A financial incentive for the utilization of soil moisture sensors on irrigated fields for more efficient irrigation use and improved nutrient management. 

Eligible Participants: Producers with irrigated fields that have certified irrigated acres in the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District. Irrigated fields that are currently using, or have previously used, soil moisture sensors are not eligible for this program. 

Eligible Components: Lease of soil moisture sensor equipment and subscription of service. 

Requirements: 

  1. Producer agrees to utilize sensors at the locations funded by this program for a minimum of 3 years.
  2. Producer agrees to provide shared data rights to the Lower Elkhorn NRD for locations where funding is provided for a minimum of 3 years.
  3. Producer attends 1 pre irrigation season educational meeting designed to acquaint the producer with the soil moisture sensor equipment, and to educate them on the interpretation and application of the data. This meeting will be organized by the dealer/service provider. This educational meeting must be preapproved by the District prior to approving the application.
  4. Producer attends 1 end of season recap meeting. This meeting will be organized by the dealer/service provider. This recap meeting must be preapproved by the District prior to approving the application. 

Cost Share: Full cost of first year lease/subscription up to $800. There will be a maximum, one-time payment of $2,500 per producer