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Softening fertilizer prices helping bottom line

Softening fertilizer prices are helping farmers manage costs while margins remain tight.

Kathy Mathers, vice president of public affairs for The Fertilizer Institute, says it’s cheaper to buy N, P and K this spring compared to a year ago.

“And if you look at the affordability index, it’s better than it was last year.  Even last year though, still very affordable given commodity prices.  Fertilizer is still a really good investment.”

She tells Brownfield the industry continues to promote 4R nutrient stewardship because it benefits the environment and the bottom line.

“Framework that calls for the use of the right fertilizer source at the right rate, time and place.  And that’s a very site-specific framework that works for Minnesota farmers and works for farmers halfway across the world.”

She also points out a world-class nitrogen plant that just opened in Iowa will strengthen the supply chain and further reduce pressure on prices.

Brownfield interviewed Mathers in Washington, D.C. during NAFB’s Washington Watch.