2023 WLEB Conference: Soil Testing and Nutrient Management

Watch Clint Nester of Nester Ag discuss nutrient management, emphasizing the importance of soil testing and data-driven decisions in agriculture. Nester describes the company's background, involvement in water quality programs like H2Ohio, and commitment to the 4R program (right source, right time, right place, right rate).
Nester explains the significance of soil testing, emphasizing its role in making informed decisions, tracking trends, and aiding in record-keeping for potential future regulations. Nester Ag uses a zone approach for soil sampling, incorporating various data sources like soil information, drone imagery, and yield data to create a comprehensive blueprint for making recommendations.
Through real-world examples, Nester demonstrates the economic impact of soil testing on nutrient application rates. The presentation highlights scenarios where Nester Ag's approach resulted in significant cost savings for farmers, showcasing the importance of representative sampling and data analysis.
Nester concludes with a focus on adaptive management, acknowledging that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. He encourages farmers to utilize available tools like yield monitors and affordable soil testing to continually improve their nutrient management practices, emphasizing the need to keep chasing the target of sustainable and efficient agriculture.