By Scout Nelson
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) has been awarded two federal grants totaling $1.7 million to further its research in environmental sustainability, specifically targeting nitrogen management for sugar beet production and the practice of alley cropping. These funds are part of a larger $90 million allocation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service through its Conservation Innovation Grants program.
The first grant, amounting to $1,116,149, will support UNL’s efforts to develop environmentally sustainable nitrogen management practices for sugar beet production in both Nebraska and Colorado. This research is critical for improving crop yields while minimizing environmental impact.
In addition, UNL researchers will utilize $682,335 in USDA funding to explore alley cropping, an agroforestry technique that involves planting trees or shrubs alongside crops. This method is being studied as a sustainable land use strategy that could benefit the Midwest's agricultural landscape.
Rob Lawson, NRCS state conservationist for Nebraska, emphasized the significance of these grants, stating, “UNL’s longstanding history of being one of the country’s premier land-grant research institutions, specifically when it comes to innovation in agronomical research and sustainability practices throughout the state of Nebraska’s diverse ag markets, makes them a solid recipient to administer these Conservation Innovation Grant funds.”
Lawson further noted that the grants "will benefit Nebraska producers and further UNL’s studies in western sugar beet production and alley cropping’s potential as a sustainable land use strategy." This funding underscores UNL’s commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and supporting the state’s diverse farming communities.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-luiscarlosjimenezi
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Sugar Beets