Amid the wind and rain of Midwestern April, the Farm Bill faithful may detect stirrings of a possible start to the long, difficult reauthorization process (Clayton, April 16, 2024; Hagstrom, April 17, 2024; Baethge, April 17, 2024; Abbott, April 16, 2024; Downs, April 8, 2024). Alexander Pope famously wrote that “Hope springs eternal in the human breast” and the line continues to resonate (Pope, 1732; Matteo, March 26, 2022). The challenges inherent in soil erosion seem also to spring eternal and this article continues that discussion by incorporating an exploration of the research on nitrogen losses, seeking to further build risk-based perspectives (farmdoc daily, March 14, 2024; March 21, 2024; March 28, 2024; see also, December 7, 2023; January 4, 2024; and January 15, 2024). In the spirit of the season, it may be hoped that applying research to develop a wider, more comprehensive perspective on farm risk—one that incorporates natural resource risks—can inform the development of more effective farm polices.
