Biosolids, Technology Boost Dryland No-Till

Nebraska farmer sees benefits of no-till, terraces and nutrient-rich biosolids on his 2,000-acre farm

Apr. 18, 2026 at 9:14am

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A highly structured abstract painting in earthy tones, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circular patterns, and precise botanical spirals, conceptually representing the complex interplay of natural forces, soil conservation techniques, and precision farming technologies on a dryland farm.An abstract visualization of the intricate systems and technologies that enable sustainable dryland farming, from no-till practices to precision nutrient application.Lincoln Today

After initially hearing frustrations from early no-till adopters, Nebraska farmer Dave Nielsen decided to trust university experts and innovators in his area. Nearly two decades later, Nielsen's 2,000-acre dryland farm is reaping the benefits of no-till, including reduced erosion, moisture retention, and labor savings. Nielsen's system combines no-till, terraces, variable-rate technology, and the application of nutrient-rich 'biosolids' to produce solid yields despite frequent drought and erosion threats.

Why it matters

Nielsen's story highlights how embracing new farming practices like no-till, even in the face of early skepticism, can lead to long-term sustainability and productivity benefits for dryland farms in regions prone to drought and erosion. His experience also demonstrates the value of working with university extension and early innovators to overcome initial challenges and unlock the full potential of conservation agriculture.

The details

Nielsen turned to no-till in the early 1990s for soil conservation, moisture retention, and labor savings, after getting guidance from University of Nebraska Extension. Despite seeing some early problems like weed control from neighboring no-till farmers, Nielsen trusted the experts and innovators. Nearly two decades later, Nielsen's 2,000-acre dryland farm near Lincoln, Nebraska combines no-till, terraces, variable-rate technology, and the application of nutrient-rich 'biosolids' to produce solid yields where drought and erosion are frequent threats.

  • Nielsen began transitioning to no-till in the early 1990s.
  • Nearly 2 decades later, Nielsen's no-till system is producing solid yields.

The players

Dave Nielsen

A Nebraska farmer who operates a 2,000-acre dryland farm near Lincoln, Nebraska. He transitioned to no-till in the early 1990s and now combines it with terraces, variable-rate technology, and the application of nutrient-rich 'biosolids' to produce solid yields despite frequent drought and erosion threats.

Wayne Nielsen

Dave Nielsen's father, who was initially hesitant about the switch to no-till but has since seen the benefits on their family farm.

University of Nebraska Extension

Provided guidance and expertise that helped spur Dave Nielsen's interest in adopting no-till practices on his dryland farm.

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What they’re saying

“We have no erosion whatsoever where no-till and the terraces are combined.”

— Dave Nielsen, Farmer

“And there was the labor savings, too. It was just my Dad and I at the time we switched to no-till.”

— Dave Nielsen, Farmer

“He didn't like to ride on tractors anyway, or disc the ground black.”

— Dave Nielsen, Farmer

What’s next

As more farmers in the region adopt similar conservation agriculture practices, there may be opportunities for Nielsen and other early adopters to share their experiences and best practices through local field days or workshops organized by the University of Nebraska Extension.

The takeaway

Nielsen's story demonstrates how embracing innovative farming techniques like no-till, even in the face of initial skepticism, can lead to long-term sustainability and productivity benefits for dryland farms in drought-prone regions. His success highlights the value of collaborating with university experts and early adopters to overcome challenges and unlock the full potential of conservation agriculture.