A whopping 63% of the total surplus nitrogen balance in U.S. croplands comes from only 24% of cropland area, finds new UVM research covered by NPR stations, Civil Eats, Salon, and more.

The study, published in Environmental Research Letters, identifies 20 key “hotspots of opportunity” for targeting nitrogen reduction efforts. In total, the hotspots comprise 759 counties across more than 30 states.

“This study provides a new perspective on where to focus efforts to tackle America’s nitrogen problems,” said lead author and Gund Fellow Eric Roy. “Change is most feasible in these specific areas due to underlying social and economic factors.”

Other mentions include Iowa Public Radio, Anthropocene Magazine, Earth.com, Harvest Public Media, Ag Daily Clips, Air Quality News, and more.