New National Conservation Buffer Council Formed

Group aims to promote no-till farming practices and reduce nitrogen loss

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:26am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A highly textured, abstract painting in soft greens, browns, and blues, featuring sweeping geometric shapes and organic botanical forms that conceptually represent the complex scientific forces and natural cycles involved in sustainable no-till farming.A new council aims to help no-till farmers optimize nitrogen use and boost yields through innovative conservation practices.Omaha Today

A new National Conservation Buffer Council has been established to help promote no-till farming techniques and address the issue of nitrogen loss, which can be a significant challenge for no-till corn growers. The council will focus on strategies to improve nitrogen management and maximize yields through the use of stabilizers and other conservation practices.

Why it matters

No-till farming has become an increasingly popular method to improve soil health and reduce erosion, but it also presents unique challenges around nitrogen management. The new National Conservation Buffer Council aims to provide guidance and resources to help no-till farmers optimize their nitrogen use and boost productivity while also protecting the environment.

The details

The council was formed by a group of agronomists, farmers, and industry experts who recognized the need for a coordinated effort to address nitrogen loss in no-till systems. Key strategies the council will focus on include the use of nitrogen stabilizers, cover cropping, and strategic placement of conservation buffers to trap and recycle excess nitrogen.

  • The National Conservation Buffer Council was established in April 2026.

The players

Sam Ferguson

A customer agronomist with Dow AgroSciences in Omaha, Nebraska, who has expertise in no-till farming practices and nitrogen management.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The potential for nitrogen loss in no-till presents you with both a problem and an opportunity.”

— Sam Ferguson, Customer Agronomist, Dow AgroSciences

What’s next

The National Conservation Buffer Council plans to host a series of regional workshops and field days in 2026 to share best practices with no-till farmers across the country.

The takeaway

The formation of the National Conservation Buffer Council underscores the growing importance of sustainable farming practices like no-till and the need to develop innovative solutions to address environmental challenges like nitrogen loss. By bringing together experts and stakeholders, the council aims to empower no-till farmers to maximize productivity while also protecting natural resources.