April 02, 2025

In-field perspective of microbial nitrogen

30 minutes

We are virtually traveling in-field to learn more about microbial nitrogen and the impact biologicals and biostimulants can have on your crops. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest, Rick Molenaar, discuss the following topics:

Evolution of technology in crop production

Gene-editing microbes

Current advancements in microbial nitrogen

Impressive corn silage research

Key growing stages to focus on

ROI benefit of nitrogen management

How microbes can help dairy farmers

Precision agricultural equipment

Microbial nitrogen technologies to support GHG emissions

Challenges

Future of nitrogen fertilizer management

Special thanks to Pivot Bio for sponsoring this episode.

About the guest

Rick Molenaar is a regional agronomy lead for Pivot Bio. He is an agronomy professional with a proven track record of success in leading field agronomist teams, conducting on-farm trials of pre-commercial biological products, and collaborating with land grant universities. His expertise spans Midwest row crop production, where he utilizes agriculture-based GIS programs to develop innovative variable rate maps for seeding, fertility, liming, and manure application, optimizing both crop yield and sustainability.

Resources

Connect with Rick Molenaar on LinkedIn

Scientific Reports: Genetic remodeling of soil diazotrophs enables partial replacement of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer with biological nitrogen fixation in maize, Purdue University & University of Wisconsin - Madison

Agronomy Journal: Soil inoculation with nitrogen-fixing bacteria to supplement maize fertilizer need, University of Illinois

Video Interview: Science Validated: Purdue & UW-Madison Confirm PROVEN 40’s Mode of Action

Past Dairy Stream episode with Co-Founder Karsten Temme: How microbes are shaping the future of crop nutrition

Past Dairy Stream episode with Dr. Connor Sible of the University of Illinois: Understanding biologicals and biostimulants

Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream. Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship.

This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing [email protected].

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