Nebraska Master Irrigator Shop Talk

By Scout Nelson

Nebraska Extension is inviting producers, agricultural professionals, and conservation partners to take part in the 2026 Nebraska Master Irrigator Shop Talk discussions. These programs are designed as two-day, discussion-based events offered at multiple locations across the state. Each session focuses on today’s most important irrigation and nitrogen management challenges.

The Shop Talk format emphasizes producer-to-produce learning. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas with peers and industry experts while discussing ways to use resources more efficiently, improve profit margins, and support the long-term sustainability of Nebraska’s soil and water. The first day at each location will focus on irrigation management, while the second day will concentrate on nitrogen management. Profitability and regenerative agriculture will be common themes throughout the program.

“The strength of these discussions comes from bringing experts from across agriculture to the same table,” said Crystal Powers, Water and Cropping Systems educator with Nebraska Extension. “By connecting farmers with conservation partners, researchers and ag businesses, we create a space where real-world experience, science and innovation work together to solve the irrigation and nitrogen challenges facing Nebraska agriculture.”

Discussions will focus on practical strategies such as improving the performance of existing irrigation and nutrient management equipment, saving water and reducing pumping costs, improving soil health, and adopting regenerative agriculture practices. Other topics include reducing fertilizer losses, managing in season nitrogen challenges, using support tools and emerging technologies, learning from on farm research, and connecting with incentive and cost share opportunities.

“We are armed with so much intelligence, science and research that building a trust model is what comes next, and I think that’s where Master Irrigator will reside,” said Roric Paulman, a grower from western Nebraska.

Sessions will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Central Time at the following locations: Grand Island on Feb. 25 and March 2, Beatrice on Feb. 27 and March 18, Norfolk on March 6 and March 11, and North Platte on March 13 for nitrogen only.

The event is sponsored by the University of Nebraska Extension, USDA NRCS, Nebraska Water Center, and the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute. Lunch will be provided through the support of participating ag business partners. The program qualifies for select NRD Nitrogen Certification Training, and CCA Continuing Education Credits have been applied for.

Registration by city is now open and closes Feb. 20. Register online at:
https://water.unl.edu/register-2026-nebraska-master-irrigator-discussions/

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