The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) invites producers to hear about the latest nutrient management research and techniques at a Nutrient Efficiency and Management Conference on Feb. 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Rochester Event Center in Rochester, MN.

Scott Murell of the International Plant Nutrient Institute will kick off the meeting with a discussion of the basics of nutrient interactions and how they affect the efficient use of nutrients. He will also provide a big-picture view of efficient nutrient use and stewardship trends in the Midwest.

Dennis Frame of Wisconsin Discovery Farms will follow with a discussion of water quality runoff research from a variety of crop and livestock farms in Wisconsin. Tim Radatz with the Minnesota Agricultural Water Resources Coalition will provide updates on the newly formed Minnesota Discovery Farms Program. The morning session will wrap up with a panel discussion of innovative and progressive management ideas from local farmers and crop consultants.

The slate of afternoon speakers will cover topics such as key manure management practices, precision conservation, optimizing phosphorus recommendations, soil-test phosphorus trends in Minnesota, effectiveness of nitrogen additives and vertical tillage. Other topics and information will be made available throughout the day.

There are no fees to attend and lunch will be provided. Participants are encouraged to preregister online at www.mda.state.mn.us/, or call 651-201-6141. For more information, contact MDA’s Kevin Kuehner at 507-765-4530.