Iowa landowners looking to enhance their knowledge about soil health and conservation have a new opportunity through a program offered by Iowa State University Extension. The program aims to connect landowners with experts in conservation, agronomy, finance, and legal matters to help them improve their farming practices. Specifically targeting landowners in the Des Moines River watershed, the program is designed to serve as a valuable resource for those looking to make a positive impact on the environment and their communities.
The first installment of the program is happening this year and requires participants to commit to attending six educational workshops held from June to August. Workshops will focus on a variety of conservation practices like planting cover crops, reducing tillage, and utilizing perennials, as well as ways to obtain financial incentives for conservation efforts. Additionally, there will be a legal workshop addressing topics such as lease structures, taxes, and cost-sharing agreements.
Recognizing that transitioning to conservation-focused land management involves various challenges, the program offers a communication workshop to help participants effectively discuss conservation practices with family members, tenants, and other stakeholders. The goal is to provide participants with the necessary tools and support to navigate the financial, legal, and relational aspects of conservation.
Workshops will be held in central or north-central Iowa and will last between two to three hours each. Interested landowners can apply for the program by completing a short survey available on the ISU Extension website by the April 19 deadline. For more information about the program
