Frequently Asked Questions

What is it?
This program provides training and certifies the competence of individuals to apply nutrients from litter or commercial fertilizer to land within Nutrient Surplus Areas.

What is a Nutrient Surplus Area?
A Nutrient Surplus Area (NSA) is an area that has been designated by the Arkansas General Assembly as having such high concentrations of one or more nutrients that continued unrestricted application of the nutrient could negatively impact soil fertility and waters of the state.

How do I know if my area is within a Nutrient Surplus Area?
This map depicts the areas declared by the General Assembly to be NSAs. You may also view a textual description at Ark. Code Ann. § 15-20-1104.

Does it affect me?
If you plan to fertilize an area of 2.5 acres or more with litter, sewage sludge, or commercial fertilizer, you will either have to become certified as a Private Applicator or hire a Commercial Applicator to apply nutrients to your acreage for you.

What is the difference between a Private and Commercial Applicator?
A Private Applicator is eligible to apply nutrients to land owned or controlled by him. A Commercial Applicator is certified to apply nutrients to land outside his ownership or control.

What do I have to do to become certified?
To become a Private Applicator, you must submit an application, attend a training course, and submit a certification fee of $30. To become a Commercial Applicator, you must submit an application and a certification fee of $60, attend a training course, pass a test, and pay a testing fee of $25.

Who should I contact if I have further questions?

Monica Hancock, Environmental Program Coordinator
Arkansas Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Division
10421 W. Markham Street
Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone: 479 250-7444
Email: Monica Hancock

Reference: Title XXI