Maryland Farmers Cut Fertilizer Costs with Precision Agriculture

Farmers in Maryland are finding creative ways to manage input costs amidst rising fertilizer prices. Greg Dell, who operates a farm near Westminster, has been using precision agriculture technology to reduce nitrogen use and improve fertilizer efficiency since 2019.

Dell's family farm, Dell Brothers Inc., uses variable-rate technology to apply fertilizers based on soil type, crop history, and weather conditions. This approach has helped the farm cut its average nitrogen use by around 50 pounds per acre compared to three years ago.

According to DTN's fertilizer price analysis, prices for five fertilizers declined in mid-August, with UAN28 leading the decline at 7% lower than last month. However, DAP and MAP prices were slightly higher compared to last month.

The industry goal is to increase domestic supply while relying on imports in the short term. OCP Group's shipment of triple superphosphate fertilizer from Morocco arrived at the Port of New Orleans earlier this week, providing immediate relief for farmers like Dell who have been adjusting their fertility practices due to tight margins.