One Month Left to Apply for Phosphorus Reduction Funding听
Year 2 of the听听is coming to a close this month. Farmers who have kept their soil covered this winter by using cover crops or reduced tillage practices are encouraged to听submit听their application before the deadline (February 28, 2026).听
The application process is quick and straightforward, and funding is still available!听
The program supports on-farm practices that reduce phosphorus losses to local waterways. Eligible practices include cover crops, reduced tillage, 4R nutrient stewardship, manure management improvements, and cost-shared funding for a range of additional best management practices.听
There are many practical ways to reduce phosphorus losses, and producers can choose the practices that best fit their operation. Planting cover crops and using reduced tillage help protect soil from erosion and keep soil-bound phosphorus in place. Following 4R nutrient stewardship practices ensure fertilizer is applied at the right rate, source, time, and place, reducing excess phosphorus and runoff risk. Applying manure to fields with lower soil phosphorus levels can further reduce losses. Projects such as windbreaks, riparian buffers, and wetlands also help slow runoff, hold water on the landscape, and naturally filter out nutrients before they reach waterways.
The UTRCA is happy to be working with local landowners to support practical, farm-driven solutions that protect soil health and improve water quality across the watershed.
Farmers interested in participating are encouraged to apply, before the end of the month, to take advantage of available funding.听
Visit the Phosphorus Reduction Program page for more information, or contact听Chris Van Esbroeck, UTRCA Agricultural Stewardship Specialist.
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