By Jamie Martin
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) continues to spearhead environmental sustainability in agriculture with recent federal grants totaling $1.7 million aimed at advancing sugar beet nitrogen management and agroforestry practices.
These funds are part of the wider $90 million Conservation Innovation Grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service aimed at innovative agricultural practices.
UNL's project on sugar beet nitrogen management, supported by a $1,116,149 grant, involves collaboration with the Western Sugar Cooperative and 50 growers.
The focus is on developing best practices for nitrogen application that enhance sugar yield while promoting environmental sustainability. The grant includes incentive payments to growers, encouraging the adoption of these practices with less financial risk.
An additional $682,335 has been allocated to explore alley cropping in the Midwest, focusing on integrating trees and shrubs with crop production to improve resilience against climate threats like drought and wildfires. This project aims to demonstrate the potential of agroforestry to support sustainable land use strategies.
Through these projects, UNL not only seeks to improve agricultural practices but also to influence USDA's future guidance on conservation efforts. This strategic approach ensures that sustainability remains at the forefront of agricultural development, benefiting both producers and the broader environment.
Photo Credit: nebraska-extenstion
Categories: National