The confidential water testing program engages farmers in nutrient and water quality issues by providing specific information on nutrient losses from their operations.
ICGA is partnering with Illinois FFA to provide nitrate water test strips to all ICGA members. A $5 donation is made to any Illinois FFA chapter of the farmer’s choosing after they anonymously submit their results online.
Farmers are encouraged to sample water flowing out of tile lines, from surface runoff, or in an adjacent stream or creek. Educational resources and conservation practices are provided to help farmers understand their impact on water quality, evaluate the potential economic loss, and consider management practices that may reduce nitrogen losses.
These test results are just a snapshot of ambient nutrient levels in water from tile drains, surface runoff, or nearby streams. Nutrient levels in runoff water can vary greatly depending on the time of year, temperature, rainfall, and in-field practices. Nevertheless, the test results combined with flow rates (the volume of water leaving a site) can be used to estimate the total nutrient loading into a waterbody. In addition, farmers can estimate the pounds per acre leaving the field. These numbers are a starting point for learning and discussion about practices that are available for farmers to reduce nutrient losses.
For more information, see ilcorn.org/watertesting.
