INDIANAPOLIS, IN - The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) announced the selection of three sets of agricultural retailers and their farmer partners as the 2025 4R Advocates. These grower-retailer partners are being recognized for their outstanding commitment to implementing nutrient management practices grounded in 4R principles: applying the Right fertilizer source, at the Right rate, Right time, and Right place.

“Our 2025 4R Advocates are leading the charge in three unique regions when it comes to sustainability and stewardship in agriculture,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch, speaking at TFI’s Agronomy Conference and Expo in Indianapolis, IN. “Their dedication to the 4Rs supports healthy soils, strong yields, and a more resilient food system. We’re honored to recognize these grower-retailer teams for advancing science-based practices that benefit both the environment and the bottom line.” 

Now in its 13th year, the 4R Advocate program showcases the tangible benefits of 4R Nutrient Stewardship through real-world application and field-level results. The 4R framework is designed to provide farmers with research-based, practical tools to improve crop productivity, enhance environmental outcomes, and promote sustainable farming for future generations.

Representing a wide range of crops and regions, the 2025 4R Advocates will engage in TFI-led outreach and education efforts throughout the year. These activities include speaking at on-farm field days, industry panels, and local engagement opportunities to help share their stories and encourage broader adoption of 4R practices. 

2025 4R Advocates:

• Retailers: Felipe Aguilar and Fernando Ceja: Helm, CA – Wilbur-Ellis Company
• Farmer: Sal Parra, Jr.: Helm, CA – Burford Ranch; Coyula Farms
• Retailer: Anthony Furlin: Trenton, MO – MFA Inc.
• Farmers: Mark and Kristi Urich: Laredo, MO – Urich Farms
• Retailer: Taylor Ivy: Stuart, FL – Nutrien Ag Solutions
• Farmer: Elizabeth Malek: Naples, FL – Lipman Family Farms

The 4R Advocate program is a key element of TFI’s efforts to raise awareness and adoption of 4R Nutrient Stewardship practices. This initiative underlines the critical role of efficient nutrient utilization in sustainable crop production systems. To learn more about 4R practices, please visit the TFI website.

Additionally, TFI announced in June that 65 million acres of U.S. cropland are under 4R nutrient management practices, well ahead of an industry goal of reaching 70 million acres by 2030. A 4R acre is defined as an acre of U.S. cropland under management using 4R practices, such as crediting organic sources and removal rates, variable rate technology, split applications, the use of cover crops, accounting for weather during application, etc.