Improving Water and Nitrogen Use

By Scout Nelson

Registration is now open for the 2026 Nebraska Master Irrigator discussion series; an educational opportunity focused on improving irrigation and nitrogen management while strengthening soil and water stewardship. These sessions encourage open discussion among producers, conservation partners, and ag professionals on how to grow more with less.

The program is sponsored by the University of Nebraska Extension and USDA NRCS. The goal is to help operations get more value from existing equipment, improve margins, and protect Nebraska’s soil and water resources today and into the future.

Participants can register online at
https://web.cvent.com/event/801987fd-443e-4eb8-b515-4b144b8b1031/register?rp=b3a6b8a4-ddab-4931-bd66-b1857f4fd9a9

The discussion series is structured around two core themes. Day one focuses on the Irrigation Challenge, while day two centers on the Nitrogen Challenge. Topics include improving equipment efficiency, building soil health through regenerative practices, saving water and pumping costs, and reducing fertilizer losses. Sessions also explore support tools, new technology, and in season nitrogen decision making.

Attendees will hear insights from farm research and discussions with participants involved in the TAPS program. The sessions also highlight incentive opportunities and practical tools that support better nutrient and water management decisions.

Meetings run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and are scheduled across multiple Nebraska locations. Grand Island sessions will be held February 25 and March 2. Beatrice meetings are set for February 27 and March 18. Norfolk will host discussions on March 6 and March 11. North Platte sessions are scheduled for December 5 and March 13.

Industry partners and panelists include Arable, Bish, CropX, Delta Plastics, Goanna Ag, Komet, Lindsey, Nelson, Prairie Fire Ag Solutions, Reinke, Senninger, Sentinel, Valley, T L, BioAg Solutions, and Yield Plus Agronomics. These partners support the program and sponsor lunch during the events.

The discussions qualify for select Natural Resources District Nitrogen Certification Training, and Certified Crop Adviser continuing education credits have been applied for. Questions or accommodation requests can be directed to the event coordinator listed on the registration page. This program supports informed decision making and long-term sustainability across Nebraska agriculture.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-songbird839