Nutrient Management Initiative (NMI)
(d) $1,125,000 the first year and $1,125,000 the second year are for technical assistance, research, and demonstration projects on proper implementation of best management practices and more precise information on nonpoint contributions to impaired waters. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2020.
Measurable outcomes will be reported at the end of the fiscal year
M.L. 2013: (d) $1,500,000 the first year and $1,500,000 the second year are for research, pilot projects, and technical assistance on proper implementation of best management practices and more precise information on nonpoint contributions to impaired waters. This appropriation is available until June 30, 2018.
A total of 166 field trials were conducted in 2015. This included nitrogen rate (113), nitrogen stabilizer product (17), and nitrogen timing (34) trials. One field trial evaluated nitrogen source and one evaluated the use of cover crops.
A total of 89 farmers and 39 crop advisers participated.
The Minnesota Nutrient Management Initiative (NMI) was developed to help farmers and crop advisers evaluate management decisions using the farmer's actual field conditions.Participating farmers work with a crop adviser to set up field trials. After completing plot harvest and submitting the required forms, farmers and crop advisers are reimbursed for their time and will receive a summary and analysis of their results. .Field trials available in 2016 and 2017:Nitrogen rate trialsNitrogen timing trialsNitrogen stabilizer product trialsNitrogen source trialsNitrogen rate after manure trialsFor more information, please visit the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Clean Water Fund web page.
Results and information from these field trials will:Assist farmers and crop advisers in evaluating current nutrient management practices versus alternative practice they would like to try on their farmProvide an opportunity to compare different nutrient management practices and evaluate economic outcomesAssist participants in evaluating practices which may help reduce nitrate losses from their fields