Implementating Best Managment Practices in Corn Production to Protect Water Quality.

Implementating Best Managment Practices in Corn Production to Protect Water Quality Patrick Troy1 and Joel Love Driven by the proposed 2016 adoption of the Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP) for the Suwannee River Basin, strong emphasis is being placed on irrigation and nutrient management in the area. All farmers in the region will be encouraged by the Florida Department of Consumer Services (FDACS) to enroll in Best Management Practices (BMPs) with a goal of reducing the overall nutrient footprint from farming (DEP 2016). Using a varietal trial of 12 advanced corn hybrids, a stacked-package of 8 BMPs were implemented in Live Oak, Florida, to prove the concept that both high yield and conservation can be achieved simultaneously. The 8 practices included covercropping, soil sampling, poultry litter, crop nutrient budgeting, soil moisture sensors, ear leaf tissue sampling, side dress fertilizer, and pivot nozzel upgrade/calibration. We achieved an average 220 bpa while statwide grain corn production average only 122 bpa (NASS 2012). With 198lbs of N inputs, we recorded an efficiency conversion ratio of 111% . Local farmers often apply twice as much nitrogen (conversion ratios 60-80%), leading to nitrate leaching into the aquifer. This trial proves high yields are possible with proper attention to the source, timing, rate and placement of water and nutrients. Additonally, water savings of approximately 8% were recorded through close monitoring of volumentric water content with a Sentek TDR probe. Full implementation of these practices allowed for approximately $95 saved/acre. As BMAPS are fully implemented, such corn production practices may become mandatory. Quantifying the economics and environmental services now will encourage early adoption and greater financial success. 1 Contact Information: Patrick Troy, Regional Specialized Agent Row Crops, Suwannee Valley Agricultural Extension Center, Live Oak, FL, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. 386/362.1725. ptroy@ufl.edu