The Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) Program is a new incentive initiative launched in early 2026 as a pilot by the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment (DWEE) in partnership with the state’s Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) and funded by the Nebraska Corn Board. It encourages corn producers to improve nitrogen use efficiency, accounting for nitrogen supplied through residual soil nitrogen, organic matter, irrigation water, legumes and manure. The program offers $15 per acre (up to 160 acres per application) for those achieving an NUE score of 1.0 or lower during the 2026 growing season. The program aims to challenge growers to reduce nitrogen inputs, delivering economic benefits to farmers through lower costs and environmental gains by minimizing excess nitrogen that contributes to groundwater concerns. This program builds on prior efforts including the Nitrogen Reduction Incentive Act (NiRIA) and aligns with broader goals of sustainable agriculture in Nebraska’s intensive corn production systems.