Teresa, Author at The Fertilizer Institute

A Lifetime of Passion and Innovation in Fertilizer: An Interview with Rob Mikkelsen

Rob Mikkelsen, the Director of Agronomic Services for Yara in North America, has dedicated his career to the fertilizer industry, working passionately to advance plant nutrition and soil health. “I’ve had the pleasure of being involved in the fertilizer industry and plant nutrition for many decades over my entire career,” Mikkelsen says. His enthusiasm for his work is clear as he reflects on the ways the industry has provided “real value to the human family with an abundance of healthy food.”

Over the years, Mikkelsen has witnessed significant developments in the fertilizer industry, particularly in sustainable practices. He notes, “We’ve taken a fresh look at protecting our natural resources of soil and air. And it’s really exciting to be part of that industry that’s really trying to be good stewards of the Earth.”

One of the most influential concepts Mikkelsen has helped promote is the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework: applying the right source, at the right time, in the right place, and at the right rate. “When you get all of those things right, that’s when the magic happens,” he explains. The 4Rs bridge the gap between nutrient management, environmental science, and the economic viability of farming. This approach has been globally impactful, allowing farmers to produce healthy, abundant crops while preserving natural resources.

Right Source

Right Rate

Right Time

Right Place

Mikkelsen played a key role in developing and distributing the 4R framework globally as the Vice President of Communications for the International Plant Nutrition Institute. “We formalized all of this science into something that could be easily explained to the public and to other agronomists, which was the 4Rs,” he recalls. Collaborating with organizations like The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) and the International Fertilizer Association, he helped make the 4R principles accessible to farmers worldwide, promoting sustainable practices that boost productivity while preserving the environment. The framework has been translated into multiple languages and continues to expand its reach, including active programs in Africa. “There’s an active program in Africa right now disseminating the 4R message,” Mikkelsen notes, emphasizing the initiative’s lasting global impact.

Reflecting on his career journey, Mikkelsen encourages students and young professionals to consider the many opportunities available in agriculture, particularly in plant nutrition and fertilizer. “As my career has developed, I’ve realized that there are so many really smart and successful and motivated professionals that work in the fertilizer industry,” he says. Mikkelsen believes that the industry offers exciting and fulfilling careers that should be “highly sought after” for their engaging nature and positive impact.

Mikkelsen is particularly enthusiastic about his current role with Yara, where he continues to drive sustainable agricultural practices. “Joining Yara has been an incredible opportunity for me to work with a global leader in plant nutrition, and I’m excited to be part of a company that’s truly committed to both feeding the world and protecting the planet,” he shares. His passion for sustainable solutions aligns perfectly with Yara’s mission to develop innovative approaches that benefit both farmers and the environment.

Looking forward, Mikkelsen sees a bright future for the fertilizer industry, driven by new technological advancements such as artificial intelligence. “We have so many new tools in the laboratory. We have the insights of artificial intelligence, which is allowing us to look at huge data sets and to draw conclusions from data that we were not able to do before.”

Mikkelsen also emphasizes the life-changing impact that fertilizer can have, especially in regions where small-scale farmers struggle to survive. “I’ve seen how a bucket full of fertilizer and some enhanced genetics in the seed can completely transform the trajectory of a family,” he explains. Fertilizer not only improves crop yields but also empowers families to send their children to school, creating a ripple effect of positive change in their communities.

It’s easy to overlook how this miracle product really changes lives. When there is a humble family struggling for survival in Africa and then to see how fertilizer changes their farm to growing a surplus of food, and then they have extra money for their family’s future. That is just so satisfying thing to see and to know that perhaps I had a small part in making this happen.
Rob Mikkelsen

As Mikkelsen reflects on his career, it’s clear that his passion for plant nutrition and sustainable agriculture continues to drive him. “I’ve really enjoyed my career. I have worked with wonderful people and it’s something I look forward to every day,” he says. His legacy in the fertilizer industry will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of agronomists and environmental stewards.

Listen to Rob’s Walkout Song Here:

ARA and TFI Joint Statement on Tariffs

3D earth graphic symbolizing global trade, vector illustration.

ARA and The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) issued the following joint statement regarding the Trump administration’s announcement on tariffs on imports of Canadian goods:

“ARA and TFI acknowledge the Trump administration’s commitment to strengthening American industry, including the agriculture economy. However, we are concerned about the impact of the 25 percent tariffs on Canadian imports to farmers and the entire agriculture supply chain.

“The 25 percent tariffs on critical fertilizer imports from Canada, including potash, ammonium sulfate, nitrogen fertilizers and sulfur will drive up the cost of production for U.S. farmers. These costs ripple throughout the agriculture community, ultimately leading to higher prices at the grocery store.

“We urge continued engagement between the U.S. and Canada to resolve the outstanding border security issues, and barring a quick agreement, we request the Trump administration to provide a strategic carve out from the tariffs, which should also include critical minerals designation for potash as well as phosphate.”

TFI Statement on Implementation of U.S. Tariffs on Imports of Canadian Potash and Other Fertilizers

Arlington, VA – Following the announcement by President Donald Trump that tariffs originally announced in February are now in effect for Canadian imports, including fertilizer that is essential to successful harvests and affordable food for American families, The Fertilizer Institute President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch released the following statement:

“The Fertilizer Institute remains committed to working with the Trump Administration to promote a strong, resilient fertilizer industry that supports U.S. agriculture and ensures affordable food prices for American families. A stable and affordable supply of fertilizers is critical to maintaining the global competitiveness of U.S. farmers, strengthening rural economies, and keeping food prices in check.

“TFI continues to urge the Administration to provide a strategic carveout for Canadian fertilizers from these tariffs, including through designation as critical minerals. With the spring planting season fast approaching and U.S. agriculture continuing to face serious headwinds, maintaining reliable and cost-effective fertilizer supply chains is essential to ensuring a productive harvest and protecting American farmers from unnecessary financial strain.

“Today, 85% of our potash imports come from Canada. Potash is an irreplaceable component of modern agricultural production, and the U.S. has historically sourced nearly all the potash used by farmers from international markets. Potash deposits are geographically specific and mine development in the U.S. is time intensive and costly.

“Additionally, Canada supplies U.S. growers with nearly 10% of their nitrogen fertilizer needs, accounting for 25% of total nitrogen fertilizer imports, and nearly 20% of sulfur consumed by U.S. farmers and others.

“An open, fair, predictable, and transparent trade environment between the U.S. and Canada is vital to supporting a strong, competitive fertilizer industry that meets the needs of American growers. Restrictions on this critical cross-border trade will drive up costs for farmers, which could ultimately be felt at the grocery store by consumers.

“TFI recognizes that these tariffs are part of a broader policy agenda, and we encourage ongoing dialogue between the U.S. and Canada. We thank President Trump for his continued engagement with the fertilizer industry and the agriculture community, and we remain committed to working with the Administration and Congress to ensure the long-term security and stability of the U.S. fertilizer supply chain.”

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst.