SCOTTSBLUFF, Nebraska -- The North Platte Natural Resources District (NRD) is excited to announce a unique opportunity for area agriculture producers to attend a Nutrient Management Workshop featuring renowned agricultural experts Damian Mason, Temple Rhodes, and Tommy Roach. The event will take place on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, at the Gering Civic Center in Gering, Nebraska.

This workshop will focus on innovative nutrient management strategies that improve crop yields while protecting vital natural resources, including groundwater and surface water quality.

Meet the Presenters

• Damian Mason – Damian combines a deep farming background with business expertise. Raised on a dairy farm, he now owns and manages 300 acres of farmland and timberland. A Purdue University graduate with a degree in Agricultural Economics, Damian is the host of The Business of Agriculture and Do Business Better podcasts, as well as Cutting the Curve with XtremeAg.farm, a resource for forward-thinking farmers.
• Temple Rhodes – A seventh-generation farmer from Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Temple manages Chestnut Manor Farms, a 6,000-acre no-till operation producing soybeans, corn, and wheat. Known for his innovative farming practices in the face of heavy environmental regulations and the challenges of the Chesapeake Watershed, Temple brings a fresh perspective to nutrient management and sustainability.
• Tommy Roach – As Vice President of Product Development and Technical Services for Nachurs Alpine Solutions, Tommy focuses on enhancing crop production through nutrient efficiency and stress mitigation. He holds a Master’s degree in Crop Physiology from Texas Tech University and has spent decades advancing agricultural practices.

What to Expect
The workshop will offer valuable insights into effective nutrient management and its impact on both economic success and natural resource stewardship. Key topics include:

• Optimizing Nutrient Management Practices: Feeding crops for maximum yield without compromising water quality.
• Soil Health: Interpreting soil tests and making informed decisions.
• Pest and Disease Control: Strategies for managing weeds, insects, nematodes, and other crop threats.
• Innovations in Nitrogen Replacement Biologicals: Exploring sustainable alternatives.

Additionally, North Platte NRD staff will provide an update on nutrient management efforts within the District and discuss how best management practices align with statutory requirements to protect groundwater quality.

Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
• Location: Gering Civic Center, Gering, Nebraska
• Doors Open: 8 AM
• Presentations Begin: 9 AM
• Cost: FREE – Lunch will be provided.

The North Platte NRD invites all producers to join this educational and collaborative event. This is a great opportunity to gain practical knowledge, network with peers, and explore solutions that balance productivity and sustainability.