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Ohio Nutrient Education & Management

Governor's Executive Order

OHIO AGRICULTURAL LAW BLOG--ODA AGAIN REVISES "WATERSHEDS IN DISTRESS" RULE

Over 17,493 applicators certified 

To date, over 17,493 applicators have attended training offered by Ohio State University Extension for the agricultural fertilizer certification. More certification training opportunities will be offered by OSU Extension this fall and winter. 

Certification Opportunities   

Exam Option

Recertification Opportunities

Ohio's New Agriculture Fertilizer Certification Requirements

Click here for a brochure summarizing certification requirements: 

Who needs a fertilizer certification?:  Fertilizer certification is required if you apply fertilizer (other than manure) to more than 50 acres used for agricultural production grown primarily for sale. If you have the co-op or other custom applicator make your fertilizer applications, you do not need the certification.

What fertilizer is included in the certification?:  Fertilizer is any substance containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, or other plant nutrient in a dry or liquid formulation. All application types (broadcast, side dress, sub-surface, knifing, etc.) are included in the certification requirement. The only application exempted is start-up fertilizers that are applied through a planter and manure.  For this certification requirement, lime and limestone are not considered fertilizers.

 

Who is exempt from the training requirement?  Applicators who are a Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) or Ohio Certified Livestock Manager (CLM) are not required to attend training to become certified for fertilizer applications. However, those with a CCA or CLM exemption for training must still contact Ohio Department of Agriculture at 614-728-6987 to complete the exemption paperwork and pay for the fertilizer certification if the applicator does not already have a pesticide applicator license. 

Soil Fertility Factsheets, Bulletins and Tools

Visit https://go.osu.edu/fertilityresources to view OSU's AgCrops website. The materials on this website cover nutrient topics for soil fertility, row and forage crops, plus water quality concerns. 

H2Ohio Program

 Visit https://h2.ohio.gov/ to learn how the H2Ohio program can benefit you. Farmers can often save money on their fertility program by taking a critical field-by-field look at nutrient plans. Below is a list of the factsheets and tools available to you, including the Fertilizer Calculator tool. The tool can recommend Lime, P, and K needs for seven different crops grown in 21 fields (or zones).

Developing Nutrient Recommendations

ODA Releases Two New Nutrient Management Tools

The Ohio Applicator Forecast:  an online tool used to help identify times when nutrient loss from a fertilizer or manure application will be minimal.  By taking data from the National Weather Service, this tool can predict the potential for runoff to occur in an area.  For more information, visit agri.ohio.gov/divs/plant/OhioApplicatorForecast/oaf.aspx

The Ohio Agricultural Stewardship Verification Program: This pilot program is a certification for farmers who protect farmland and natural resources by implementing best managment practices.  Farmers in targeted watersheds in Henry and Wood Counties who apply and meet criteria developed by the ODA's Division of Soil and Water Conservation can be certified.  Please visit your local Soil and Water Conservation District Office for more information.  

 

Other Frequently Asked Questions

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