Iowa landowners who want to improve their farms’ sustainability and contribute to the local environment have a unique opportunity through Iowa State University Extension. The program connects landowners with experts in conservation, agronomy, finance, and law to help them implement better farming practices. Specifically targeted at landowners in the Des Moines River watershed, the program aims to enhance their conservation efforts for the benefit of the community.
The inaugural year of the program requires participants to attend six in-person educational workshops from June to August. Topics covered include planting cover crops, reducing tillage, using perennials, obtaining financial incentives, lease structures, taxes, and communication strategies for discussing conservation practices with family members, tenants, and others involved in farming operations. Each workshop will last between two to three hours and will take place in central or north-central Iowa.
ISU Extension recognizes that implementing conservation practices can be complex and challenging. Landowners may need support navigating the financial, legal, and relational aspects of making these changes. To apply for the program by April 19th interested individuals must complete a short survey on the ISU Extension website.
For more information about this innovative program contact Catherine DeLong at crdelong@iastate.edu or Julia Baker at jaclymer@iastate.edu. By participating in this program, Iowa landowners can gain valuable knowledge and resources that will make their farming practices more sustainable while contributing to a healthier environment for their community.
