As part of our data analysis components of the Nitrogen and Irrigation Initiative, we analyzed nitrogen applications rates across farm sizes in California's Central Coast.
Using data from the Irrigated Lands Regulatory Program, we evaluated how nitrogen application rates vary across farm size. The analysis was conducted to address a request from the Second Statewide Agricultural Expert Panel, convened by the California State Water Resources Control Board. We published a Technical Memo and presented to the Ag Expert Panel on January 6, 2026.
This analysis was part of the NII's broader effort to use advanced statistical methods to understand trends in nitrogen management practices and application rates in the Central Valley and Central Coast, which can inform improved education, research, and extension programs that improve nitrogen management.
Contributors
Divya Prakash, Erik Porse, Mehdi Nemati, Rachel Shellabarger, Ariel Dinar