The Hutchisons' use of variable-rate nitrogen applications onto crops are split up through the growing season to boost yields while reducing the potential for runoff. To further protect water quality, they practice mulch and strip-till practices, have installed grassed waterways and buffers, and have completed wetland restoration projects and forest management.

Nick Preissler is a realist regarding the future of nitrogen use, knowing that restrictions could happen at some point. That’s why his goal is to grow profitable corn using 0.5 pounds nitrogen per bushel—cutting old recommendations in half.

The trial resulted in a significant difference in yield response to the varied nitrogen rates. A rate of 54 gallons of 28% UAN per acre led to an increase of an average of 5.1 bushels per acre compared to a rate of 37 gallons of 28% UAN per acre. However, the higher rate of nitrogen incurred a relative loss of $28.05 per acre.