CONSERVATION COMPASS > FUNDING

Iowa Nitrogen Initiative Trials

Modified On
April 2, 2026

This is a program that provides free on-farm nitrogen trials so that farmers can better understand their fields and optimum nitrogen rates. With technical support, you’ll test 4 or 5 rates on 5-10 acres. This also contributes to a statewide tool called N-FACT.

Info at a Glance

Lead Organization

Iowa State University Dept of Agronomy

Funding Source

Private

Agronomist Support?

Technical support provided

Eligibility:

On corn fields only // Must use variable rate prescription to apply synthetic nitrogen. // Must have well calibrated yield monitor

Location

Statewide

Contract Length

Must follow through with application and reporting

Deadline

Before your typical N application timing

Sign-up Process

You fill out a form to indicate your interest. https://form.jotform.com/231556290839060 INI staff will then help you deisgn the trial and input variable rate data. After harvest, you’ll receive a report showing optimum nitrogen rate, your yields at optimum, and nitrogen use efficiency. If you decide to include a zero rate trial, you’ll get free soil testing results as part of your final report.

Pros and Cons

  • This program helps researchers improve nitrogen efficiency – good for farmers and water quality.
  • You get all the data to be able to use and analyze with your agronomist.
  • Cost share is only for zero nitrogen rate acres
  • Must have precision technology


Rates:

No cost share, except for a $600/acre payment on zero nitrogen trial locations

Notes:

The main benefit is not direct cost share, but field results that will help you reduce your N application costs while maintaining yield or ROI

Helpful Links

Program Website

CONTACT IAWA Find Conservation Agronomist Conservation Compass home

Stacks well with:

Always check with program rep before signing up for multiple programs. Learn more about stacking here.

Practical Farmers of Iowa N Rate Risk Protection Program

This program is aimed at helping farmers find their optimal and economical rate at which they can save money and increase farm resiliency. PFI offers a per-acre payment to reduce N, plus an additional payment if yields drop. But the goal is to maintain yields at lower N rate.


Learn more

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Search our Agronomist Directory.

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