The Dirt: an eKonomics podKast
An eKonomics podKast featuring down-and-dirty agronomic science to help grow crops and bottom lines. Inspired by nutrien-eKonomics.com, farming’s go-to information resource, hear Mike break down the latest crop nutrition research and news— helping farmers make better business decisions through actionable insights. Let’s dig in.
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Maximize Your Crop Per Drop: On-Farm Water Conservation
11/18/2025
Maximize Your Crop Per Drop: On-Farm Water Conservation
In this episode of The Dirt, we head to Grace, Idaho, to talk with fifth-generation farmer Ryan Christensen about conserving one of agriculture's most valuable resources: water. Ryan shares how his family's farm is using technology, conservation tillage and smart irrigation practices to make every drop of water count. We dig into the importance of water management in the high desert, the practices that have delivered the greatest results on Ryan's farm and the real benefits of implementing water-saving strategies. Tune in to hear the lessons that Ryan has learned on his operation, from the advantages of reduced tillage to the value of variable-rate irrigation, and how small changes can make a big impact on crop performance and overall efficiency. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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The Immeasurable Impact of Extension Services
11/11/2025
The Immeasurable Impact of Extension Services
Extension services play a key role in educating communities across the United States. But what do they actually do? Find out with host Mike Howell and guest Dr. Angus Catchot, the director of extension at Mississippi State University, to explore what extension services really are, what they do, and why they are indispensable to our communities. Dr. Catchot explains how extension services turn complex research into practical insights that help farmers, families and the community. Explore their key areas of interest, from agriculture to community development, and how their various programs benefit counties across the United States. You'll also hear about MSU Extension's new initiatives, like Walk Mississippi, and uncover the challenges of funding the people who make these programs happen. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Other links mentioned in this episode: Row Crop Short Course from Mississippi State Extension: Equine Assisted Therapy Programs: Mississippi State University Extension Website: Facebook: Instagram: X: LinkedIn: YouTube:
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Protecting Your Farm's Legacy with Succession Planning
11/04/2025
Protecting Your Farm's Legacy with Succession Planning
Farmers build an entire legacy within their operation, one that can be passed down for generations. But what happens when it's actually time to hand that legacy over? In this episode, Mike Howell sits down with Uncommon Farms' Manager of Succession Planning, Mike Downey to dig into the realities of on-farm succession planning. They explore the difference between estate and succession planning, the transition options available, how to bring the next generation into the business, when to use a will versus a revocable living trust, and how private installment sales can help transfer equity to the next generation while maintaining income for the current owners. Plus, Mike Downey shares his best advice for starting the succession conversation on the farm (and why starting early is the best investment you can make). Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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When Crisis Hits the Farm: How Farm Rescue Saves the Season
10/28/2025
When Crisis Hits the Farm: How Farm Rescue Saves the Season
Injuries and illnesses can bring the entire season to a halt, something no farmer can plan for. That's where Farm Rescue comes in. In this episode of The Dirt, host Mike Howell talks with Founder and President of Farm Rescue, Bill Gross, to explore how this one-of-a-kind non-profit provides free, hands-on help to farmers and ranchers to keep farms running when life takes a turn. From planting and haying to harvesting and feeding livestock, Farm Rescue mobilizes the volunteers and equipment needed to help farm families get the job done and save the season ahead. Bill shares how his roots in farming and the traditional idea of 'neighbors helping neighbors' inspired his efforts and how he thought of the idea while flying 40,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean. Explore how he's helped over 1,200 farm families through Farm Rescue since it was first started with support from dozens of organizations including Nutrien. If you or someone you know is in need of support, call Farm Rescue at 701-252-2017. Find more information here: . Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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How Soil Testing Helps Maximize Your Input Dollars
10/21/2025
How Soil Testing Helps Maximize Your Input Dollars
When every dollar counts, guessing what's in your soil isn't an option. That's where soil testing comes in. In this episode of The Dirt, we dig into how soil testing can help farmers make every input dollar work harder in their fields. Host Mike Howell is joined by Alan Meijer and Mick Goedeken from Waypoint Analytical as they discuss the real ROI of soil testing and why cutting back under tight margins isn't ideal. They explore how soil sampling improves fertilizer efficiency and crop performance, how often to test your soil, the best time of year to sample, and which soil test results matter most for your bottom line. Plus, Alan and Mick share the latest soil data trends from millions of lab results, including rising sulfur levels and shifting phosphate values. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Your Winter Weather Watchouts: What the Forecast Says
