10/25/2023

Breaking Down the Environmental Benefits of Nitrogen Stabilizers

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Pond in field

As a retailer, you know nitrogen is essential to growing high-yielding corn. And with 12 million tons of nitrogen fertilizer applied to crops each year, it’s critical to keep nitrogen where it’s applied.

Unfortunately, a percentage of applied nitrogen will never be utilized by crops and will be lost into the water or air instead. Studies show that, on average, 25% of all nitrogen applied will be lost, with losses reaching up to 60% in extreme cases.1

By using a proven nitrogen stabilizer as part of a strategic nutrient management program, farmers can reduce nitrogen loss and protect both air and water quality. This is a win for the environment and their bottom line.

Breaking Down the Numbers

So, exactly how does nitrogen stabilization benefit the environment? Over 1,000 independent studies prove N-Serve® and Instinct NXTGEN® nitrogen stabilizers, both powered by Optinyte® technology, offer:2

Let’s break down these numbers further:

  • 51% fewer greenhouse gas emissions. The exclusive Optinyte technology found in N-Serve and Instinct NXTGEN nitrogen stabilizers reduces denitrification, reducing the escape of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
  • 28% greater soil retention. Keeping the nitrogen in place longer maximizes each nitrogen application, reducing the loss of nitrates into groundwater and producing maximum profit come harvest.
  • 16% less nitrogen leaching. By slowing nitrification, N-Serve and Instinct NXTGEN nitrogen stabilizers help reduce nitrogen loss due to leaching. At current acre applications in the United States, this is equivalent to approximately 21 million pounds of nitrogen prevented from entering waters annually.

An On-farm Perspective

Iowa farmer Joe Shirbroun shares his experience with Optinyte technology and his perspective on the importance of protecting local water quality in this video.

For more information, contact your local Corteva Agriscience representative or visit NutrientMaximizers.com.

1U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2022. Nonpoint Source: Agriculture. https://www.epa.gov/nps/nonpoint-source-agriculture

2Wolt, J. D. 2004. A meta-evaluation of nitrapyrin agronomic and environmental effectiveness with emphasis on corn production in the Midwestern USA. Nutrient Cycling in Agroecosystems. 69: 23–41.

Instinct NXTGEN® is not registered for sale or use in all states. Contact your state pesticide regulatory agency to determine if a product is registered for sale or use in your state. Do not fall-apply anhydrous ammonia south of Highway 16 in the state of Illinois. Optinyte® is a registered active ingredient. Always read and follow label directions.