GRAND ISLAND — The Central Platte Natural Resources District (NRD) is encouraging agricultural producers to enroll in its new Nitrogen Reduction Incentive Program.
This initiative offers financial incentives to producers who reduce nitrogen applications by up to 40 pounds or 15 percent, whichever is less. Eligible crops for this program include corn, sugar beets, and potatoes.
PRIORITY AREAS
• Priority A: Phases II and III of Central Platte NRD’s Groundwater Management Program. Payment: $15/acre
• Priority B: Not in Priority A but certified to irrigate. Payment: $12/acre
• Priority C: Remainder of the state. Payment: $10/acre
The program can be combined with offers from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, The Nature Conservancy and other entities.
Producers have the flexibility to determine how to reduce nitrogen applications and will work with the NRD to implement the practices.
IMPORTANT DATES
Applications Due: Applications can be submitted via email or online by January 15, 2025.
Documentation Deadline: Producers have until January 15, 2026, to document and show the reduction in their nitrogen application to be eligible for payments.
Web link for documents: https://dnr.nebraska.gov/lb-1368-nitrogen-reduction-incentive-program
For general questions about the program visit https://www.cpnrd.org/water-resources/groundwater-quality/ or contact Courtney Widup at (308) 395-7605 or widup@cpnrd.org.
Attachment: Map of Central Platte NRD’s Groundwater Quality Management Program
