The Illinois Nutrient Research & Education Council (NREC) has released the 2013 NREC Annual Report, which summarizes the nutrient research and outreach efforts funded by NREC in the calendar year 2013, the first year of the program’s existence.

The mission of the NREC is to “pursue nutrient research and provide educational programs to ensure the adoption and implementation of practices that optimize nutrient use efficiency, ensure soil fertility and address environmental concerns with regard to fertilizer use.”  The program utilizes funds from 75 cent per ton assessment on bulk fertilizer sold in Illinois, and the 13 member NREC Council solicits, reviews, and funds projects that fulfill the mission of NREC.

As outlines in the 2013 annual report, the NREC allocated $1,477,572 toward seven projects that address nutrient utilization, water quality and educational needs regarding fertilizer use.  To view the 2013 annual report, which is a summary compilation of the projects, please go to www.illinoisnrec.org.  The NREC website also features the full project reports and additional information on the structure and purpose of the Council.

In 2014, the NREC is investing $2.55 million in additional nutrient research and outreach projects, many of which specifically to address the critical need to reduce nutrient losses from the agricultural sector.  An outline of the 2014 projects is also available on the NREC website.