Global Fertilizer Disruptions Could Impact Growers

A new report from North Dakota State University’s Center for Agricultural Policy and Trade Studies highlights a developing global situation that could significantly affect fertilizer markets and agricultural input costs. The March 2026 NDSU Agricultural Trade Monitor examines how the closure of the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt global fertilizer trade and tighten supplies for producers around the world.

The full analysis provides detailed charts, global trade maps, and market comparisons that help explain how these disruptions could affect fertilizer prices and farm profitability in the months ahead.

Click to read the full report.

The report explains that the Persian Gulf is one of the most important corridors for fertilizer and fertilizer feedstocks moving through global markets. Roughly 43 percent of global urea exports, 44 percent of seaborne sulfur, and more than a quarter of ammonia exports originate from countries whose shipments pass through the Strait of Hormuz. When that shipping route is disrupted, fertilizer products and key feedstocks can become physically blocked from reaching global markets.

While the United States has some protection due to domestic production of nitrogen fertilizers, the report notes that about 17 percent of U.S. urea consumption and roughly 20 percent of phosphate consumption still relies on imports that normally pass through the region. Even when supplies remain available domestically, global disruptions can quickly drive price increases that are felt by farmers everywhere.

Another key concern highlighted in the analysis is sulfur supply. Gulf countries account for around 44 percent of global sulfur trade, and sulfur is a critical feedstock used in producing phosphate fertilizers such as DAP and MAP. Any disruption to sulfur supply can cascade through the fertilizer supply chain and tighten production in countries far removed from the conflict.

For irrigators and crop producers, the report serves as an important reminder of how global trade and geopolitical events can influence fertilizer availability and pricing. As irrigation and crop management decisions are made throughout the growing season, staying informed about fertilizer markets will be critical.

Minnesota Irrigator Program Offers Practical Insights for the 2026 Growing Season

With planting season just around the corner, irrigation management is once again top of mind for many growers across central Minnesota. From managing water efficiently to integrating new technologies, irrigation continues to evolve rapidly.

The Minnesota Irrigator Program, scheduled for March 10–11 in Perham, offers an excellent opportunity for growers to learn about the latest irrigation research, technology, and management strategies before the growing season begins.

Held at the Cactus Event Center, the two-day program will feature researchers, irrigation specialists, industry professionals, and growers sharing real-world insights that can help improve irrigation efficiency and crop performance.

The agenda includes sessions on topics such as irrigation scheduling, soil moisture sensors, irrigation system maintenance, nitrogen management under irrigation, and emerging technologies like autonomous pivots and canopy sensors.

Participants will also hear about current irrigation research taking place in Minnesota and across the country, as well as funding opportunities available to support irrigation improvements and water management practices.

One highlight of the program will be a grower panel discussing variable rate irrigation, where producers will share their experiences, lessons learned, and challenges when implementing the technology on their operations.

Beyond the presentations, the program also provides valuable time to visit with irrigation vendors and connect with other growers who face similar irrigation challenges.

For growers in central Minnesota, irrigation can be a key factor in maintaining crop yields during dry periods while making the most efficient use of available water resources. Programs like this provide practical knowledge that growers can bring back to their farms and apply during the upcoming season.

The Minnesota Irrigator Program runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day and includes meals and opportunities to network with irrigation professionals and fellow growers.

Registration is currently open, and growers interested in strengthening their irrigation management are encouraged to attend. Minnesota Irrigator Program | UMN Extension

Central Minnesota Irrigators: Speak Up on the Groundwater Protection Rule

Farmers and irrigators in central Minnesota have a timely opportunity to help shape how groundwater quality is protected across the state.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is currently accepting public letters as part of its ongoing review of the Groundwater Protection Rule. Feedback from working irrigators is especially valuable, as irrigation and nutrient management practices are closely tied to how this rule affects day-to-day farm operations.

GPR Template Letter to MDA

Click the link to access the template letter to MDA.

Why Central Minnesota Voices Matter

Central Minnesota features a wide range of soil types, cropping systems, and irrigation setups. Practical, field-based insight from this region can help decision makers understand:

  • How irrigation timing and efficiency influence nutrient use
  • What conservation practices are already working on local farms
  • How regulations may impact productivity and farm economics
  • Opportunities to protect water quality while maintaining strong yields

Real experiences from central Minnesota farms can help ensure the rule is both effective and workable.

