Management Practices Hot Topic At 17th Annual Fluid Forum

Speakers stress efficiency and nutrient strategies designed to maximize yields and protect the environment at the same time.

Much was to be learned in a politically correct world at the Fluid Fertilizer Foundation’s 17th Annual Fluid Forum held at the Scottsdale Plaza Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. Those attending were fed a broad diet on how growers can produce maximum yields and at the same time protect the environment as good stewards. Dr. Bryan Hopkins of Brigham Young University discussed the advantages of band placement. In separate talks, Tim Shaver and Dr. Raj Khosla of Colorado State University and Dr. Tony Vyn of Purdue University treated capacity crowds to the intricacies and benefits of site-specific management geared at maximizing fertilizer-use efficiency. Dr. Dan Walters of the University of Nebraska presented research detailing how high yields can be managed in a manner friendly to the environment. Three sessions were spread over two-and-a-half days and included 20 presentations.

At the annual meeting banquet, attendees enjoyed tasty cuisine before getting down to Foundation business and honoring industry members deserving recognition. Researcher of the Year Award went to Dr. Barney Gordon of Kansas State University for his outstanding research contributions to the fluid fertilizer industry. The prestigious Werner Nelson Award was presented to Dr. Dan Walters of the University of Nebraska for his outstanding contributions in soil fertility practices and plant nutrition management. Fluid Fellow Awards, given for recognition of leadership in the fluid fertilizer industry, were presented to Dr. Ray Hoyum of Advantage International, Jim May of J. May Equipment Group/ATA, Inc., Mike Orr of Specialty Process Consulting, LLC, Herb Woolsey of Woolsey Bros. Farm Supply, Inc. and Dr. Larry Murphy, FFF outgoing president. Dr. Murphy was also given a special award for his ten years as president of the FFF. Rex Hopkins was introduced as the FFF’s 2008 chair by outgoing chair Dr. J. Julian Smith.

In 2009, the Fluid Forum will be held again at the Scottsdale Plaza Resort in Scottsdale. Dates are February 15 to 17 2009.