A Nutrient Management Plan (NMP) is a comprehensive roadmap for managing the fertility of crop and forage systems in a way that sustains yields while protecting soil and water resources. The process begins with detailed field assessments, including soil sampling, manure and compost testing, and irrigation water quality analysis. These results establish a baseline of nutrient availability and potential constraints such as salinity, pH, or trace element imbalances. Crop nutrient requirements are then calculated based on realistic yield goals, and all nutrient sources are accounted for—commercial fertilizer, manure, compost, irrigation water, crop residues, and natural soil reserves.

From this foundation, a nutrient budget is developed for each field, balancing inputs against expected crop uptake to avoid over-application and nutrient losses. Timing and placement strategies are tailored to crop growth stages, irrigation schedules, and local environmental conditions, ensuring nutrients are available when plants need them most. The plan also addresses conservation practices that reduce runoff and leaching, such as cover crops, buffer zones, and controlled irrigation management. Importantly, nutrient management plans include both in-season recommendations and post-season evaluations, so producers can track efficiency, fine-tune inputs, and remain compliant with regulatory and NRCS conservation standards. Together, these steps provide farmers with a practical, science-based tool that improves profitability while protecting long-term soil health and water quality.