Enrollment now open for Practical Farmers of Iowa’s N Rate Risk Protection Program
Contact: Elizabeth Wilhelm | Senior Media Relations Coordinator | (515) 232-5661 | gro.sremraflacitcarp@mlehliw.htebazile
AMES, Iowa (Aug. 6, 2026) — Nitrogen fertilizer is one of the biggest costs for many corn farmers. At the same time, Iowa continues to face water quality challenges. Practical Farmers of Iowa's N Rate Risk Protection Program helps farmers find the right nitrogen rate for their fields, lowering fertilizer costs while protecting water quality.
Enrollment is now open for Midwestern farmers who want to test lower nitrogen rates on their farms.
“Farmers shouldn't have to choose between making a profit and clean water,” says Sean Dengler, PFI's crop nutrition coordinator. "With fertilizer prices remaining high, this program helps farmers find the sweet spot for nitrogen while keeping excess out of waterways.”
Participants receive a field-specific phone call from a PFI agronomist to discuss nitrogen rates that could work for each field. They also receive $5 per acre for lowering their nitrogen rate. If a participant's yield drops below 95% of their 10-year average after lowering their nitrogen rate, they'll receive a $30 per acre payment.
The program has been successful. Over the years, only 9% of participants have qualified for a payout, meaning most farmers lowered their nitrogen rate without a yield loss large enough to trigger a payment.
"This program gave me the confidence to lower my nitrogen rate across my whole farm,” says Benjamin Storm, who farms in Dover, Minnesota. “In 2025, I raised the best corn I’ve ever grown using the lowest amount of nitrogen I’ve ever applied."
To be eligible, farmers must:
- Raise corn in 2027
- Be willing to reduce nitrogen by approximately 20 pounds per acre
- Manage conventional corn; certified organic acres are not eligible
- Farm in eligible counties in Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota or Wisconsin
Enrollment is open through April 30, 2027. Full details and the application form are available at practicalfarmers.org/n-rate-risk-protection-program.
For questions, to check eligibility or for help getting signed up, contact Chelsea Ferrie at (515) 232-5661 ext. 1040 or gro.sremraflacitcarp@nimdamraf.
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About Practical Farmers: Practical Farmers of Iowa is a nonprofit with more than 9,000 members that equips farmers to build resilient farms and communities. We create learning opportunities via farmer-led events, on-farm research and educational content through our robust network of farmers. We also provide funding and technical assistance to help farmers adopt regenerative farming practices and grow farm businesses. Our vision is an Iowa with healthy soil, healthy food, clean air, clean water, resilient farms and vibrant communities. To learn more, visit practicalfarmers.org.
