Anchorage-Researchers from agriculture-related departments at the University of Alaska Fairbanks met here last month to discuss what can be done for farmers losing their only in-state source and facing much higher prices for urea with closing of Agrium Inc.’s Nikiski plant a year ago. Those at the gathering were advised that a dwindling supply of the product remains, but Alaska farmers are beginning to order fertilizer from out of state and will have to pay associated shipping costs, which in some cases can mean much higher prices. World economic factors also were considered, which have resulted in similar or greater price increases in other fertilizer components. “Our objectives were simple,” Dr. Milan Shipka, associate director of the Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station, told Green Markets. “We want to all be on the same page when anyone in our organization receives questions on fertilizer use and we want to all provide the best advice possible.” Shipka reported that committees were organized to review available information for the various crops and make sure that future research efforts are pointed towards efficiency of fertilizer use in the cold soils associated with agriculture in the sub-arctic conditions of Alaska. Committee members will make recommendations for specific crops, including hay crops, turf grass, grains, and vegetables, and identify future research needs. “When farmers have the best information it helps them plan better and run their businesses more efficiently,” Shipka added. Representatives also attended from UAF’s School of Natural Resources and Agricultural Sciences and the Cooperative Extension Service.
Transparency Across the Fertilizer Value-Chain