Land Conservation

Benefits of a NMP

SnapPlus was (and continues to be) developed by the University of Madison for farmers and planners to get a more complete view of where nutrients on their farm are going. This program considers the existing and added nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels from the soil, synthetic fertilizers, and manure that is planned to be applied at different times of the year. It also considers the different types of crops and tillage equipment used on the fields.

nutrients being used up the plant

Using SnapPlus allows farmers to be compliant with 590 standards that are set up by the NRCS and permits people who are interested in the Farmland Preservation program to enroll in it.

To participate in SnapPlus here are some of the requirements:

Fertilizers used previous year and rate applied
A crop rotation plan in place
Soil tests (from last year and or past years)
Tillage methods used
Manure method and rate applied per acre

After a NMP is developed it should be updated every year. The Land Conservation Department requires farmers participating in various programs to submit a Nutrient Management Plan Checklist annually each spring. Soil test are required every 4 years but can be updated more frequently if desired.

Did you know that SnapPlus tracks the Tolerable Soil Loss (T value)? The tolerable soil loss is the annual erosion from wind, water, raindrop impact that happens in a field that could affect the yield and health of the crop.

Source: Iowa State University; Extension and Outreach