Nitrogen

Sulfur prices have surged more than fivefold, threatening phosphate fertilizer production. With global supply tightening, farmers could face higher prices, or even fertilizer shortages, heading into the months ahead.

FTC chairman Andrew Ferguson announced a formal investigation Thursday into fertilizer pricing and market concentration, drawing a standing ovation from farmers representing 18 states.

The survey uses records from ag retailers to measure the use of cover crops, nutrient management and conservation tillage and no-till by Iowa growers.

Farmers in Minnesota could have more challenges when applying nitrogen, if a proposed rule becomes law. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is proposing the rule to minimize sources of nitrate pollution.