nutrient application rate and source optimization, and environmental stewardship. As potential and/or real investment in crop nutrients fluctuated in a historic range over the 2007-2009 crop years, Mississippi State University Extension Service programming assisted clients in their decision process through multiple processes. Curriculum material included fertilizer price history and current situation, current market factors, plant nutrition requirements, soil test-based nutrient management strategies, viable alternatives, and fertilizer application efficiency. Background InService training on the issues and appropriate responses was provided to Extension county and regional faculty through an in-person event in August, 2008 and further supporting material was provided to field faculty in September, 2008. Radio, television, and print media products were used by state staff for direct information transfer to clients. A spreadsheet based nutrient source and cost decision support tool for pasture and forages systems was developed and provided to county and regional Extension staff.