Sound nutrient management is not limited by state boundaries.
Sound nutrient management is not limited by state boundaries. Regardless of where they live or what their state requires of farmers, farm consultants, technical service providers, professional engineers and agency staff members can acquire the necessary skills to develop Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMPs) during a November 7-9, 2006 training program being held at the Holiday Inn in Lima, Ohio.
“Any livestock producer who wants EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program) cost-share funds will have to complete a CNMP, so this training will be useful for plan providers from any state,” says Natalie Rector, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension nutrient management specialist and the course coordinator.
MSU Extension, Ohio State University (OSU) Extension and Purdue Extension—along with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)—are working together to provide CNMP development training. The program will equip participants to educate farmers about how CNMPs can minimize the environmental impacts of animal operations and how they can use manure nutrients for crop production.
During the three-day class, instructors will provide practical, hands-on instruction and tips for successful plan development. All of the components required by the NRCS for producers to qualify for EQIP cost-share funds will be covered. A sample dairy CNMP will be available for review.
The class will run from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm each day. Participants can receive certified crop advisor continuing education credits. National NRCS approval is pending.
The registration fee, which includes materials, breaks and lunch each day, is $375 until October 6. After that date the fee will be $450. There will be no on-site registration.
For more details or to register, call Natalie Rector at 269-781-0908 or Greg La Barge at OSU Extension at 419-337-9210.
