Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: October 29, 2004
Contact:
Agricultural nutrient management "school" in Ashland
(RICHMOND, VA) - The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation's next four-day Nutrient Management Training School is December 6-9, 2004, in Ashland, Virginia. Anyone interested in learning more about nutrient management plan writing may attend; individuals taking the DCR exam to become certified planners should attend.
The training is well-attended by consultants, sales people and agency staff working with nutrient management and crop production; however, farmers may find the courses allow them a better understanding of exactly how plans are developed.
That understanding enables them to help make customized plans for their operations, which are easier to implement and help operators with compliance in situations where a plan is part of an operational permit.
Phosphorus management is an issue facing poultry operations with Virginia Pollution Abatement permits. Where previous nutrient management plans indicated recommendations for phosphorus, these are now requirements. The training school addresses this process through a case study and "hands on" problem solving.
Nutrient management remains an important decision for farmers. When considering types and quantities of materials they need to supply nutrients to their crops, the use of soil test results and realistic yield goals, essentials in nutrient management planning, provide a sound agronomic approach in this decision process.
For both grain and animal operations, nutrient management plans guide farmers
so they get the most from every pound of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium
in which they invest.
Training school classes run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day. The $90 registration
fee covers all handouts, supporting material and refreshments. Contact Susan
Townsend at (804) 443-6752 for a registration form.
For more information about the school and how it may help you, contact David Kindig at (804) 371-8095 or email david.kindig@dcr.virginia.gov. In most cases, participants who cannot attend all days can choose days that would provide them the greatest benefit.
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