MORE | Spring 2022

Assessing Organic Farm Nutrient Management

The United States Department of Agriculture provides requirements for a farm operation to become certified organic, but how do these regulations influence nutrient management? There is insufficient evidence to show the current regulations on nutrient sourcing and application are feasible and effective. An online survey was administered to owners and operators of organic farms. Survey respondents were offered a free soil test to better compare their practices and soil quality. Assessing the current nutrient management under organic regulations may reveal if they are feasible and environmentally sustainable. Early data suggest that organic farmers may often be overapplying this key resource.