Farmers throughout Butler County can submit an application for nutrient management planning, manure storage, barnyard stabilization, grazing systems, stream fencing, milkhouse filters and other Best Management conservation practices.

Agriculture producers are encouraged to develop nutrient management plans. A nutrient management plan, particularly for livestock operations, will include manure nutrients.

Planning for the best utilization of all available nutrients - whether from manure, soil organic matter, legumes or fertilizers - will save money as well as reduce risks to water quality.

The objective of nutrient management is to use nutrients (mainly nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium) wisely for optimum economic benefit to the farmer while minimizing impact on the environment.

A Growing Greener grant will provide for up to 75 percent of the cost of nutrient management planning. The application is required to have an approved nutrient management plan and approved conservation plan to qualify for Best Management Practices funding.

All cost-shared Best Management Practices must meet Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA) Field Office Technical Guide standards and specifications. The Natural Resources Conservation Service will provide an estimated cost of the project with design. The maximum is $25,000 cost-share funding for each applicant. The Growing Greener Grant would provide funding for up to 75 percent of the cost.

There is no minimum acreage required for the projects. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of 10 animal units. Eligible livestock may be defined as beef and dairy cattle, swine, sheep and poultry used for commercial food or human consumption or kept for producing food or fiber.

Farmers are advised to contact the Butler County Conservation District Office to discuss funding for a Nutrient Management Plan or Best Management Practices funded through the Growing Greener grant. Applications will be accepted until July 21. The Conservation District will visit sites and select projects based on a score sheet.