By Scout Nelson
In north-central Nebraska, excessive nitrogen use on cornfields led to nitrate contamination in groundwater, prompting the Lower Niobrara Natural Resources District (NRD) to address this issue.
A local analysis found that 91% of fields were overusing nitrogen fertilizer, risking groundwater safety without increasing crop yields. This led the NRD to educate farmers on optimized fertilizer use, ultimately reducing the percentage of over-applied fields.
By 2021, fields exceeding recommended nitrogen levels dropped to 66%, with application rates falling closer to recommended levels. This successful educational approach is now expanding statewide, driven by the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts.
This fall, a new app called “Producer Connect” was launched to make it easier for farmers to track fertilizer use. Developed by Longitude 103, the app allows farmers to compare their nitrogen use with local averages and see potential cost savings by reducing excess nitrogen. Early estimates suggest farmers could save up to $40 an acre, and some areas are already seeing improvements in nitrate levels.
Additionally, the Nebraska Legislature recently passed the Nitrogen Reduction Incentive Act, providing financial support to farmers who voluntarily reduce nitrogen use. This act encourages farmers to apply up to 15% less fertilizer, with incentives aimed at reducing nitrate contamination statewide.
While progress is being made, the impact of nitrogen overuse will take time to reverse. Nebraska’s efforts through education, technology, and legislation mark an important step toward safeguarding water quality and promoting sustainable farming practices across the state.
Photo Credits:gettyimages-mrdoomits
Categories: Nebraska, Energy, General