What does a fertilizer management plan minimize?

A fertilizer management plan is designed primarily to optimize the application of fertilizers in agricultural practices, with a significant focus on minimizing environmental impact. This plan outlines how, when, and how much fertilizer to apply to achieve the desired crop yield while reducing the risk of nutrient runoff into waterways, which can lead to pollution and the degradation of aquatic ecosystems. By carefully managing fertilizer inputs, farmers can help maintain soil health, protect local water sources from nutrient overload, and ultimately contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

The other choices relate to different aspects of agricultural production. While a fertilizer management plan could indirectly affect labor costs and water usage by promoting more efficient practices, its primary goal is centered on reducing negative environmental effects associated with fertilizer application, such as soil and water contamination. Crop diversity is more about the variety of crops grown in a given area and does not directly relate to the objective of a fertilizer management plan. Therefore, minimizing environmental impact stands out as the key focus of such a plan.