Illinois NLRS Program and Project Narratives

This site features NGO partner program and project narratives, searchable by title, date, and categories. These narratives have been reported in the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy (NLRS) annual reports and updates. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all nutrient loss-related initiatives across Illinois.

The NLRS is a statewide, collaborative effort aimed at reducing the levels of nitrogen and phosphorus entering Illinois waterways. This page specifically highlights NGO-led efforts that have contributed to the strategy since 2023.

  • Illinois Farm Bureau Nutrient Stewardship Mini‑Grant Program: 2015-16 Update

    Dec 1, 2017 12:00 pm by Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy Team2017 Biennial Report

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    Since the development of Illinois NLRS, IFB has developed several outreach and education pro grams on the nutrient loss issue, promotion of farmer-led innovation, and BMP demonstration. In doing so, IFB has built on existing momentum in its grassroots farmer membership to realize real improvements in water quality. 

    In 2016, the IFB Board of Directors dedicated $100,000 to the Nutrient Stewardship Mini-Grant pro gram to empower CFBs to implement the strategy in a meaningful way in their local areas. Fifteen projects around the state were funded, involving 30 CFBs and 73 local partners. Local partners multi plied IFB’s funding by contributing more than $100,000 in matching funds and 1,000 employee hours. County farm bureaus also contributed significant employee time. 

    As a result of these projects: 

    • 95 farmers attended nine field days. 
    • Eight BMP videos were created. 
    • Six water-testing programs were established. 
    • Three lab-based testing programs were established. 
    • Three best management structures were installed. 
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    These projects focused on educating farmers and other agriculture stakeholders about Illinois NLRS-recommended BMPs, demonstrating the nutrient benefits of using cover crops, advocating for the 4Rs, and offering farmers free, confidential water testing. 

    County farm bureaus and their farmer members learned more about which BMPs might work best in their specific area. These outreach events also provided opportunities to enhance relationships between farmers and local partners. Most importantly, the majority of projects were led by local farmers, allowing them to share their innovative ideas, successes, and talents with fellow farmers.

    In 2017, the second year of the mini-grant program, IFB renewed its commitment to advancement of nutrient stewardship through local solutions and partnerships. Funding was awarded to 18 projects in 22 counties, including partnerships with University of Illinois research stations participating in NREC-funded projects. See Figure 4.8 for a map depicting county and multi-county group CFBs participating in the mini-grant program in 2017.