Minnesota’s fifth annual Ag-Urban Partnership Forum brought together 60 experts Tuesday to discuss nitrogen management in agriculture. University of Minnesota educator Brad Carlson explained that most nitrogen loss occurs when soil organic matter releases nitrogen after harvest, not from fertilizer misapplication. Northfield farmer Mark Legvold demonstrated how cover crops and strip tilling can capture excess nitrogen while maintaining productivity. He’s now participating in research comparing standard application rates with soil-test guided approaches. State officials noted Minnesota’s soil health programs are oversubscribed, showing strong farmer interest in conservation. Despite improvements in surface water quality, the state remains far from its goal of 45% nitrogen reduction by 2040.
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