The eligibility requirements of the Nitrous Oxide Emissions Reduction Protocol (NERP) are designed according to the criteria of the Alberta Offsets System and Canada's Offset System. The scope of the NERP is limited to (1) on-farm reductions of (2) emissions associated with quantification categories fertilizer, manure, residues, and irrigation. The options for baseline scenario and baseline period are presented. The justification for the additionality or Incrementality of the comprehensive 4R N management plan is described. The projects in the NERP are: (1) compared to the baseline scenario based on emissions per unit mass of each crop; (2) based on evidence of the implementation of a 4R NITROGEN stewardship plan; (3) quantified according to the level of complexity of the BMPs; and (4) include reductions achieved by growing pulses. The key to the implementation of verifiable reduction projects under the NERP is the design of a demonstrable accurate 4R N stewardship plan, as assured by (1) general guidance in the NERP confirmed by third party verification, (2) detailed design instructions in the NERP, (3) conformity with a recommended predictive model, or (4) retaining services of an approved consulting professional. The Focus Sessions of the Consultation Workshop will finalize and approve the NERP elements recommended in the Science Discussion Document, or adapt alternative
