摘要：Many factors are affecting the fertilizer industry. Fertilizer usage in North Dakota, which increased steadily from 1950 to 1980, has leveled off. Regulation of the fertilizer supply industry is increasing which typically increases the cost of doing business. Environmental concerns have increased regulation of farmers' use of fertilizers. Alternative farm management strategies that reduce or eliminate commercial fertilizer use have arisen as a response to these concerns. Because of increasing regulation, farmers who previously applied fertilizers and pesticides may now consider custom application of these products rather than complying with regulations themselves. These changes have stimulated discussion regarding the impact of sales density, size of dry fertilizer storage facility, custom delivery application equipment, and size of sales area on distribution costs, especially for local cooperatives considering additional services, improvements, construction of new facilities, or consolidation.
