A Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) is a document that outlines the planned use and management of land taking into account nutrient sources available such as manure, legumes, organic waste and commercial fertilizers to supply the essential plant nutrients to crops and pastures. They are used to evaluate the impact of the planned land use and management on potential soil erosion and surface water quality.  Farmers are encouraged to learn to write and follow a NMP for their farm because it often increases a farms profitability through improved nutrient management and cropping systems.

A 2012 study of over 250 farms in Wisconsin with NMPs found that 69% of the farms saved money, with the average of about $18/ acre. Over half of the farms reduced their nitrogen and phosphorus applications.  These reduced applications brought no change in corn yields in 74% of the farms.  18% of farms reported an increased corn yield. 

Fall crop prices are projected to be lower than the cost of inputs this spring and summer. This means that farmers are probably planning to lose money putting in a crop in 2026.  Creating a NMP is a good way to make sure the crops needs are met with the least amount of inputs possible. The NMP is created in SnapPlus Version 3, which is web based and free to use.

The Extension Green County and Green County Land and Water Conservation Department have teamed up to offer classes to farmers wanting to learn how to write their own plan or know what is in a plan.  The classes are free and will be held Fridays, February 13th and 20th from 1 until 3 pm at the conference room at the Extension Office in Monroe.  Farmers should register with Jordyn Sattler at jordyn.sattler@wisc.edu or 608-328-9440, or Tonya Gratz at Tonya.Gratz@wi.nacdnet.net or 608-325-4195 EXT:2684.  These classes are required to be certified to write your farm’s NMP. Class size is limited to 10 farmers.