10/14/2025
Your Winter Weather Watchouts: What the Forecast Says
How has the weather impacted the end of this year's crop? And what does our winter weather outlook say? Find out as Mike Howell sits down with Nutrien Ag Solution's Sr. Science Fellow and Atmospheric Scientist, Eric Snodgrass, to unpack what's shaping up to be quite a familiar story; La Niña is back, and this winter's weather patterns are looking a lot like last year's. Eric breaks down why the Bermuda High has shifted and how that's fueling dry conditions across the mid-south, and what farmers can expect heading into another La Niña winter. He explains the odd episodes of drought we've witnessed in the last three years, the current moisture pattern we're in, and his long-range weather outlook around the globe, from Europe and Australia to North and South America. Plus, he shares his biggest watch out this season. Hint: it's all in the Gulf of Alaska. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Navigating Farming's Economic Cycles
10/07/2025
Navigating Farming's Economic Cycles
How can we navigate agriculture's economic cycles, and what does the state of the ag economy look like today? In this episode of The Dirt, host Mike Howell sits down with Executive Vice President and President of Global Retail for Nutrien Ag Solutions, Jeff Tarsi, to explore how growers can confidently manage the upswings and challenges of the ag economy. They discuss what today's challenges look like compared to the 1980s farm crisis, from high interest rates and various geopolitical issues to yields, land values, and commodity prices. Plus, Jeff uncovers and explains how improvements in efficiency, technology, and our understanding of soil health have strengthened our system and economic resilience over time. They also explore how relentless consistency, a willingness to try new things, and a 'controlling the controllables' mindset can help growers thrive through economic swings on the farm. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Your Ag Market Analysis: What You Need to Know for 2026
09/30/2025
Your Ag Market Analysis: What You Need to Know for 2026
What factors are influencing crop prices, input markets, and on-farm planning today? Host Mike Howell sits down with Mark Tully, Nutrien's director of commercial value optimization, to explore the current state of agricultural markets and what it all means for growers heading into 2026. Mark shares his insights into record harvests, shifting trade flows, and evolving fertilizer dynamics—from limited nitrogen and phosphate supplies to steady potash availability. He also highlights how broader economic trends and global factors are influencing farm inputs, exports, crop prices, and opportunities for farmers. Listen to the episode to explore what's driving agricultural markets and prices today and what's expected next season. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Desert Farming: Efficiency is the Name of the Game
09/23/2025
Desert Farming: Efficiency is the Name of the Game
What crops grow best in the desert, and how does farming change in the arid Southwest? Find out as Mike Howell sits down with Richard Mead, regional agronomy manager and innovation farm lead at Nutrien Ag Solutions, and Dr. Karl Wyant, Nutrien's director of agronomy, for a deep dive into agriculture in California and Arizona. Dive into the diversity of crops grown throughout the year, from almonds to Durham wheat, and the unique challenges facing these crops. Uncover how growers in the area manage irrigation, salinity, soil fertility, and water, and how technology and innovations at Nutrien's Selma Innovation Farm are helping to shape the future of desert agriculture. Learn more about the upcoming Selma Innovation Field Day hosted by Nutrien Ag Solutions . Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Tapping Into Crop Conversations With Biosensors
09/16/2025
Tapping Into Crop Conversations With Biosensors
Can your crops really talk? On this episode of The Dirt, host Mike Howell sits down with Co-Founder and Director of Vivent Biosignals, Nigel Wallbridge, to uncover how biosensors are helping farmers tap into the hidden communication networks inside their plants. Nigel shares how tiny electrodes and AI algorithms work together to detect internal crop signals before they are visible in the field. From early warnings of drought, disease, and nutrient deficiencies to real-time insights that improve irrigation and soil fertility planning, this technology is giving farmers a new way to "listen" to their crops. Tune in to explore the benefits of biosensors, what they can detect, and how you can implement them on your operation. To learn more about biosensors and the new technology offered by Vivent, visit Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Nitrogen Management: Lessons from the Prairies
09/09/2025
Nitrogen Management: Lessons from the Prairies
What does nitrogen management look like in the Canadian Prairies? Find out as host Mike Howell sits down with Retired Agronomist, Ray Dowbenko, to explore how nitrogen is lost, managed and applied in Western Canada. From the primary sources of nitrogen used and how they're applied, to fall application considerations and the value of enhanced-efficiency fertilizers, we explore the ins and outs of nitrogen loss and nitrogen management in the North. Dig into how Canadians prevent nitrogen loss, the increasing value of urea, controlled-release nitrogen products and tips for greater nitrogen management in this exciting episode. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Managing and Maintaining a Natural Grass Field
