NOPP Protocols
Nitrogen Optimization Pilot Program (NOPP) Protocols
NOPP, a grant program funded by the State of Wisconsin and administered by DATCP, supports farmer-driven, on-farm research crucial to improving profitability and water quality through improved commercial nitrogen management. Available protocols are designed to support NOPP applicants, as well as anyone interested in investigating nitrogen dynamics and management on their own farm. Protocols and other technical resources developed by the UW–Madison Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences and Division of Extension.
Connect
As you develop specific project details, including your research question, treatments, and trial layout, we recommend that you connect with the UW team to develop a project that best meets your interests and goals. If you’re applying for a NOPP grant, specific project details can be discussed with UW NOPP Research Director Monica Schauer. If interested in implementing this research protocol independently on your own farm, reach out to UW-Extension On-Farm Research Coordinator Abby Augarten.
NOPP On-Farm Research Protocols
Nitrogen Rate Trial
Assess the nitrogen need of any crop by applying 4-6 nitrogen rates, typically ranging 0-250 lb N/ac. Using a replicated research design, this protocol evaluates the response of crop yield to nitrogen by utilizing a response curve to determine the agronomic and economic optimum nitrogen rate, marginal net return, nitrogen use efficiency, and potentially leachable nitrogen. Trials may incorporate another management factor (i.e. manure, cover crop, or product), allowing for comparisons of optimum nitrogen rate under each management scenario. Nitrogen rate trial designs are flexible to align with producer goals; reach out to UW staff for assistance in setting up a trial. This description aligns with NOPP Option 1.
Nitrogen Use Efficiency Assessment for Corn Grain and Silage
Assess the efficiency of N applications on a per-field basis as a valuable first step in evaluating current N fertilizer management. Metrics such as Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) and partial N balance are relatively simple and offer insights into how N is currently being managed and implications for productivity, profitability and water quality. NUE assessments utilize a 0-N test strip alongside required and optional data collection to provide an easy and effective entry-point for farmers interested in evaluating their nitrogen management. This protocol aligns with NOPP Option 2.
Manure Management Comparison Trial
Investigate manure management practices, such as manure source, application method, rate and timing, across a standard and reduced commercial nitrogen rate. Using a replicated research design, this protocol evaluates the effect of the manure management practice, nitrogen rate, and the interaction of the two on yield, marginal net return, nitrogen use efficiency, and potentially leachable nitrogen. This protocol aligns with NOPP Option 3.
Cover Crop Management Comparison Trial
Investigate the effect of cover crop management, such as species selection or termination timing, across a standard and reduced commercial nitrogen rate. Using a replicated research design, this protocol evaluates the effect of the cover crop, nitrogen rate, and the interaction of the two on yield, marginal net return, nitrogen use efficiency, and potentially leachable nitrogen. This protocol aligns with NOPP Option 3.
Nitrogen Application Timing Comparison Trial
Investigate the effect of nitrogen application timing, such as a pre-plant, sidedress, or split application, across a standard and reduced commercial nitrogen rate. Using a replicated research design, this protocol evaluates the effect of nitrogen application timing, nitrogen rate, and the interaction of the two on yield, marginal net return, nitrogen use efficiency, and potentially leachable nitrogen. This protocol aligns with NOPP Option 3.
Nitrogen Source Comparison Trial
Investigate the effect of nitrogen source, such as urea or UAN across a standard and reduced commercial nitrogen rate. Using a replicated research design, this protocol evaluates the effect of nitrogen source, nitrogen rates, and the interaction of the two on yield, marginal net return, nitrogen use efficiency, and potentially leachable nitrogen. Protocol aligns with NOPP Option 3.
Nitrogen Placement Comparison Trial
Investigate the effect of nitrogen placement, such as broadcast, Y-drop, or injection, across a standard and reduced commercial nitrogen rate. Using a replicated research design, this protocol evaluates the effect of nitrogen placement, nitrogen rate, and the interaction of the two on yield, marginal net return, nitrogen use efficiency, and potentially leachable nitrogen. This protocol aligns with NOPP Option 3.
Product Trial
Investigate the effect of a product, such as an inhibitor or biological across a standard and reduced commercial nitrogen rate. Using a replicated research design, this protocol evaluates the effect of nitrogen placement, nitrogen rate, and the interaction of the two on yield, marginal net return, nitrogen use efficiency, and potentially leachable nitrogen. This protocol aligns with NOPP Option 3.