New Template Letter for Members

To make participation quick and straightforward, the Central Minnesota Irrigators has developed a customizable template letter for members.

This template allows you to easily:

  • Describe your farm and irrigation practices
  • Share your commitment to responsible water and nutrient management
  • Highlight what is working well on your operation
  • Provide constructive input on how the rule should move forward

You simply add your own farm details and submit.

👉 Download the template letter here:

GPR Template Letter to MDA

Submission Deadline

Letters must be sent to MDA by:

Thursday, March 12, 2026

Taking a few minutes to send a letter ensures that central Minnesota irrigators are part of the conversation.

How to Take Action

  1. Open the Central Minnesota Irrigators template letter
  2. Personalize it with your farm’s story and perspective
  3. Submit your letter to MDA before March 12, 2026

Strong farms and clean groundwater go hand in hand. By sharing your real-world experience, central Minnesota irrigators can help guide practical solutions that protect water quality while supporting the future of irrigated agriculture.

A Big Opportunity for Central Minnesota Irrigators

Irrigated farms across central Minnesota are poised to benefit from a major new investment in precision irrigation. Through the USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), more than $11 million has been directed to Minnesota to help farmers modernize irrigation systems, improve water and nitrogen efficiency, and protect the groundwater resources that agriculture depends on.

For members of Central Minnesota Irrigators, this program represents a timely chance to upgrade equipment and management without carrying the full cost alone. It is specifically designed for working irrigated farms in central and east-central Minnesota where irrigation is essential for crop production and where protecting groundwater is a growing priority.

Why This Matters in Central Minnesota

Many central Minnesota fields sit on sandy soils that drain quickly. That makes irrigation critical, but it also means excess water or nutrients can move below the root zone and into groundwater.

The new RCPP initiative focuses on practical, farm-ready solutions that help producers:

  • Apply the right amount of water at the right time
  • Reduce energy and pumping costs
  • Improve nitrogen uptake by crops
  • Lower the risk of nitrate movement into drinking water aquifers

Better precision not only protects water, it can also protect margins by reducing wasted inputs.

What Farmers Can Get Help With

Eligible producers can receive cost-share funding and hands-on technical support for upgrades such as:

  • Retrofitting center pivots with modern nozzles and controls
  • Installing soil moisture sensors and monitoring tools
  • Upgrading pumps, pipelines, and electrical systems
  • Developing irrigation water management plans
  • Adding variable rate or zone control technology

When paired with irrigation improvements, soil health practices like cover crops or reduced tillage may also qualify on irrigated acres.

Local conservation staff will work directly with farmers to design systems that fit each field and operation, helping interpret sensor data and fine-tune irrigation schedules through the growing season.

Local Delivery Through Trusted Partners

The program is being led by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture in partnership with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service and supported by technical experts from University of Minnesota Extension.

On the ground, farmers will work with their local Soil and Water Conservation District offices, ensuring assistance is practical, local, and tailored to real field conditions in counties such as Stearns, Benton, Sherburne, Morrison, Todd, Douglas, Pope, and surrounding areas of central Minnesota.

Demonstration events and field days are planned in the region so irrigators can see new technology operating in real crops and talk directly with other producers who are putting these tools to work.

Strong Benefits for Irrigated Operations

For central Minnesota irrigators, the advantages are straightforward:

  • Lower water and energy use
  • More consistent yields in dry periods
  • Better nutrient efficiency
  • Long-term protection of shared groundwater supplies

This is not a research project or pilot. It is a multi-year, large-scale implementation effort built to get real equipment and real support onto real farms.

How to Get Involved

Enrollment opens February 2, 2026, and runs through February 27, 2026. Interested producers should contact their local Soil and Water Conservation District or NRCS office as soon as possible to start the application process.

Local staff will help confirm eligibility, outline potential projects, and guide producers through planning and paperwork. Funding is limited and demand is expected to be high, so early action is encouraged.

