Officials with the Lewis & Clark Natural Resources District (LCNRD) raise concern about the conversion of pasture and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) land to row-crop production across the district.
Land-use changes, particularly on steep slopes, significantly increase the risk of soil erosion. When these vulnerable acres are converted to crop production, excess sediment can be carried downstream, creating potential problems for neighboring landowners and degrading local waterways.
The Nebraska Erosion and Sediment Control Act (ESCA) is designed to address erosion and sediment damage caused by upstream land use. If excessive erosion or sediment deposition occurs during rainfall events, affected landowners have the right to file a complaint. If a complaint meets ESCA criteria, corrective actions, such as required crop rotation, may be enforced on the affected acres.
In addition, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) administers federal “sodbuster” provisions under the current Farm Bill. These rules require landowners to follow conservation plans that limit soil erosion. Failure to comply can result in the loss of eligibility for USDA programs, including commodity payments, Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) benefits, Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) funding, and/or USDA farm loans.
LCNRD encourages landowners to adopt conservation practices that protect soil and water resources. Effective strategies include:
- maintaining crop residue and root structure through crop rotation,
- planting cover crops to reduce erosion and improve soil health, and
- establishing permanent vegetation in concentrated flow areas.
These practices not only reduce soil loss but also improve long-term productivity and sustainability.
NRCS and LCNRD support erosion efforts by offering cost-share programs to help offset the expense of implementing soil health and erosion control practices. Additionally, LCNRD and the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission provide incentive payments for incorporating small grains into crop rotations.
Landowners interested in cover crops, small grains, or other conservation practices are encouraged to contact their local NRCS office in Cedar, Dixon, or Knox County for more information.