For Immediate Release
NORTH PLATTE, NEB.–– Nebraska Master Irrigator invites farmers, agricultural professionals and conservation partners to participate in a “Shop Talk” discussion in North Platte at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center on March 13 beginning at 9 a.m.
As part of a discussion series, this program will focus on tackling today’s most pressing nitrogen management challenges.
Designed to encourage producer‑to‑producer learning, these interactive sessions will provide a forum to “talk shop” with peers and industry leaders while exploring ways to grow more with less, improve margins, and strengthen the long‑term sustainability of Nebraska’s soil and water resources.
“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.”
Participants will engage in discussions centered on practical strategies for:
• Improving soil health and adopting regenerative agriculture practices
• Reducing fertilizer losses and addressing in‑season nitrogen challenges
• Using support tools and emerging technologies
• Learning from TAPS and on‑farm research participants
• Connecting with NRD & NRCS incentive and cost‑share opportunities
Nebraska Master Irrigator invites growers to discuss nitrogen challenges in North Platte
“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.
This event is sponsored by University of Nebraska Extension, USDA-NRCS, Nebraska Water Center, and the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska. Lunch is provided thanks to the support of participating ag business partners.
The program qualifies for select Natural Resources District (NRD) Nitrogen Certification Training, and Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Continuing Education Credits have been applied for.
Registration is available on the West Central website. For registration details, additionalinformation, or accommodation requests, contact Todd Whitney at todd.whitney@unl.edu or Abia Katimbo at abia.katimbo@unl.edu.