09/02/2025
Managing and Maintaining a Natural Grass Field
Ready to change the way you look at football fields forever? It's not as simple as managing an acre of grass. In this episode of The Dirt, Dr. Bryan G. Hopkins joins Mike Howell to break down the art and science of sports turf management. From irrigation timing and mowing height, paint and shade, to compaction and crowns, you'll hear what really goes into the fields our athletes play on. Explore why natural grass has become the turf of choice, how stadium layouts affect growth and uncover innovative technologies that have changed the turfgrass management game for NFL and college football consultants like Dr. Bryan Hopkins. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Resilient By Design: A Look Inside Canadian Dairy
08/26/2025
Resilient By Design: A Look Inside Canadian Dairy
What does dairy farming look like in Canada, and what does it take to keep a farm thriving for over six generations? Find out with your host, Mike Howell, as he sits down with Jason Crozier, an Alberta dairy farmer whose family has been farming on the same land for almost 130 years. From growing their own feed and embracing innovations like robotic milking to managing costs and minimizing waste, Jason shares the thoughtful and steady approach that has kept their operation resilient, through COVID, rising input costs and labor shortages. Dive into Canada's unique supply-managed pricing system, how circular practices like manure management and growing your own rations support long-term sustainability and success and explore the realities of dairy farming in Canada. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Tight Tassel Wrap: The Latest Challenge in Corn
08/19/2025
Tight Tassel Wrap: The Latest Challenge in Corn
This season has brought one of the most puzzling problems in corn production, the tight tassel wrap. Tight tassel wrap is an uncommon phenomenon that occurs when the uppermost leaves refuse to unfurl, keeping the tassel trapped and preventing pollination. The result? Pollination problems that can quietly reduce your yields, even in fields that look picture-perfect from afar. Tune in as Mike Howell sits down with Dr. Dan Quinn, Purdue University's extension corn specialist, to explore this new challenge and the importance of getting timing and synchrony right throughout corn production. They break down how corn pollinates, how pollen travels from tassel shed to silks to fertilize ovules and why the short pollination window is so vulnerable to stress. You'll hear about how environmental changes and hybrid traits can create this problem and what to look for when scouting your fields. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Managing Sulfur: Timing, Sources and Tools
08/12/2025
Managing Sulfur: Timing, Sources and Tools
Canada has been managing sulfur throughout every stage of crop production for decades. Today, we're uncovering the lessons you can learn from their playbook. On this episode of The Dirt, Mike Howell is joined by Ray Dowbenko, a retired senior agronomist with over 30 years of experience across the Canadian Prairies. Together, they unpack how to manage this essential nutrient and offer us lessons we can take back to our own soil. You'll uncover the critical role that sulfur plays in our crops (from supporting amino acid production to nitrogen use efficiency), why canola has such a great demand for this nutrient, the differences between sulfate sulfur sources and elemental sulfur sources (and when to use them), the best time to apply, the 4Rs and sulfur fertilization and other insights from Ray's 30 years of experience in crop production in Western Canada. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Fertilizer Storage: Protecting Quality and Flowability
08/05/2025
Fertilizer Storage: Protecting Quality and Flowability
Fertilizer supply chains have been anything but stable this year. For many growers, that makes on-farm storage not just a convenience, but a strategic advantage. But storing fertilizer isn’t as simple as putting it in a bin and forgetting about it. So how do you preserve its quality over time, especially in humid conditions? Find out on this episode of The Dirt with your host, Mike Howell, and Nutrien Senior Agronomist, Lyle Cowell. Join them as they explore the real-world challenges and benefits of fertilizer storage, from managing product blends and minimizing moisture risks to equipment and application considerations. You'll learn how and why fertilizers clump, the two primary ways they absorb moisture, how to prevent moisture absorption and what simple steps can make a big difference in fertilizer storability, flowability and safety, particularly in Western Canada. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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How the Calgary Stampede Connects Global Agriculture
07/29/2025
How the Calgary Stampede Connects Global Agriculture
