Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is urging corn growers to take advantage of the newly launched Nitrogen Fertilizer Application Consultation Tool (N-FACT) to optimize nutrient management this growing season. Developed by the Iowa Nitrogen Initiative at Iowa State University (ISU), N-FACT provides field-specific recommendations to help farmers balance productivity, environmental stewardship, and input costs.
Unveiled today at the Iowa Ag Expo, N-FACT integrates thousands of data points from extensive field trials conducted across Iowa. The tool considers key variables such as field location, weather conditions, residual soil nitrogen, estimated planting dates, and market prices for inputs and commodities. With over 21,000 potential nitrogen rate scenarios, it offers a tailored approach to fertilizer application.
Nitrogen fertilizer represents a significant expense for Iowa corn growers. N-FACT equips farmers with data-driven insights to enhance nitrogen use efficiency, reduce costs, and improve land management. The tool is freely available to all Iowa farmers at n-fact.ag.
The Iowa Nitrogen Initiative continues to expand its research, with additional field trials planned for the 2025 growing season. Farmers using variable rate nitrogen application and combine yield monitors are encouraged to participate. Enrollment is open year-round, and interested growers can contact Melissa Miller, Iowa Nitrogen Initiative Project Director, for more details.
ISU will update N-FACT as new research emerges, ensuring the tool remains a valuable resource for sustainable and cost-effective nitrogen management. The project is funded by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the Iowa Legislature, and a coalition of public and private partners. Learn more at n-fact.ag.
