Project Summary
The Nitrogen Optimization Pilot Program (NOPP) supports Wisconsin farmers and collaborators to investigate nitrogen use on their farms through two-year on-farm research trials, with the goal of improving nitrogen use efficiency, profitability and groundwater protection across the state.
Producers and partners can explore nitrogen-related questions most relevant to their farms. Whether identifying field-level optimum nitrogen rates with a nitrogen rate study, conducting a nitrogen use efficiency assessment, or investigating nitrogen across a management practice, there’s an option for any level of on-farm research experience.
Project Lead
NOPP is a grant program funded by the State of Wisconsin, administered by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), and supported by the University of Wisconsin.
Eligibility
Agricultural producers and those working directly with producers, including agronomists, county conservationists, nonprofit organizations and others, are encouraged to apply.
Project Close Date
The Intent to Apply must be submitted to UW by December 19, 2025 for preapproval. Final applications are due to DATCPNOPP@wisconsin.gov by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026. Grant recipients will be announced in spring 2026.
Why Collaborate?
Information gained from these projects directly benefits participating farms; supports broader learning among communities, clients and stakeholders; and contributes to statewide nitrogen recommendations.
Participating farmers and partners will receive:
- Relevant insights into nitrogen management on their farm
- Resources and technical guidance to implement on-farm nitrogen research
- Opportunities to learn from other NOPP participants and explore strategies to optimize nitrogen management
- Grant funds for materials, plant and soil analysis, participant time and mileage, farmer stipends and other miscellaneous costs. Maximum award per producer varies across project options, with the highest being $40,000/producer for Option 1.
Additional Details
In addition to nitrogen rate trials, this year’s Request for Proposals includes new opportunities for first time applicants to explore nitrogen management on their farm using simplified research approaches, including Nitrogen Use Efficiency Assessments and Nitrogen Management Comparison Trials. Each project option has specific goals and requirements for research design and data collection.
Learn More
NOPP staff from DATCP and UW will be available for applicants to ask questions, pitch research plans, and clarify ideas for their applications.
Learn more about NOPP, the application process, and details for each project option in DATCP’s Request for Proposals. Additional resources to support project development and on-farm research can be found here at UW-Madison.
Connect with us
Receive support with developing a research question and study design; using precision ag technologies; collecting, analyzing, and sharing data and results; and more.
Why on-farm research?
Farmer-driven, on-farm research is extremely valuable to inform management decisions, promote practice adoption and support the economic, environmental and social well-being of Wisconsin farmers.
Getting started
These resources will help you get started on your on-farm research journey, covering topics of developing a research question, trial design and logistics, data analysis, and more.
