9 Basic Components Of A Nutrient Management Plan

A nutrient management plan will help you manage commercial fertilizer and animal manure input costs. It will also help you do your part to improve your state’s surface water quality. A nutrient management plan for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) should consider all potential sources of nutrients including, but not limited to:

• N contributions from legumes and crop rotations;
• Animal manure and organic by-products;
• Waste water;
• Commercial fertilizer;
• Soil nutrient availability; and
• Irrigation water.

The following components should be included in a nutrient management plan:

1. An aerial photograph or map, and a soil map of the field.

2. A current and/or planned crop production sequence or crop rotation.

3. Results of soil, plant, water, manure or organic by-product sample analysis.

4. Realistic yield potentials for crops in the rotation.

5. A quantification (listing) of all nutrient sources.

6. Recommended nutrient rates, timing, form and method of application including incorporation timing for the time period of the plan.

7. Location of designated sensitive areas or resources and the associated nutrient management restriction.

8. Guidance for implementation, operation, maintenance, recordkeeping, and complete field-by-field nutrient budget for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for the rotation or crop sequence.

9. A statement that the plan was developed based on current standards and any applicable Federal, state, or local regulations or policies; that changes in any of these requirements may necessitate a revision of the plan.

Source: “Nutrient Management Plan,” Iowa State University, University Extension