The newest Benchmark..
Agriculture is undergoing a significant transformation. With new data-driven approaches, we can now benchmark every field or pivot of crops, providing farmers with a measurable way to separate their products from competitors. As the demand for sustainability grows, more farmers and processors are looking to reduce or eliminate fumigation in potato and onion production.
By leveraging the Environmental Impact Quotient (EIQ) — a metric developed by Cornell University—we can assess the total impact of chemical applications on the environment, including effects on pollinators, wildlife, human health, and water systems.
The Hidden Cost of Fumigation
Fumigation is widely used in potato and onion production to manage soil-borne pathogens and nematodes. However, the cost of applying fumigants ranges from $250 to $400 per acre, and the long-term effects on soil health are detrimental. Excessive fumigation disrupts soil microbiology, reducing beneficial organisms and leading to increased reliance on synthetic inputs over time.
Below are the EIQ scores for commonly used fumigants at their standard application rates:
| Fumigation Product | Application Rate (Gallons/Acre) | Field Use Score | Total EIQ Score |
| K-Pam | 15 | 26.6 | 2,189 |
| Vapam | 15 | 26.6 | 1,699 |
| Telone II | 15 | 27.8 | 3,285 |
| Strike | 10 | 42.4 | 5,830 |
| Sectagon 42 | 40 | 25.17 | 4,386 |
A New Way to Evaluate Crop Inputs: The EIQ System
The EIQ system provides a black-and-white measurement of environmental impact. Every chemical application—whether fumigant, herbicide, insecticide, nematicide, or fungicide—adds to a field’s total EIQ score.
This is similar to golf: the lower the score, the better. By setting a baseline EIQ at the beginning of the season, farmers can track and manage their impact throughout the growing cycle.
Moving Toward a Data-Driven Approach
At Regen Ag Nation, we are working to significantly reduce EIQ scores in crop production by promoting data-backed decision-making rather than calendar-based fumigation and spraying schedules. Some key strategies include:
- Using Soft Chemistries: Alternative, biologically friendly solutions can replace harsh synthetic sprays while maintaining pest and disease control.
- Field History Analysis: Understanding past crop rotations, soil health, and pest pressures allows for more targeted and efficient interventions.
- Benchmarking & Certification: By tracking EIQ scores, farmers can position themselves as leaders in sustainable agriculture, differentiating their crops in the marketplace.
The Future of Sustainable Crop Production
Processors and consumers alike are demanding cleaner, more sustainable farming practices. Reducing fumigation and replacing harsh synthetic chemicals with softer, regenerative alternatives is not just an environmental responsibility—it’s a market opportunity.
By embracing EIQ benchmarking, farmers can prove their sustainability efforts, command premium prices, and contribute to a more resilient agricultural system.
https://cals.cornell.edu/new-york-state-integrated-pest-management/risk-assessment/eiq
