Illinois remains an island of calm in the middle of a storm of nutrient regulations and litigation in surrounding states.  This is no coincidence--this is because our industry has been extremely proactive in addressing the nutrient challenges with research, outreach, transparency, relationships and most of all--stewardship.  As the fall fertilizer season approaches, IFCA is asking our members to take the 4R Code of Practice Pledge so that we can demonstrate to water officials, regulatory agencies and environmental groups that we continue to take the necessary steps to improve nutrient utilization and minimize the environmental impact of nutrient use.  IFCA plans to share a list of the IFCA members who have taken the pledge with our fellow nutrient stakeholders.  They are well aware of our efforts and commend us for our leadership.  All we are asking is that you commit to educate your customers and recommend common sense nutrient application practices, all of which are outlined in the Code of Practice.  Click here to be directed to the IFCA "Keep it 4R Crop" website where you can review the 4R Code of Practice and click on an icon to "Take the Pledge."  If we wish to avoid nutrient regulation, we have to be willing to stand behind solid nutrient utilization recommendations in a visible and meaningful way.  Thanks for helping in this vital effort; being in the front of a major issue can sometimes feel uncomfortable, but it offers the best vantage point of the train that is coming down the track.