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Crops Information

Agricultural Inspectors by Illinois EPA Region

Fertilizers

Fertilizers are nutrients—most often nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium—that are added to the soil in order to aid in the growth of crops. However, excess nutrients from fertilizers can become an environmental hazard when water runoff from rain carries the nutrients into the water cycle.

For more information on fertilizers, please visit:

Pesticides

Pesticides are a either a solitary substance—or a mixture of substances—that are applied to crops in order to prevent crop damage from insects and other pests. To learn more about pesticides, please visit:

Regulatory guidance for livestock, grain and crop farms, as well as horticultural green industry

EZregs will provide more detailed information on applications of regulations for livestock and crop farms, turfgrass and lawn care operations.  The site contains a variety of regulations related to environmental protection, safe use of agricultural chemicals, livestock facility construction, management, and sitting. Information pertaining to historic preservation and endangered species preservation are also included.

Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Grant Program

Nonpoint source pollution occurs when water run-off picks up pollutants and carries the pollutants to lakes, rivers, and groundwater. In agriculture, these pollutants are typically pesticides and excess nutrients from fertilizers. The NPS Control Grant Program—often times called Section 319, named in reference to Section 319 in the Clean Water Act—has grants available for those looking to implement corrective or preventative projects. For further information, please visit:

Nutrient Management

Nutrient Management is the management of the amount, source, placement, form, and timing of the application of plant nutrients and soil amendments.

Waste Utilization

Waste Utilization is the use of agricultural waste, such as manure and wastewater or other organic residues, on land in an environmentally acceptable manner while maintaining or improving soil, air, water, and plant resources.