RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Biases in Nutrient Management Planning JF Land Economics JO Land Econ FD University of Wisconsin Press SP 186 OP 200 DO 10.3368/le.85.1.186 VO 85 IS 1 A1 Chad Lawley A1 Erik Lichtenberg A1 Doug Parker YR 2009 UL http://le.uwpress.org/content/85/1/186.abstract AB Nutrient management planning is seen as a means of improving efficiency and reducing environmental problems, however, these gains may not be realized if plans overstate fertilizer requirements. Using data from a survey of Maryland farmers, we find that nutrient management planning was adopted more frequently by larger operations raising grain or cattle, but not by those on more environmentally sensitive land. Independent consultants and fertilizer dealers were more likely to recommend increases in fertilizer use, consistent with fears about bias. Farmers preparing their own plans were more likely to recommend decreases in fertilizer use, suggesting the presence of hidden information. (JEL Q53, Q18)