A Practical Path Forward

For members of Central Minnesota Irrigators, this RCPP Precision Irrigation program is one of the most significant support opportunities in years. It offers the funding, expertise, and local assistance needed to modernize irrigation, protect groundwater, and keep central Minnesota farms productive for the long haul.

By investing in smarter irrigation today, producers can strengthen both their operations and the water resources their communities rely on tomorrow.

Smarter Water. Stronger Yields. MIP 2025.

Central Minnesota irrigators, this one’s built for you. The Minnesota Irrigator Program (MIP) returns Nov. 18–19, 2025 in Becker, MN, with a hands-on, research-based workshop focused on making every inch of water—and every dollar—work harder on your farm.

What you’ll get out of it

Over two focused days with University of Minnesota Extension specialists and industry partners, you’ll:

  • Dial in scheduling to optimize water use and protect yields.
  • Read your soils to better predict irrigation demand under changing conditions.
  • Tap into fresh research on irrigation and agronomy you can apply the next day.
  • Run the numbers on practice changes and equipment to maximize ROI.

Why it matters in Central Minnesota

From sandy soils to tight planting windows, our region asks a lot from pivots. MIP blends local data, practical field demos, and economics so you leave with a confident plan for 2026—grounded in what works here.

Credentials & cost

  • CCA CEUs available
  • Meets a requirement for the MAWQCP Irrigation Endorsement
  • $50 covers both days, with light breakfast and lunch included

When & where

Tuesday–Wednesday, November 18–19, 2025
Becker, Minnesota

Ready to register?

Lock in your spot now: z.umn.edu/MIP2025

MDA Awarded $11 Million to Advance Innovative Irrigation Practices

Investment will support groundwater conservation and protect water resources across 25 counties

St. Paul, MN: The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), in partnership with local and regional organizations, has been awarded $11.16 million through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to expand conservation practices on irrigated agricultural land across the state.

The funding, provided through the USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), will support a five-year project focused on improving irrigation efficiency, protecting groundwater resources, and promoting sustainable nitrogen management in 25 counties statewide. This year’s funding builds upon $3.5 million awarded to MDA for similar projects in 2021.

“This partnership with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is invaluable to MDA’s mission to preserve and protect Minnesota’s water resources,” said Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen. “Irrigation is critical for many of our farmers, and this funding allows us to support producers with the tools and technology they need to conserve water and improve outcomes.”

“This project and these partners are a great example of what the Regional Conservation Partnership Program can accomplish,” said Keith Kloubec, NRCS Assistant State Conservationist for Programs. “The group’s past success has already delivered measurable impacts, and we look forward to continuing this work to increase adoption of irrigation technologies that benefit both water quality and farm sustainability.”

Led by the MDA, the project will provide financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers using irrigation systems. Efforts will focus on:

  • Promoting precision irrigation technologies
  • Encouraging improved nitrogen management
  • Supporting optimized irrigation water management
  • Protecting groundwater quality and quantity
  • Expanding the adoption of conservation practices on existing irrigated farmland

Financial assistance for producers is expected to become available in late 2025. The program will be administered in collaboration with 26 Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs), covering the following counties: Anoka, Becker, Benton, Cass, Clay, Dakota, Douglas, Grant, Hubbard, Isanti, Kandiyohi, Meeker, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Pope, Sherburne, Stearns, Stevens, Swift, Todd, Wadena, Washington, Wilkin, and Wright.

In addition to direct support for producers, the project also will:

  • Build technical expertise among SWCD, NRCS, and industry staff
  • Support training and peer learning across agencies and partners
  • Host field days and demonstration events showcasing irrigation technologies

This initiative brings together a broad coalition of partners, including NRCS, local SWCDs, Central Lakes College Ag & Energy Center, AgCentric – Minnesota State, University of Minnesota, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, state agencies, and irrigator associations and industry partners. Together, these organizations will help advance Minnesota’s leadership in water stewardship and agricultural innovation.

For more information on the Regional Conservation Partnership Program and this project, visit the RCPP website.

