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UW Extension offers seminar on soil health
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MONROE - Farmers and agronomists in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois will have the opportunity to learn about the newest research-based information on no-till cropping systems, management practices for improving nitrogen fertilizer efficiency and the efficacy of nitrogen inhibitors on corn and wheat by attending a University of Wisconsin Extension Crops and Soils Seminar on Feb. 18.

The seminar will run from 1 to 3:30 p.m. and will be held in the lower level multi-purpose rooms at the Green County UW Extension office at 2841 6th St., Monroe.

The program will feature three presentations by UW Extension specialists in soil science and fertility. Francisco Arriaga, soils management specialist with the University of Wisconsin, will give a presentation entitled "No-Till Farming and Soil Health Management." Arriaga will discuss the benefits of no-till cropping systems along with management practices for dealing with nutrient stratification issues related to no-till cropping systems. The importance of soil organic matter and management practices that improve soil health also will be covered.

Carrie Laboski, UW Extension soil and fertility and nutrient management specialist, will be the other featured speaker on the program. Laboski will discuss "Tips for Nitrogen Fertilizer Efficiency and Understanding When to use Nitrogen Inhibitors." With low grain prices, growers are looking for areas to reduce costs and/or increase the efficacy of inputs. Nitrogen fertilizer is a major cost in many corn and wheat budgets. Using the correct amount, timing of the application and keeping the nitrogen available for plant use will be reviewed in this presentation. Laboski will address the proper use and efficacy of nitrogen inhibitors in cropping systems. Both speakers also will address the use of gypsum (drywall products) to improve soil health and fertility.

This program is free of charge and is open to farmers and agronomists in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. Agronomists will be able to earn two-and-a-half hours of continuing education credits by attending the seminar. To register for the program or to receive more information about the seminar, call the UW Extension office in Green County at 608-328-9440 or email mark.mayer@ces.uwex.edu Registrations for the meeting are due by Feb. 15.