The Bourbon County Extension Service worked closely with local producers in effectively managing and reducing their fertilizer and pesticide usage where appropriate during the past year.   As production input costs increase local horticulture operations continue to look for ways to reduce costs.  One way the Bourbon Horticulture Extension has helped operations reduce costs is through more efficient management of soil fertility and pesticide usage. 

 During the past year over 30 producers received instruction on using integrated pest management approaches to more efficiently utilize insecticides. Producers reported knowledge gained in areas including scouting, acceptable damage thresholds, and pest identification.  The Extension Service used soil reports and direct site consults to help producers make more informed decision on fertilizer timing and rates.  Over 30 producers reported applying the proper amount of fertilizer based on direct Extension assistance.  In addition, other producers reported using less fertilizer because of more efficient application methods (side dress vs broadcast, fertigation, etc.).  

The changes added up to a reduction of fertilizer and pesticide inputs which helped the operations reduce costs and realize environmental benefits.  The Bourbon Extension Service will continue to work with local producers to produce crops using the latest scouting and monitoring methods.