The Calgary Stampede is known for its legendary rodeo and riveting chuck wagon races, but it's so much more than that. In this episode of The Dirt, Mike Howell sits down with Chair of the Calgary Stampede's International Agriculture and Agri-Food Sub-Committee, Scott Exner, to discuss the Stampede's evolving role in international collaboration, networking and connection. Scott shares his insights into why thousands of international guests make the trip to Alberta for this iconic event every year. It's not just for the rodeo—it's a gathering place where they can participate in meaningful networking with the entire sector, and it's a place where our industry can bridge the gap between producers and consumers. Join the conversation to learn how the Calgary Stampede plans to continue to serve as a vital hub for thought leadership and ag innovation around the world. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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The Calgary Stampede: A Gateway to the Future of Agriculture
07/22/2025
The Calgary Stampede: A Gateway to the Future of Agriculture
What's next for Canadian agriculture, and what role does the Calgary Stampede play in helping us get there? Sit down with Mike Howell and Canadian Agriculture Hall of Famer, AdFarm Founder and Canadian agriculture advocate, Kim McConnell, as they explore food and farming at one of Canada's most iconic events - the Calgary Stampede. Tune in to uncover the Stampede's history and roots in cattle country and its evolving role as a platform for policy, connection and education - helping to bridge the gap between Canadian producers and consumers. Explore the challenges and opportunities facing Canadian ag, the future of the agri-food industry and why mentoring the next generation is critical for our success. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Smarter Sulfur Management
07/15/2025
Smarter Sulfur Management
In agriculture, we tend to look at each nutrient in isolation. It's time to break down our silos and take a closer look at how nutrients work together in our fields. Join Mike Howell and special guest, Eve-Lyn Hinckley, as they explore Hinckley's recent research on sulfur. From increasing nitrogen use efficiency to changing soil pH, we explore sulfur's critical role in our soil and how it works together with various nutrients to support crop production. From the rising need for sulfur to tips for better and smarter sulfur management, we explore it all. We also dig into the first global analysis of sulfur deficiency and Hinckley's role in spearheading the new research. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Investing in Safer Farms and Fields
07/08/2025
Investing in Safer Farms and Fields
When it comes to safety on the farm, a little bit of preparation goes a long way. In this episode of The Dirt, we sit down with Dr. Thomas Bowden, a practicing ER doctor with firsthand insight into the health and safety risks faced by farmers every day. From the basics of first aid to the most life-saving measures on the farm, Dr. Bowden shares what every farmer should know about caring for yourself and others in the field. Discover what to do – and what not to do – during common farm incidents, why every farm needs a well-stocked first aid kit, how to respond to a broken bone, how to respond while waiting for EMS to arrive, what to do in the event of a snake bite, how to recognize and address heat stress and more on this exciting episode. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Navigating Global Impacts on Fertilizer Supply
07/01/2025
Navigating Global Impacts on Fertilizer Supply
How are ongoing conflicts reshaping fertilizer and energy markets around the world? Find out with Mike Howell and Nutrien Senior Manager of Market Research, Mark Tully. Explore how energy prices and fertilizer supplies have changed as a result of ongoing conflict in the Middle East - one of the most important regions in fertilizer production. From losing half a million tons of prompt fertilizer supply to the closure of major production facilities, we uncover it all. Take a closer look at both immediate and long-term impacts for producers and importers, including changing urea prices and nitrogen supplies, and how the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz could impact global availability. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Paving Your Path in Agriculture
06/24/2025
Paving Your Path in Agriculture
Uncover the exciting opportunities, careers and paths available in the agriculture industry. Walk through Rob Mikkelson's remarkable career in ag, one that spanned nearly 40 years while taking him far beyond the field. From early roles in government to leadership positions across the industry, this episode explores the pivotal decisions and leaps that shaped a fulfilling career in agriculture. Rob reflects on how he stumbled into soil science, the mentors that shaped his path, his contributions to 4R Nutrient Stewardship, the path he took and the endless opportunities available to the next generation. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Not Your Average Veggie: Potato's Nutrient Demands
06/17/2025
Not Your Average Veggie: Potato's Nutrient Demands
Potatoes aren't like other crops. They're an extremely unique crop that require extra care and attention. You need to have the right soil conditions, a solid fertilizer program and a strong understanding of how they grow throughout the season. Explore how you can support your potato crop on this episode of The Dirt. Join Mike Howell and Brigham Young Professor and Professional Soil Scientist, Bryan G. Hopkins, as they explore how to manage nutrition throughout production. Tune in to uncover nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus application rates and explore best practices in nutrient management that can support your success. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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What's Impacting Fertilizer Supply This Season?
06/10/2025
What's Impacting Fertilizer Supply This Season?
