Indiana CCA Conference 2023 Presentation
 
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Presentations

W10

Soil & Water Management
Wed, Dec 20, 2023
10:00am to 10:50am

W3

Soil & Water Management
Wed, Dec 20, 2023
3:00pm to 3:50pm

At-A-Glance

Indiana Science Assessment: Determining Practice Effectiveness at Reducing Nutrient Losses

Reducing nutrient loss from agricultural production is a key goal of Indiana’s State Nutrient Reduction Strategy, but quantifying reductions is difficult. The Indiana Science Assessment supports the Strategy by (1) determining water quality trends statewide from monitoring data in rivers, and (2) improving the way we track nutrient and sediment reductions from individual conservation practices.  This presentation will describe the two components of the Science Assessment and provide examples of how CCAs and producers can use this information as another factor in helping farmers determine what practices fit into their farm’s overall agronomic and conservation strategies.  In addition, we will share opportunities for CCAs to engage in programs and projects that may be of benefit to CCAs and their farmers that can contribute to the success of the State Nutrient Reduction Strategy as well.

Speakers

Jane Frankenberger

Professor and Extension Agricultural Engineer
Purdue University
Biography

Dr. Frankenberger leads an extension and research program focused on protecting water quality while maintaining agricultural productivity. Her research has advanced conservation drainage design, watershed management, and soil and water conservation strategies, while delivering tools and strategies to stakeholders who can use them to inform decision making. A current focus is leading a statewide partnership in the development of the Indiana Science Assessment to support the State Nutrient Reduction Strategy. She has a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biological Engineering from Cornell University and is a Fellow of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers.

Ben Wicker

Executive Director
Indiana Agriculture Nutrient Alliance
Biography

Ben Wicker is the executive director of the recently formed Indiana Agriculture Nutrient Alliance (IANA), a partnership of agriculture groups, government agencies, conservation organizations and academia working to improve soil health and nutrient management practices on Indiana farms. Before assuming this role, Wicker held positions as an independent crop consultant and agronomist, and spent time with Indiana Pork Producers as the director of producer outreach. Most recently, Wicker held the position of agribusiness specialist at The Nature Conservancy where he worked with agribusinesses to expand services that promote nutrient management and soil health. Wicker holds a bachelor’s degree in agronomy and crop science from Purdue University and is an active member of his family’s diversified grain, forage and cattle operation in east central Indiana.

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