Soil fertility research and education drive cost-effective crop production

South Dakota agriculture depends on efficient soil fertility management to remain profitable and environmentally sustainable. With more than 42 million acres in crop production, fertilizer represents one of the largest input costs for producers—accounting for roughly 27% of direct production expenses. Applying fertilizer at the correct rate, time and placement is critical to maximizing yields while avoiding unnecessary costs and environmental losses. 
 

In 2024, South Dakota State Extension conducted 14 on-farm soil fertility research trials to evaluate fertilizer rates, products, timing and placement methods. These trials served as real-world demonstrations that validated university fertilizer recommendations under local conditions. Results were shared through seven Extension education events reaching more than 620 farmers, agronomists, consultants and agency professionals. Additional outreach included two YouTube videos with more than 1,200 views and a new Extension fact sheet explaining nitrogen rate guideline methods used across the Midwest. 
 

Evaluation data showed that 80% of participants increased their knowledge of soil fertility recommendations, improving their ability to make informed fertilizer decisions. Updated potassium recommendations that incorporated soil properties and biological testing improved recommendation accuracy by approximately 6%, helping producers avoid unnecessary fertilizer applications. Increased knowledge among crop consultants and agronomists further amplified impact by enabling cost savings across multiple farming operations. 
 

These research and education efforts help producers reduce fertilizer inputs without sacrificing yield, lowering production costs and increasing farm profitability. At the same time, improved fertilizer efficiency reduces nitrogen and phosphorus losses to water resources, supporting environmental quality and human health. Collectively, SDSU Extension soil fertility programming strengthens farm resilience, enhances economic returns and supports long-term sustainability of South Dakota agriculture.

SDSU Extension | Project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) capacity funds; Hatch capacity funds.