Evaluation methods for a combined research and extension program used to address starter phosphorus fertilizer use for corn in New York

摘要

Ketterings, Q. M., Czymmek, K. J. and Swink, S. N. 2011. Evaluation methods for a combined research and extension program used to address starter phosphorus fertilizer use for corn in New York. Can. J. Soil Sci. 91: 467-477. Since there is no substitute for phosphorus (P), judicious use of P fertilizer is needed to protect water quality, world P reserves and farm economics. In 2001-2003, 78 on-farm corn (Zea mays L.) P trials were conducted on New York State (NY) dairy farms as part of a statewide, integrated (research and extension), outcome-focused project. The data showed fertilizer P could be eliminated or reduced to less than 28 kg P205 ha(-1) for fields very high or high in soil test P. respectively. We conducted: (1) case study P fertilizer management evaluations using 30 NY, and (2) a producer survey using a postcard evaluation tool, to determine project outcome potential and farmer intent to change P management. The two impact evaluations showed (1) P use could be reduced to 17 kg of P205 ha(-1) or less with soil-test based decision making, and (2) 81% of producers were likely to change P use in future years. Statewide P fertilizer sales decreased from 12 603 Mg (8.6 kg ha(-1)) in 2000 to 10 092 tons (6.8 kg ha(-1)) in 2007, a 20% reduction in P use. These results reflect the effectiveness of the impact evaluation tools and of outcome-based projects where extension and research are integrated and farmers and farm advisors are key participants in the design and implementation of the project.