Effectiveness of Nutrient Management Plans on Vermont Dairy Farms

A nutrient management plan (NMP) is a tool that helps livestock farmers optimize crop nutrient use. A survey of Vermont dairy farmers was conducted to learn about farmers\u27 implementation of and perceptions about the effects of NMPs. Results showed that 46% of the 301 respondents had NMPs, particularly large and medium size operations. The majority followed the plans most of the time (barring weather and other constraints). The study revealed that NMPs affected total perceived fertilizer use and adoption of conservation practices. It showed that the person(s) updating the NMP affected the frequency to which the plan\u27s recommendations were consulted