This bill establishes a new subchapter in Code chapter 466B, mandating the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS) to conduct a commercial fertilizer study over four crop years. The study aims to identify innovative practices that can reduce the average statewide use of commercial nitrogen-based fertilizers by either 15% of the total nitrogen applied or 30 pounds per acre. DALS will examine qualifying crop production products that can be used alongside or as alternatives to commercial fertilizers, focusing on those that promote optimal plant growth while minimizing nonpoint source water pollution. Crop producers from various regions of the state will participate in the study, receiving compensation of at least $5 per acre per crop year.

Additionally, DALS is required to prepare a preliminary report by January 15, 2028, and a final report by January 15, 2031, detailing the study's progress and outcomes, including the identification of effective crop production products for corn and soybeans. The bill also stipulates that any information collected during the study that could identify individuals or specific cropland locations will be kept confidential. Importantly, the implementation of this subchapter is contingent upon the general assembly appropriating funds for the study, and the provisions will be repealed on July 1, 2031.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22.7