Producer Research Opportunities
Looking to get involved in research or community-based projects in support of soil health?
On this page you’ll find a variety of opportunities to participate in on-going activities and partnerships. Please reach out directly to the contacts provided for further information.
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If you have a project that you would like to share, please contact Ashley.Waggoner@usda.gov for more information.
Nitrogen Optimization Pilot Program
The Nitrogen Optimization Pilot Program (NOPP) was designed as a grant program to support farmer-driven, on-farm research critical to improving farm profitability and water quality through improved nitrogen management. Agricultural producers, working independently or within a group, are each eligible to receive a maximum available grant award of $40,000 to conduct a 2-year, on-farm trial related to commercial nitrogen fertilizer management.
An application period is open now through January 17, 2025. The application, Request for Proposals, & more information can be found on DATCP’s website
Reach out to Lindsey Rushford at lindsey.rushford@wisc.edu with any questions.​
Resources
Seeding rates, seeding depths, and timing of planting are among the topics discussed in this illustrated, easy-to-read guide that introduces the benefits of cover crops from UW Extension.
This tool from the Midwest Cover Crop Council can be used to determine which cover crops will help accomplish your goals while taking your location into consideration.
The Cover Crop Chart (v. 4.0) is a decision aid to help select and manage cover crops. including Information on growth cycle, relative water use, plant architecture, seeding depth, forage quality, pollination characteristics, and nutrient cycling are included for most of the 70 crop species.
Nutrient management planning helps assure that crops get the right amount of nutrients at the right time and place. The WI Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection provides links to many resources to get started with creating a plan.
This popular pocket-size, in-field reference helps readers effectively select, grow, and use cover crops in their farming systems. Topics include choosing cover crops, fitting cover crops into your system, and positive and negative effects of cover crops.