Environmental stewardship meetings for crop and livestock producers will explain how the Phosphorus Index affects crop and livestock producers. The meetings will be March 17 in Spencer, March 24 in Sheldon, April 5 in Whittemore and April 6 in Carroll from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Paul Kassel, Joel DeJong and Todd Vagts, Iowa State University (ISU) Extension crop specialists, will discuss how the Phosphorus Index works and various nutrient plans that use the Phosphorus Index. A new manure management form, being developed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, will include the Phosphorus Index number.

The Phosphorus Index assesses the risk of losing phosphorus from a field. This makes it a good tool for reducing surface water pollution according to the specialists.

Other topics featured in the meetings are water quality, air quality and services that state and local agencies provide for agricultural producers.

Iowa State University Extension, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and Natural Resources Conservation Service are sponsoring the meetings. Registration cost is $30 per person and is due two days prior to the meeting you plan to attend. For a brochure or more information, contact your local ISU Extension county office or Beth Doran, ISU Extension beef field specialist (712) 472-2576.

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