Utah Water Quality- Fertilizer Impact on Groundwater in Utah

Water quality has become the focal point of many decisions involving crop production. Crop production depends on specific inputs including fertilizer application. Without proper fertilization a farmer cannot achieve maximum economic returns. Crop yields in Utah have been increased over 50% by nitrogen fertilizer application alone. However, increasing nitrogen application beyond that needed for optimum economic return does more harm than good. This is especially true when groundwater concerns are addressed