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.

"We're interested in keeping things as clean as possible on the farm," said Jared Coulter, who handles much of the day-to-day farm operations. "I feel like we're supposed to be stewards of God's creation, and part of that is keeping the environment clean."

This initiative represents a notable step toward integrating biofuels into sustainable agriculture outcomes, contributing to the overall goals of the program, which is supported by $157 million in combined funding from the USDA and corporate partners.

The Hutchisons use variable-rate nitrogen applications split up through the growing season to boost yields while reducing the potential for runoff.