How can you navigate today's market conditions? Join Mike Howell and Nutrien Senior Market Research Manager, Mark Tully, as they explore the complexities of agriculture's current market landscape. Mark unpacks fertilizer availability and how various international trade dynamics have impacted global supplies of fertilizer. From tight nitrogen and phosphorus supplies to strong demands for potash, we uncover it all. We also explore how current supplies and trade uncertainties will impact commodity prices and what these dynamics mean for your farm. Plus, Mark shares what he says he is keeping a close eye on this season (hint: he's got his eyes on the sky). Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Bringing the Next Generation Back to the Farm
06/03/2025
Bringing the Next Generation Back to the Farm
Join Mike Howell as he sits down with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry's Deputy Commissioner, JanLee Rowlett, to talk about the future of our fields. Explore how organizations like Future Farmers of America, 4-H and the department of agriculture are developing and preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders—from farmers to accountants. Learn about the department of agriculture's current programs and how they encourage youth to come back to rural communities. Learn more about the year of youth in agriculture: Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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The Hidden Risks In Your Nitrogen Program
05/27/2025
The Hidden Risks In Your Nitrogen Program
What are the most important things you need to know about nitrogen management? Join Mike Howell as he explores what Dr. Fabián G. Fernández has learned in over a decade in the field. According to Dr. Fabián, it's all about managing risk. Tune in as he shares what's worked year in and year out in preventing loss and driving a greater ROI. Uncover the unmatched value of spring applications, tips for fall applications and the essential role of adequate soil drainage. Plus, Dr. Fabián shares his expert tips for managing nitrogen in sandy soils (including his rule of thumb for the best time to apply). Read Dr. Fabián's full article on the University of Minnesota Extension website: l Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Spotting, Diagnosing and Solving Potassium Deficiencies
05/20/2025
Spotting, Diagnosing and Solving Potassium Deficiencies
Don't let a potassium deficiency steal your season (or your yields). With potassium deficiencies on the rise across North America, we're taking a closer look at how you can address mid-season crop needs. Join Mike Howell and Dr. Bobby Golden as they explore how you can spot, diagnose and solve mid-season potassium deficiencies for greater yields and profitability. From how to diagnose a deficiency to practical tips for correction, this episode explores everything you need to know about mid-season potassium management. Dig into the hidden signs of hunger in your soybean crops and how important it is to catch deficiency ahead of time. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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How Land Judging Prepares Future Farmers
05/13/2025
How Land Judging Prepares Future Farmers
Mike revisits where his career first began—the National Land and Range Judging Contest. He sits down with three North Dakota 4-H'ers at the 74th annual contest to uncover their experiences, what they learn and how the event prepares them for a future in farming. Plus, we're joined by Larry Wright, one of the contest's officials to explore how the event emphasizes the importance of protecting our resources through land, range and homesite judging. He discusses the effort that goes into the competition each year and the incredible youth involved in the national contest. As sponsors of this incredible event, we're proud to invest in the next generation of soil stewards. To learn more about the National Land and Range Judging Contest, visit Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Cover Crops: Planting With a Purpose
05/06/2025
Cover Crops: Planting With a Purpose
Are cover crops a worthwhile investment? Do their benefits outweigh their potential drawbacks? Join Mike Howell and North Dakota State University's Assistant Professor of Extension Soil Science, Dr. Brady Goettl, as they explore the value of planting cover crops for your soil (and not for sale). From Dr. Goettl's opinion on the benefits and drawbacks of cover cropping to current incentive programs and practical tips for cover crop planning, we discuss it all in this exciting episode. Tune in today to uncover Dr. Goettl's path in soil health and fertility while gaining practical insights for cover cropping on your operation. Plus, you'll uncover what Dr. Goettl says to every farmer considering the use of cover crops. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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Are We Overlooking Potassium?
04/29/2025
Are We Overlooking Potassium?
Potassium is one of the most simple and affordable nutrients in your fertilizer program. Dig into how it's produced, where it's mined from and the need for potash on Canadian soils on this episode of The Dirt. Join Mike Howell and Nutrien Senior Agronomist Lyle Cowell as they explore the vital role that potassium plays throughout crop production. From impacting nutrient availability and water balance to supporting plant development and reproduction, we explore it all. We uncover how potassium cycles through the soil to enhance your profitability. Dig into the importance of replacing this vital nutrient and its impact on various crop rotations in this exciting episode. Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit Subscribe to our YouTube channel:
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