Your Water, Your Future: Join the Groundwater Conversation

💧 Don’t Miss This: Groundwater + Permitting Update from DNR — April 18 Virtual Session 💧

Hosted by AgriGrowth | In partnership with the Minnesota DNR
🗓 Friday, April 18 | 🕙 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. | 💻 Virtual

Groundwater is the lifeblood of agriculture in Central Minnesota—and the way it’s managed has a direct impact on your ability to plan, irrigate, and grow. With groundwater stress on the rise due to drought, climate shifts, and increasing demand, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and engaged.

That’s why we’re encouraging all members of the Central Minnesota Irrigators to register for an upcoming virtual conversation with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, hosted by AgriGrowth.

Why You Should Attend

This session will cover critical issues that affect your operation, including:

  • ✅ The current state of Minnesota’s aquifers
  • ✅ How groundwater stress is impacting water appropriation permits
  • ✅ What changes the DNR is making to improve permit timelines and communication
  • ✅ What the future of groundwater policy could mean for irrigators in our region

A Must-Attend for Central Minnesota Producers

Whether you’ve dealt with permitting delays, are applying for a new permit, or simply want to understand how groundwater policy will affect your farm’s future, this event is for you.

This is also a key opportunity to make sure the needs of Central Minnesota irrigators are heard at the state level.

Event Details

📅 When: Friday, April 18
🕙 Time: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
💻 Where: Online (link sent after registration)
🔗 Register Here: Click to Register

Let’s Show Up & Speak Up

This event is about more than just information—it’s about advocacy and involvement. We encourage you to:

  • Register today
  • Share with your employees, neighbors, and peers
  • Bring your questions and concerns to the table

Let’s make sure Central Minnesota voices are heard loud and clear when it comes to groundwater and the future of irrigation.

💧 Central Minnesota Irrigators: Support HF 2613 / SF 2793 for Drought Flexibility and Soil Health 🌾

📄 What Is HF 2613 / SF 2793?
Two bills currently moving through the Minnesota Legislature—HF 2613 in the House and SF 2793 in the Senate—could bring much-needed flexibility to irrigators in Central Minnesota and beyond.

If passed, this legislation would:

  • ✅ Allow transfer of unused permitted gallons between irrigators
  • ✅ Permit use of excess water during drought conditions
  • ✅ Authorize additional water use for cover crops, helping improve soil structure and long-term productivity

This isn’t about using more water—it’s about using our existing permits smarter during critical times.

🚜 Why It Matters in Central Minnesota
We know how quickly conditions can change in this region. Drought stress can hit hard—and when it does, even unused water can be off-limits due to rigid permitting rules.

HF 2613 / SF 2793 would allow irrigators like us to:

  • Shift water where it’s needed most
  • Protect yields during dry spells
  • Strengthen soil health with properly irrigated cover crops
  • Collaborate with neighbors more effectively in times of need

This is a practical solution tailored to the realities of Central Minnesota’s agriculture.

📢 Time to Speak Up: Legislators Need to Hear from Irrigators
These bills are currently in committee. Your voice—especially as someone who deals with irrigation daily—can make the difference.

📞 Call or email your legislators and say:

“As a Central Minnesota irrigator, I support HF 2613 / SF 2793. This bill helps us manage drought responsibly, protect our crops, and build soil health using water we’ve already been permitted to use.”

🔍 Not sure who represents you?
MN State Senate

MN State House of Representatives

Let’s make sure Central Minnesota’s irrigators have the tools we need to stay productive and resilient.
Support HF 2613 / SF 2793 today.

Minnesota House Tied 67-67 After Special Election in District 40B

A special election in Minnesota House District 40B has reshaped the state’s legislative balance, ending the Republican majority and setting the stage for a deadlocked chamber. The election was required after a court ruling disqualified the original winner due to residency issues.

Election Results

DFL candidate David Gottfried won convincingly, defeating GOP candidate Paul Wikstrom by a margin of over 5,000 votes:

✅ David Gottfried (DFL): 9,352 votes (70%)
❌ Paul Wikstrom (GOP): 3,966 votes (30%)

This outcome aligns with the district’s strong Democratic lean, as the original November 2024 election also saw a 30-point victory for the DFL candidate. The election results will be officially certified in the coming days.

