A 4R acre is defined as an acre of U.S. cropland under management using 4R practices, which stands for using the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place.

Arlington, VA - The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today announced that nearly 65 million acres of U.S. farmland are being actively managed using 4R Nutrient Stewardship practices.

"Industry leaders set a goal in 2021 to have 70 million acres of cropland under 4R management by 2030," said TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. "Today's update shows that we are well on our way to achieving that goal and that being good stewards of our shared resources are a priority to both the fertilizer industry and farmers across the country."

A 4R acre is defined as an acre of U.S. cropland under management using 4R practices, which stands for using the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time, and in the right place. These practices include crediting organic sources and removal rates, variable rate technology, split applications, the use of cover crops, accounting for weather during application, etc.

Fertilizer is a key component of sustainable crop production systems, and the fertilizer industry recognizes the need to use these nutrients efficiently. "4R Nutrient Stewardship is an innovative and science-based approach that offers enhanced environmental protection, increased production, increased farmer profitability, and improved sustainability," Rosenbusch explained.

The world's growing population depends on responsible agricultural practices to provide a steady supply of food. Modern fertilizer application techniques, such as 4R Nutrient Stewardship, precision agriculture, and use of enhanced efficiency fertilizers, are an essential part of this sustainable future, and TFI is invested in promoting best practices to help farmers improve their productivity and food nutrition.

For more information on 4R Nutrient Stewardship, including farmer profitability case studies, visit TFI's 4R Advocate webpage.


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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation's fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI's membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI's full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) at @Fertilizer_Inst.