NRCS is planning to replace the Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE2) with WEPP, the Water Erosion Prediction Project model, possibly in the next six months. This change will impact livestock owners who are required to submit manure management plans (MMPs) or nutrient management plans (NMPs) to DNR. Currently, RUSLE2 is required in MMPs and NMPs as part of the Phosphorus Index.
Once NRCS begins using WEPP, the DNR plans to accept plans using either RUSLE2 or WEPP during a transition period. After the transition period ends, all plans will need to be updated with WEPP. It is anticipated that training opportunities for MMP preparers will be available during the transition period. Stay tuned for more developments.