Impact on the Minnesota House

🗓 Swearing-In Date: Rep.-elect David Gottfried is expected to take office on Monday, March 17.

⚖️ House Control Now 67-67:
The Minnesota House was previously controlled by the GOP (67-66), but with Gottfried’s win, the chamber is now evenly split between Democrats and Republicans.

🤝 Bipartisan Power-Sharing Agreement Begins:
With the chamber now tied, a February 6, 2025, bipartisan agreement will take effect, ensuring shared governance in the House. Key provisions include:

  • Rep. Lisa Demuth (GOP) will remain Speaker through December 2026.
  • House committees will have co-chairs (one from each party) and equal representation from both sides.
  • Bills must receive support from at least one member of the opposite party to advance out of committee.
  • To pass legislation on the House floor, a minimum of 68 votes is required, meaning bipartisan cooperation is necessary.

Legislative Implications

📌 No More GOP-Only Bills:
Since February, the Republican-led House had been advancing its own bills through committees, but they lacked the votes to pass them on the floor. With the House now split evenly, the GOP can no longer move legislation alone, forcing both parties to negotiate.

📊 What’s Next? Budget Talks Begin
The House now turns its focus to budget planning. With the February economic forecast released on March 6, lawmakers will begin crafting a two-year state budget for July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2027. Given the new power-sharing agreement, every step of the process will require bipartisan consensus.

🔎 Stay tuned for updates as the Minnesota House adapts to this new era of shared governance!

Legislative Update from IAM: MN Supreme Court Ruling Creates Political Gridlock at the Capitol

The Minnesota Supreme Court has issued a unanimous 6-0 ruling, determining that a quorum in the Minnesota House of Representatives requires 68 legislators—a decision that effectively nullifies all legislative actions taken by House Republicans since the start of the session on January 14.

As a key stakeholder in Minnesota’s agricultural and irrigation policies, Central Minnesota Irrigators is closely monitoring how this political standoff will impact legislation affecting water management, conservation funding, and rural infrastructure. This information comes from a legislative update from the Irrigators Association of Minnesota and their lobbyists, and their article can be read here.

Background: A Session Stuck in Stalemate

On January 14, the Minnesota House of Representatives convened, but all 66 House Democrats were absent, leaving 67 Republicans present in the chamber. Secretary of State Steve Simon presided over the session and ruled that the House lacked a quorum, stating that 68 members were required.

House Republicans, disagreeing with this interpretation, proceeded with House business—electing Rep. Lisa Demuth (R-Cold Spring) as Speaker, establishing committees, and introducing legislation.

For over a week, House Republicans held daily floor sessions, but Democrats refused to attend. The legal battle over the quorum requirement escalated to the Minnesota Supreme Court, where oral arguments were heard on January 23.

The Supreme Court’s Ruling

The court sided with the Democratic position, ruling that:

✅ A quorum requires 68 legislators, not 67.
❌ All House Republican-led actions since January 14 are invalid, including Speaker Demuth’s election, committee assignments, and bill introductions.
⚖️ The ruling favors the Democrats’ negotiating position but does not resolve the stalemate at the Capitol.
⏳ Until at least one Democrat appears in the chamber, legislative business cannot proceed.

What Happens Next?

Secretary of State Steve Simon has been presiding over House sessions, but without Democrats present, he has not declared a quorum. This means that no official business can be conducted until a power-sharing agreement is reached or until the March 3 special election fills the vacant District 40B seat.

If the Democratic candidate wins the 40B special election, the House would be split 67-67, potentially shifting legislative dynamics. However, until at least 68 members are present, the House remains in a deadlock.

Impacts on Central Minnesota Agriculture & Irrigation Policy

With House business stalled, key agricultural and irrigation-related policies may be delayed, including:

🚜 Agricultural funding and conservation programs that require legislative approval.
💧 Irrigation policy discussions that impact water management in Central Minnesota.
🏛️ Infrastructure and rural development initiatives that depend on House committee action.

The Central Minnesota Irrigators will continue tracking this situation closely and will provide updates as developments unfold.

📢 Stay informed! Follow us for the latest legislative updates and insights on how these decisions impact Minnesota’s irrigation community.