Iowa Farm Bureau Hosts Webinar on Cutting Nitrogen Costs

New ISU modeling to help farmers optimize spring nitrogen application

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), in partnership with Iowa State University (ISU), is hosting a free farmer webinar on March 27 to provide new data and tools to help farmers reduce nitrogen input costs while supporting yield goals and protecting water quality. The webinar will feature ISU researchers sharing findings from their recent modeling analysis of soil mineralization and factors contributing to unusual nitrogen levels this winter, along with the latest nitrogen fertility support tools available to farmers.

Why it matters

With tight margins and high input costs, farmers are looking for ways to optimize nitrogen application and reduce expenses. This webinar aims to provide science-backed insights and practical solutions to help farmers make informed decisions about their spring nitrogen needs.

The details

The webinar, titled 'Why it Pays to Test Your Soil Nitrogen,' will cover new modeling analysis from ISU researchers on soil mineralization and factors affecting nitrogen levels. Farmers will learn about tools and strategies to fine-tune their nitrogen rates, balance economic returns, and improve environmental stewardship.

  • The webinar will be held on March 27, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

The players

Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF)

A non-profit organization representing Iowa farmers and advocating for agricultural interests.

Iowa State University (ISU)

A public research university and land-grant institution located in Ames, Iowa.

Dr. Matt Helmers

ISU researcher who will be presenting at the webinar.

Dr. Mike Castellano

ISU researcher who will be presenting at the webinar.

Dr. Richard Roth

ISU researcher who will be presenting at the webinar.

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What they’re saying

“We continuously strive to provide the latest science and practical solutions to farmers to help them make the best decisions for their farms.”

— Shawn Richmond, IFBF conservation and natural resources policy advisor (americanagnetwork.com)

“Since 98% of the nitrogen in Iowa's soil is naturally occurring, the key is understanding how environmental conditions drive its availability. Our new modeling sheds light on that and gives farmers new insight to fine-tune their nitrogen rates so they can balance economic returns with environmental stewardship.”

— Dr. Mike Castellano, ISU researcher (americanagnetwork.com)

What’s next

Farmers can register for the free webinar at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ZaEF2Vj1R-O4ah7jaXMHgg.

The takeaway

This webinar provides Iowa farmers with science-backed insights and practical tools to optimize their spring nitrogen application, reduce input costs, and improve environmental sustainability - all critical factors for maintaining profitability in the current agricultural landscape.