News

Dollars available for soil testing in Lake Erie basin

The Michigan Department of Agriculture has announced a soil testing reimbursement program for farmers in the Western Lake Erie Basin following recommended nutrient management practices. 

Director Gary McDowell says farmers will be able to test and incorporate new technologies to address phosphorus loading in Lake Erie.  He says precise soil analysis can result in more efficient fertilizer use.

The Soil Testing to Reduce Agriculture Nutrient Delivery or STRAND program promotes the use of grid or zone sampling, variable rate applications, yield monitors and upgrades that help farmers with nutrient placement.

Funds are possible through an EPA Great Lakes Restoration Initiative grant and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.