Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans (CNMP)
A CNMP is a conservation plan developed for livestock operations that addresses how manure and other nutrients will be handled, stored, and applied to protect water quality and support healthy crop production.
CNMPs are developed by USDA‑NRCS certified planners and follow federal planning standards.
A Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan includes:
• Manure and wastewater handling and storage
• Land application planning
• Nutrient budgeting
• Soil and manure testing
• Erosion control and conservation practices
• Emergency spill response planning
A CNMP helps livestock producers improve environmental stewardship while maximizing nutrient value for crop production.
A CNMP is typically required for:
• Confined livestock operations
• Farms participating in NRCS financial assistance programs
• Producers seeking EQIP funding for waste storage or other practices
• Operations needing improved nutrient or manure management strategies
If you are unsure whether your farm needs a CNMP, we can help you evaluate your operation.
A CNMP helps improve:
• Soil health
• Water quality
• Nutrient efficiency
• Compliance with state and federal standards
• Long‑term farm sustainability
It can also reduce input costs by ensuring manure nutrients are used effectively.
- Nutrient Management PlanSoil tests, manure tests, nutrient budgeting, crop rotations
- Manure & Wastewater HandlingStorage structures, containment, daily handling
- Land Application ManagementApplication rates, setbacks, timing, weather risk
- Erosion Control PracticesGrassed waterways, cover crops, filter strips, no‑till
- Recordkeeping RequirementsManure application logs, inspections, maintenance
- Emergency Response PlanningSpill protocols, contact information, containment measures
Our office partners with NRCS to help producers connect with certified CNMP planners.
Steps:
- Contact our office to request a CNMP referral
- We help you determine whether you qualify for NRCS assistance
- You are matched with a certified planner
- The planner visits your farm and develops your CNMP
- You receive a complete plan tailored to your farm’s needs
* * The development of a CNMP may take several months.
CNMP development and certain waste‑management practices may be eligible for funding through:
• EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program)
• Other NRCS cost‑share programs
We can assist you with navigating the application and eligibility process.
You can download the information needed to start your CNMP here:
Information Needed for a CNMP
