How can producers maximize crop yields while reducing nutrient losses? The annual Nebraska 4Rs Nutrient Stewardship Field Day on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC) near Mead will showcase research-driven strategies and hands-on demonstrations focused on phosphorus, potassium, sulfur and nitrogen management. Attendees will gain practical insights to improve profitability while protecting Nebraska’s water resources.
Bringing 4R Nutrient Stewardship to the Field
The 2026 4Rs field day will run from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning with registration and a light breakfast, followed by morning presentations and afternoon field demonstrations.
The program focuses on the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework — using the right source, right rate, right time, and right place — to improve nutrient use efficiency, sustain crop yields, and reduce environmental losses, particularly nitrate leaching.
Morning Sessions: Research and Insights
The morning program will feature presentations from University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) faculty, state agency partners, and regional experts addressing key nutrient management topics:
- Phosphorus and potassium management in corn and soybean systems
- Global insights into 4R nitrogen management and nitrate reduction
- Nitrogen efficiency and statewide nutrient management programs
- Sulfur management in Midwest cropping systems
The session will also include interactive activities and opportunities for discussion among participants. See the full agenda on the field day page.
Afternoon Field Demonstrations
The afternoon session will provide hands-on learning opportunities in the field, allowing participants to observe nutrient management practices in action and discuss results directly with researchers and extension specialists.
Field demonstrations will be offered at two locations:
- Location A (1 hour): Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) Management
- Location B (1 hour): Sulfur (S) and Nitrogen (N) Management
These demonstrations will highlight how nutrient management decisions influence corn yield, nutrient efficiency and environmental outcomes under real-world conditions.
Practical Takeaways for Crop Production
Efficient nutrient management is critical for maintaining productivity while addressing water quality challenges across Nebraska. This field day offers an opportunity for producers, crop consultants, agronomists and industry professionals to:
- Learn the latest research-based nutrient management strategies
- Understand tradeoffs between yield, efficiency and environmental protection
- See practical applications of 4R principles in the field
- Connect with extension specialists, researchers and fellow producers
Certified Crop Advisers (CCAs) can earn 4.5 continuing education units (CEUs) for attending the event.
This field day is free to attend thanks to support from many sponsors, but registration is required for planning purposes. For more information, contact Javed Iqbal, nutrient management specialist, 402-472-1432, or Aaron Nygren, extension educator, 402-624-8030.
ENREEC is located at 1071 County Road G, Ithaca, NE 68033.
