True Sustainability

This year has already been a challenge for farmers – with soaring costs, erratic weather and many other hurdles to clear. Now more than ever, efficient use of resources is vital for growers seeking a good return on investment. Maintaining healthy soil and being laser-focused on strong plants with proper nutrition are vital to strong yields come harvest time. Fortunately, there are tools out there to achieve these results.“One of the things I’m most excited about is the very real progress farmers can make improving their soil,” said John Kelly, co-founder and lead agronomist at Redox Bio-Nutrients. “Some of those improvements can be made immediately and have good returns on their investment.”Redox has seen steady growth since its inception in the early 1990s, with products sold to farmers in more than 40 states and 32 countries.American Agriculture is ever-changing, with greater emphasis over the years towards a healthy growing environment and sustainable future, while being conscious of a grower’s return on investment.“We’ve seen an evolution since the beginning of our business, to going beyond just basic practices that have been in place for 40-60 years, to looking at innovative ways of growing crops,” Kelly said. “Not only from irrigation management – from widespread adoption of controlled irrigation systems - to focus on soil health and fertility inputs. Not only that, but adoption of high-tech practices that improve grower’s bottom lines.”He said growers that are more efficient with their inputs are better positioned to persevere through years like this that are rife with uncertainty.“Growers that are thriving in this difficult environment are those at pay close attention to not what they bring in, but what they keep,” Kelly said. “The return on investment, what inputs and what practices will accomplish that best are the ways to thrive in this environment. As we look for efficiencies, we’re looking to get the very best net income per acre possible.”Like so many that are helping keep abundant, affordable food on dinner tables, Kelly said he’s passionate about keeping farmers farming for generations to come.“I love what I do,” he said. “I feel very, very fortunate that I’m able to work, not only at Redox with very wonderful people, but the folks we associate within the industry. It’s great and I never get tired of that…. It’s wonderful when we’re able to improve a grower, and the distributor reps, improve their bottom line, while also making a positive impact on the environment.”