Strategies to Counter High Energy Costs

December 9, 2005 -- A U.S. Department of Agriculture Energy Initiative was launched this week to help farmers and ranchers with high energy costs. 

Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns unveiled many conservation measures that can significantly reduce fuel use and other energy-related costs. He revealed that conservation practices, such as no-till, can save farmers 217 million gallons of fuel and up to $480 million per year, while other practices such as irrigation water management can reduce diesel consumption by 80 million gallons and save farmers up to $180 million per year. 

Key conservation practices include crop residue management, nutrient management, irrigation water management, precision agriculture, pesticide management, prescribed grazing systems and windbreaks/shelterbelts.