Illinois Soil Testing Association
Improve Your Aim
Precision Agriculture
Soil type, pH level and nutrients available can vary from acre to acre in your fields. ISTA member laboratories will give you the tools and techniques to reduce the problems associated with over or under-fertilization.
Your local ISTA laboratory can assist you in using Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology for soil testing and fertilizer application. Farmers using site-specific GPS management often see fertilizer cost savings of $3 to $5 per acre and additional savings from reduced application expenses
Under-fertilization costs you in lost yield. However, over-fertilization increases your costs and can cause a host of environmental problems as well.
The essence of farming and horticulture involves not only efficient production, but also involves good stewardship of the soil. The accuracy you receive from your ISTA member laboratory not only improves the effectiveness of your fertilization program – it helps improve the environment.