1. Using Irrigation Nitrogen Credits for Grain Crops

Nitrogen contamination of surface and groundwater is not uncommon in many areas of the U.S. and Colorado is no exception. Nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) in groundwater is the most common form of plant available nitrogen (N), especially in shallow, alluvial aquifers in areas with intensive irrigated agriculture. When utilized as a primary irrigation water supply, this nitrate can contribute a significant portion of a crop’s N supply. Crediting water nitrate is part of Colorado N fertilizer recommendations... T. Bauder, R. Waskom