The Nutrient Management Program supports responsible nutrient use and water quality protection across Arkansas. The program includes certification for nutrient planners and applicators, compliance activities, and training opportunities for landowners, farmers, and professionals involved in nutrient application.
What is a Nutrient Management Plan? A Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) is a document approved by a conservation district board that helps landowners manage nutrient sources, such as commercial fertilizer, litter, or sludge, effectively and safely. These plans are designed to improve soil fertility while protecting Arkansas’s water resources.
Note: Only Certified Nutrient Planners may prepare approved plans.
Who Needs a Nutrient Management Plan? You are required by law to have a nutrient management plan if you apply litter, sewage sludge, or commercial fertilizer in an area designated as a Nutrient Surplus Area. Use of a plan is voluntary outside of these areas.
What is a Nutrient Surplus Area? A Nutrient Surplus Area is a region identified by the Arkansas General Assembly as having excessive concentrations of one or more nutrients, where unrestricted application could harm soil health and state waters.
How Do I Get a Nutrient Management Plan? Contact your local conservation district for assistance. Plans may be developed by district staff or private certified planners.
Nutrient Management Planner Certification
This certification ensures that individuals preparing nutrient management plans are qualified to do so based on science-based standards and regulatory requirements.
Anyone who writes NMPs for landowners applying litter or commercial fertilizer in Nutrient Surplus Areas needs this certification.
Requirements:
- Submit an application
- Attend the Certified Nutrient Planner training course (provided by the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service)
- Pass the certification exam
- Pay a $100 certification fee and a $25 testing fee
Program Contact: Megan Perkins
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (501) 682-3968
Nutrient Management Applicator Certification
This program certifies individuals who apply nutrients to land, ensuring that nutrients are used efficiently and safely.
Private Applicator Certification
For individuals applying nutrients to their own land or land under their control.
Requirements:
- Submit an application
- Attend the Certified Private Applicator training
- Pay a $30 certification fee
Commercial Applicator Certification
For individuals applying nutrients on land they do not own, typically for hire.
Requirements:
- Submit an application
- Attend the Certified Commercial Applicator training
- Pass the certification exam
- Pay a $60 certification fee and a $25 testing fee
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need certification if I’m applying nutrients on 2.5 acres or more in a Nutrient Surplus Area? Yes. You must either be certified or hire someone who is.
What’s the difference between Private and Commercial Applicators?
- A Private Applicator applies nutrients on their own land.
- A Commercial Applicator is hired to apply nutrients on land they do not own or control.
Program Contact: Monica Hancock
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (479) 250-7444
Nutrient Management Training
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, offers required training for both Nutrient Management Planners and Applicators. These trainings ensure that nutrients are applied effectively, responsibly, and in accordance with Arkansas law.
Nutrient Management Plan Writing Certification (Planner Training)
This training prepares individuals to develop nutrient management plans that optimize crop production while minimizing nutrient loss to groundwater and surface water.
Certification Requirements
To become a Certified Nutrient Management Planner, applicants must:
- Submit a completed application form
- Attend the Certified Nutrient Planner training course offered by the Cooperative Extension Service
- Pass the certification exam
- Submit a $100 certification fee
Nutrient Management Applicator Certification Training
Training is offered for both Private and Commercial applicators:
Private Applicator Training
For those applying nutrients to their own land or land they manage.
Requirements:
- Submit an application form
- Attend the Certified Private Applicator training course (provided by CES)
- Submit a $30 certification fee
Commercial Applicator Training
For individuals applying nutrients to land they do not own, typically under contract.
Requirements:
- Submit an application form
- Attend the Certified Commercial Applicator training course (provided by CES)
- Pass the certification exam
- Submit a $60 certification fee
- Submit a $25 testing fee
How To Register
To register for any training or ask questions about upcoming courses, contact:
Monica Hancock
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (479) 250-7444