Nebraska farmers and agriculture advisors joined a new education series designed to improve irrigation farming operations through efficiency, increased profitability, and strengthening long‑term water stewardship. The Nebraska Master Irrigatorprogram brings together producers, agricultural advisors, and industry partners to support data‑driven decision-making that reduces groundwater pumping and nitrate losses while positioning farms to have a competitive edge.
A Program Built Around Practical, Data‑Driven Learning
The Nebraska Master Irrigator program focuses on practices that help producers manage water and nutrients more efficiently and profitably. Learning is structured around hands‑on activities, peer‑to‑peer discussion, and real‑world data from Nebraska farms.
Program events were hosted across Nebraska in Beatrice, Norfolk, Grand Island, and North Platte, making participation accessible across the state. A signature component of the program is a two‑day challenge format focused on irrigation and nitrogen management.
During the Irrigation Challenge, participants competed in a virtual version of TAPS (Testing Ag Performance Solutions), making in‑season irrigation and nitrogen decisions. Teams were evaluated on efficient yield production and profitability. Sessions included discussions on reducing electricity costs, understanding groundwater level trends, available Natural Resources Districts (NRD) incentive programs, and strategies for getting the most return from every inch of irrigation water. Participants also explored the latest industry tools designed to apply the right amount of water at the right time.
The Nitrogen Challenge addressed rising fertilizer costs and in‑season nitrogen management. Participants examined satellite‑based sensors and other technologies for monitoring crop nitrogen needs, reviewed data from farmer‑led trials across the Nebraska On‑Farm Research Network, and heard updates on nitrate levels from NRDs. Interactive discussions explored how water movement through soil affects groundwater quality, while a conservation incentives panel featuring NRDs, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and The Nature Conservancy highlighted resources available to support management changes. Regenerative agriculture practices and their impacts on both water and nitrogen were also a key focus.
These activities allow producers to test management decisions in real time and compare outcomes related to yield, profitability, and resource efficiency.
Strong Participation and Measurable Impact
The Nebraska Master Irrigator program has already demonstrated meaningful impact. A total of 158 participants—including producers, agricultural consultants, industry professionals, conservation partners, NGOs, and university staff—took part in 2026 challenges. Post‑event surveys showed significant gains in both knowledge (4.2 out of 5) and motivation to try new practices (4.4 out of 5).
Collectively, participants manage more than 350,000 acres and influence management decisions on several million acres across Nebraska. Participants estimated the value of what they learned at an average of $12 per acre, with some reporting values as high as $30 per acre. Notably, 95% of participants reported having an intended follow‑up action, ranging from management practice changes to participation in TAPS or on‑farm research. Among returning participants from the previous year, 100% reported implementing at least one follow-up action.
Looking Ahead
By combining peer learning, on‑farm data, and strong public‑private partnerships, the Nebraska Master Irrigator program is helping producers strengthen profitability while protecting Nebraska’s vital water resources. As participation continues to grow, the program is poised to play an important role in advancing sustainable, resilient agriculture across the state.
Led by Nebraska Extension, the Nebraska Water Center, and the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, and supported through a five‑year technical assistance agreement with USDA NRCS, the program also benefits from strong industry sponsorships and partnerships. Nebraska joins a growing national network of Master Irrigator programs operating in ten states,many located across the Ogallala Aquifer region. Locally, collaboration among NRDs, NRCS, and more than a dozen industry partners helps ensure the program is responsive to Nebraska’s water and nutrient management challenges.
